Welcome to iGrow News, Your Source for the World of Indoor Vertical Farming
USDA - NIFA Conference Sept. 9 - 12, 2019
Developing sustainable and strategic plans to feed the future in the face of growing global challenges will demand interdisciplinary vision, collaboration and innovation
USDA - NIFA Conference At Biosphere 2
September 9 - 12, 2019
Developing sustainable and strategic plans to feed the future in the face of growing global challenges will demand interdisciplinary vision, collaboration and innovation. Controlled environment agriculture (CEA) implemented as fully enclosed, multi-level indoor agricultural food production systems, Vertical Farms (VF), will complement future greenhouse (GH) plant production systems and will offer innovative technological solutions for issues at the food-energy-water nexus.
The purpose of the conference is to Plan an Interdisciplinary Controlled Environment Indoor Agriculture R&D Roadmap and Coordinated Research Plan. It is supported by USDA/NIFA-AFRI program and is hosted by the Controlled Environment Agriculture Center at the University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ and Biosphere 2, Oracle, AZ
This conference (September 9 – 12) will facilitate interdisciplinary discussions centered on several major thematic R&D areas for CEA/VF/GH, each of which will interface with the others to identify cross-disciplinary areas of synergy, opportunity and need. Thematic areas include:
Economics: focus questions and discussions will include: what are good metrics of success in these systems from both industry and community perspectives? Can we develop a pipeline to quantify environmental and social benefits of these systems in a Benefit-Cost Analysis framework? How scalable are these systems? What are environmental impacts, life cycle analyses?
Engineering: focus questions and discussions will include: how to increase lighting efficacy, light use efficiency, and reduce cost? How to control and modulate CO2? How to design and enhance air circulation and to optimize HVAC? How to minimize labor input and integrate innovative automation and robotic systems? How to improve water use efficiency and cycling?
Production Systems: focus questions and discussions will include: how to manage crops to integrate with improve environmental controls, nutrient delivery and automation. How to improve plant architecture to enhance crop productivity and reduce waste? How to improve logistics and enhance labor efficiency?
Plant Breeding: focus questions and discussions will include: what makes a crop a good candidate for indoor farming/what are priority candidate crops for these systems beyond what is currently grown? What traits should be privileged in breeding programs for indoor farming? How can gene editing and genomic techniques be leveraged to integrate novel financial opportunities into these growing systems, such as increased nutritional content, enhanced water, nutrients and light use efficiencies, or pharmaceutical production? How CEA production systems can alter the structure of microbial communities associated with plants, growing media, and determine how the alterations affect plant nutrient and water uptake and utilization?
Pest and Disease Management: focus questions and discussions will include: what are the major viral, fungal, and insect pathogens in these systems and how are they best addressed? Integrate Pest Management for reduced chemical control? How to develop and implement a rapid and simple digital imaging system for pest and disease diagnosis? How to improve the efficiency of pest and disease management while not harming beneficial insects and pollinators?
Food Nutrition and Safety: focus questions and discussions will include: how alterations to growing media and environment will impact food quality, flavor, nutrition content and food safety? How do indoor growing conditions alter the microbial communities of plants? How do they impact product quality and shelf life?
Industrial Ecology in Closed Systems: focus questions will include: how can we better design more energy and resource efficient systems? Can we build holistic energy models? Can we create industrial ecosystems where one industry’s effluent is another’s intake? How would we model/quantify the ecosystem services provided by a functioning ‘closed loop industrial ecosystem’?
Conference participants are additionally welcome to join writing teams and collaborate on a proposal for a coordinated agricultural project (CAP) grant on VF that builds off of conference discussions. Writing teams may also choose to develop proposals for relevant funding programs at USDA-NIFA SAS, SCRI, NSF/USDA/DOE INFEWS, and NSF
Deadlines
Pre-registration ends June 30th
invitation to attend conference July 15th
Final registration, room reservations and payment due August 1st;
Conference events begin Monday September 9th
For more information about the conference please read the Project Summary.
For more information about conference activities please read the Conference Program Schedule and Format.
Conference Program Schedule & Format.pdf
For more information about Biosphere 2 please read the following document.
Want to make the most of your time in Tucson? Go to Visit Tucson to discover things to do during your visit!
US, OHIO: Great Lakes Ag Tech Summit - September 23, 2019
Join Urban Ag News, Hort Americas and Current, powered by GE, for the inaugural Great Lakes Ag Tech Summit on September 23. The summit will be held at at the historic Nela Park campus in Cleveland, Ohio
By urbanagnews
August 14, 2019
Join Urban Ag News, Hort Americas and Current, powered by GE, for the inaugural Great Lakes Ag Tech Summit on September 23. The summit will be held at at the historic Nela Park campus in Cleveland, Ohio.
The one-day event features keynote presentations and panel discussions from leading researchers and innovative growers in the Great Lakes region. Attendees will be able to connect with growers, scientists, researchers and entrepreneurs as we shape the future of food and move controlled environment agriculture forward.
Keynotes
Optimizing Plant Production Under a Controlled Environment – Research and Education Programs at the Ohio State University
Dr. Chieri Kubota – The Ohio State University
Dr. Kubota’s research mission is to serve in the development of science and technology in the area of controlled environment agriculture (CEA). Her projects are in an interdisciplinary area that encompasses plant physiology and horticultural engineering to enhance understanding and efficiency of CEA plant production systems such as greenhouses, warehouses (vertical farms), and growth chambers.
Are Consumers and Growers Putting Dollars in the Local Food Industry? Insights on Technologies and Preferences
Dr. Ariana Torres – Purdue University
Dr. Torres’ background combines field experience in agriculture with theoretical and applied research on agricultural economics. She has worked on projects looking at the impact of marketing choices on technology adoption for fruit and vegetable growers; the economic implications of social capital on entrepreneurship; and the role of community support on the resilience of small business after disasters.
Dr. Torres uses economic analysis to support the economic viability of the horticulture industry. Her research focuses on the intersection between the horticulture industry and marketing decisions. Her goal is to conduct innovative outreach and applied research in specialty crops marketing, with the end of promoting economic sustainability for horticultural businesses.
Dr. Torres is currently working on a project evaluating the market, economics, and potential barriers to produce export-quality dried apricots from smallholders of southern Tajikistan. She is also working on evaluating the adoption of a solar dehydrator for selected dried specialty crops in Indiana and Georgia. Lastly, she is collecting foundational data and establishing long-term pricing reports for Indiana farmers markets.
Vertical Farm Production of Young Plants, From Hemp to Tomatoes
John Jackson – Sustainable Indoor Growing Systems, Inc.
John is the CEO of Sustainable Indoor Growing Systems, Inc. (SIGS) born from an USDA funded industry-academic partnership with Grafted Growers, the University of Arizona, and North Carolina State University. John is an award-winning entrepreneur and University of Arizona alum with an MBA from the Eller College of Management. John has successfully launched investor and grant funded businesses and operated tech based companies to early stage revenue. Born in Compton, California, John continues his grandfather’s legacy as a sharecropper of tomatoes in rural Texas.
SIGS gives plants what they need to express the features that the market wants.
Sustainable Indoor Growing Systems, Inc. (SIGS) is a clean agricultural technology company that uses controlled environment agriculture to induce young generic plants to express enhanced physiological traits customers want – while increasing the economics of propagation. This is made possible by scientific discovery and development of unique growing recipes which are learned and enabled only by the SIGS multi-layered growing platform and architecture.
Click Here to Register Now! Seats Are Limited!
Location
1975 Noble Rd. Cleveland, OH 44112
Date & Time
Monday, September 23, 2019
9 am to 4pm
Registration
Early bird admission price is $30 if registration occurs before Sept. 16.
Regular admission: $50
Hotel
Hyatt Legacy Village
24665 Cedar Rd
Lyndhurst, OH 44124
The rate is $129 for the night of 9/22/19.
• Call the toll-free number at 1-888-492-8847 for Hyatt Place Reservations and ask for the “Great Lakes Ag Tech Summit” or code G-GLGT
• OR use this link https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/ohio/hyatt-place-cleveland-lyndhurst-legacy-village/clezl?corp_id=G-GLGT
Click Here to Register Now!
About Urban Ag News
The mission of Urban Ag News is to be the leading science communicator for the commercial hydroponics, greenhouse vegetable, vertical farming and urban agriculture industries. Urban Ag News educates readers and provide an understanding of the industry’s latest technologies and luminaries.
About Current, powered by GE
Current, powered by GE, offers cutting-edge innovations in horticultural lighting. We’ve spent years perfecting our lighting technology and working with growers, systems integrators and plant scientists to establish the specific needs of the horticulture industry. The result? LED grow systems that maximize the potential of greenhouses and indoor farms by enabling efficient growth at an industrial scale.
TAGS Ariana Torres Chieri Kubota Conference GE Lighting Greenhouse Greenhouse Technology Hort Americas Indoor Ag Technology LED Grow Lights Ohio State University
The Aquaponics Association 2019 Board of Governors Is Proud To Present The Tentative Program For The September 20-22 Putting Out Fruits Conference
This year’s Aquaponics Association Annual Conference theme is “ Putting Out Fruits”. Putting Out Fruits will take place in Frankfort, Kentucky at Kentucky State University on September 20 - 22nd, 2019
Conference Program!
Buy Your Tickets At The Putting Out Fruits homepage
The program features over FIFTY individual sessions and presenters from across the globe.
And a special thanks to Conference Chair Tawnya Sawyer for all the hard work putting such a great program together!
Hope to see you there!
Brian Filipowich, Chairman
Aquaponics Association
American Society for Horticultural Science - 2019 Annual Conference - July 21 - 25 • Las Vegas, Nevada
The Annual Meeting of ASHS is where the latest science and technology is being showcased related to horticulture. Our mission is to bring together horticulture researchers, scientists, industry, academia, government, and students to cultivate ideas and share new techniques
2019 Annual Conference
Conference Program (pdf)
July 21 - 25 • Las Vegas, Nevada
The Tropicana Las Vegas
July 21 - Student Education & Career Day
The Annual Meeting of ASHS is where the latest science and technology is being showcased related to horticulture. Our mission is to bring together horticulture researchers, scientists, industry, academia, government, and students to cultivate ideas and share new techniques.
Since the conference is being held in Nevada, ASHS is partnering with Oasis Biotech, one of the more innovative and effective green industry entities in the United States, for an up-close journey into Vertical Farming at the Oasis Biotech facility.
Participants will be afforded access to the largest and most technologically advanced Indoor Vertical Farming facility ever designed and implemented in this country. Oasis Biotech uses state-of-the-art LED lighting technology and precise, cutting-edge hydroponic growing methods to generate a wide array of fresh, pesticide-free, non-GMO produce and non-traditional crops 365 days a year.
Attendees will have the opportunity to examine the agricultural system that recycles 100% of unused water and nutrient consumption while significantly reducing environmental impacts. On an inspiring expedition through the 215,000-square-foot indoor vertical farm, interested participants will witness the way that Oasis Biotech is attempting to make positive changes in farming.
Oasis Biotech boasts the ability to grow crops at a faster rate than traditional agriculture. Their LED and hydroponic systems reportedly ensure that crops receive optimal light spectrums and nutrient mixes, and they reduce loss from pests, diseases, and weather, which encourages higher yields. Oasis Biotech also calculates that they save 90% more water than other systems and are environmentally friendly.
The hour and a half tour will explain how this massive resource was created and how it is achieving its goal of producing more than one million pounds of microgreens, lettuce, and herbs.
The meeting focuses on the distribution of science through technical sessions, poster and abstract presentations, keynote speakers, and workshops. Enjoy networking and group activities where you can catch up with peers. There is also a spotlight on students–from career path mentoring to competitions and group activities to create relationships that can last throughout your career.
Program Information
• Keep checking the conference pages as new information is updated frequently
• Be part of the conference by submitting an oral or poster abstract - submission site is now open - Acceptance Email Expected April 15th.
• Submit a workshop (for ASHS Professional Interest Groups only) - submission site is now open
General Conference Information
• Check out the registration rates (below) and complete your registration starting in a few months
• Find out about discount rates for hotel and travel to the conference
• There are travel grant opportunities for students - don’t miss out!
Group Activities for 2019
• Luncheon Series with Featured Speakers
• Opening Reception & Pool Party
• Sightseeing and Professional Tours
• Student Education & Career Day
• Student Competitions and Scavenger Hunt
Strengthen Your Crop Protection Tool Box Through Development, Formulation, And Regulations Insights
In 2019, We Are Bringing The Crop Protection
Community Together
10 - 12 September 2019
Crowne Plaza Barcelona - Fira Center,
Barcelona, Spain
Jump into the world of Synthetic and Biocontrol Crop Protection with updates from the European Commission, Member States, EFSA and leading Industry Case Studies.
With 4 focused tracks on regulations of Crop Protection Products, Agrochemical formulation, biocontrol and new technologies, plus three pre-conference workshops, CIR in Barcelona is the place to be this September.
BOOK NOW
After a full day of insightful debates and
discussions, all attendees
are invited to join the networking reception
On day 1 of the conference. Mix and mingle with colleagues, meet your fellow crop protection peers and network with leading industry experts and decision makers in a more informal setting at our evening drinks reception.
This is the ultimate opportunity to swap top tips and business cards, as well as catch up with your peers.
STRENGTHEN YOUR CROP PROTECTION TOOL BOX THROUGH
DEVELOPMENT, FORMULATION, AND REGULATION INSIGHTS
NETWORKING DRINKS WITH THE CROP PROTECTION COMMUNITY
THE CROP INNOVATIONS AND REGULATIONS MOBILE APP
By booking early, you don’t just secure the best pricing but also access our Networking App, 3 weeks before the conference!
Log in to the event app to:
Browse the attendee list
Access speaker presentations
Set up one-to-one meetings
Send messages to fellow participants
View the latest agenda
Navigate around the venue with maps & floor plans and more!
Conference Theme Announcement: Putting Out Fruits
This year’s Aquaponics Association Annual Conference theme is “Putting Out Fruits”. Putting Out Fruits will take place in Frankfort, Kentucky at Kentucky State University on September 20 – 22nd, 2019
This year’s Aquaponics Association Annual Conference theme is “Putting Out Fruits”. Putting Out Fruits will take place in Frankfort, Kentucky at Kentucky State University on September 20 – 22nd, 2019.
Head to the Putting Out Fruits homepage for ticket info. (http://bit.ly/2UuUzxz)
The aquaponics movement is expanding rapidly, and the Aquaponics Association’s annual conferences are growing along with it. Two years ago we were in Portland, Oregon for “Putting Down Roots”; and last year we were in Hartford, Connecticut for “Putting Up Shoots”. Finally, this year’s theme reflects the culmination of our journey as we take the next step learning and growing together. We will produce tangible “fruits” to advance the practice of aquaponics, both for individual growers and for the aquaponics movement as a whole.
A major component of the Conference will be the tour and interactive session at the KSU Aquaculture Research Center. This Center hosts one of the most advanced aquaculture research programs in the nation, including indoor aquaponics research systems, saltwater aquaponics research, a 30’ x 70’ aquaponics demonstration greenhouse, a 10,000sq foot recirculating aquaculture research building, and 33 research ponds.
We’ve heard from many of you through our online survey [thank you for your input!] and we are excited to focus this year’s content around the following hot topics:
– Integrated pest management
– Nutrient deficiencies and nutrient supplementation
– STEM curriculum and classroom aquaponics
– Growing cannabis in controlled environments
– Food safety
– Organic certification
– International case studies
– “Green” solution applications
– Successes with higher risk / higher reward and non-typical crops in aquaponics
– Post-secondary aquaponics research
Conference attendees will walk away with cutting edge information, new connections and a greater understanding of core knowledge and best practices. In addition to farm-to-table tours and hands on activities, learning tracks will focus on Aquaponics Research, STEM Education, hobby/home aquaponics, commercial farming, and community based endeavors. Interactive sessions will allow all participants to discuss and plan what we can do together to advance aquaponics.
As always, the Conference will feature top aquaponics experts and a vendor showroom of aquaponics technology and services.
We are also still looking for presenters to cover the following topics: aquaculture and fish diseases (recognition and treatment); filtration and biofiltration; automation of aquaponics systems (feeding, monitoring, etc.); and case studies of successful small / medium / large growing facilities. Please submit presentation proposals by July 15.
To purchase your ticket and/or to submit a presentation proposal, please visit https://aquaponicsassociation.org/2019-conference/.
We hope to see you in Kentucky!
Kate Wildrick
Senior Advisor & Conference Planner
Aquaponics Association
Hemp Fibre-Reinforced Plastic, Hemp Protein Powder And Hemp Face Cream Are “Hemp Products of the Year 2019”
nova-Institut GmbH (www.nova-institute.eu)
Hürth, 6 June 2019
With more than 410 participants from 49 countries and a sold-out exhibition, the conference has broken all records and is now by far the world's largest event for the industrial use of hemp
For the second time, the innovation award “Hemp Product of the Year” has been granted to the young, innovative hemp industry for finding suitable applications and markets for industrial hemp-based products.
After a 10-minute presentation from each of the nominated companies, the three award winners were chosen by the expert audience at the “16th EIHA Hemp Conference”, 5 – 6 June 2019 in Cologne, Germany (www.eiha-conference.org). The six nominees were previously selected by a jury from a total of 30 submissions.
Visuals, German version and PDF file available at http://nova-institute.eu/press/?id=125
With more than 410 participants from 49 countries and a sold-out exhibition, the conference has broken all records and is now by far the world’s largest event for the industrial use of hemp. Practically all companies active worldwide in the field of hemp fibres and shives, hemp seeds and oil and cannabidiol (CBD) meet once a year in Cologne to discuss the latest developments, to strengthen business relationships and create new ones.
The demand for hemp products, especially food, cosmetics and CBD, is growing worldwide. In Europe, a record area of 50,000 ha will be cultivated this year. In Canada the goal is to reach a turnover of 1 billion Canadian dollars by the year 2023 and in the USA Kentucky is entering hemp cultivation with big plans: “Make Hemp Great Again”. As for China, a large hemp textile industry is currently emerging.
Continuous innovation is one of the most important drivers of the hemp industry. Therefore, the innovation award “Hemp Product of the Year 2019” plays a very special role. This year, the innovation award was sponsored by HempFlax, the leading hemp company from the Netherlands, and awarded together with the nova-Institute. Michael Carus, managing director of the nova-Institute, was enthusiastic: “This year’s winners not only convince hemp enthusiasts, they also illustrate the broad spectrum of the hemp plant: Hemp fibre-reinforced plastic for trolleys and lightweight construction, high-quality hemp protein in previously unmatched purity and a face cream that combines the advantages of hemp oil and CBD for facial care”.
The winners in detail:
1st place: Trifilon AB (SE) – Trifilon BioLite Trolley Case made of PP Hemp Fibre
With BioLite, Trifilon offers a green alternative to plastics. BioLite is a polypropylene reinforced with 30% hemp fibres. Hemp is one of the strongest natural fibres in the world, which makes BioLite products strong, light and durable. The use of hemp fibres in BioLite optimises the material properties for many applications – the high-quality trolley case is just one example. This technology gives manufacturers the opportunity to make sensible use of renewable raw materials, and an excellent one is hemp. The new material is suitable for lightweight automotive construction and consumer goods.
www.trifilon.com
2nd place: BAFA Neu GmbH (DE): Absolute HempProtein
The innovative hemp protein powder contains over 70% complete protein. It has a nutty taste and white colour. It has a creamy texture, is mixable with liquids and it doesn’t contain insoluble fibre fractions. The hemp protein powder is naturally white which ensures great bright colours in shakes when mixed with fresh fruit such as strawberries, raspberries or mango. This product is 100% natural and is also available in a certified organic version. Hemp protein powder is an ideal protein supplement for athletic vegetarians and vegans. It is allergen free and a complete protein.
www.bafa-gmbh.de
3rd place: Hemptouch d.o.o. (SI): Hemptouch Balancing Face Cream
Hemptouch Balancing Face Cream is a first ever skin care product formulated with a unique trilogy of industrial hemp extracts such as hemp hydrolate, Cannabidiol (CBD) and hemp seed oil. This innovative face cream combats blemished and acne-prone skin, one of the biggest segments in skin care industry. It brings a brand-new approach to the fight against acne and oily skin, proving that hemp is a powerful alternative to over the counter medicine. Hemp hydrolate has antimicrobial properties, visibly tightens pores and smooths skin texture. CBD extract helps to control excess oil production which prevents blemishes and purifies acne-prone skin. Hemp seed oil with its nurturing omega acids restores healthy-looking radiance. This cream is dermatologically tested, proven to reduce the secretion of sebum.
www.hemptouch.com
The nova-Institute would like to acknowledge HempFlax (NL) for sponsoring the renowned innovation award “Hemp Product of the Year”. Agropro (LT), GenCanna Global (US), MH medical hemp (DE) and Hempro (DE) have been supporting the conference as Gold Sponsors, Fundación CANNA (ES) and Gilson International B.V. Germany (DE) as Silver Sponsors and Canah International (RO) as Bronze Sponsor. BAFA Neu (DE) sponsored the hemp beer.
Source: nova-Institut GmbH, press release, 2019-06-06.
Supplier
The Early Bird Ticket Deal Expires This Saturday, June 15.
The Early Bird Ticket deal expires June 15
this is a super discount!
This ticket includes THREE days of programming, ALL conference digital content, ALL conference lunches and snacks, ALL conference tours and transport, and the Saturday evening Aquaponics Banquet!
Most importantly, you will feel the camaraderie of an aquaponics conference!
See you soon :)
Brian Filipowich, Chairman
Aquaponics Association
TICKET INFORMATION
June 12, 2019 - LED Conference During GreenTech
The application of the LED technology can propel a cultivation business or a plant research project forward but can also pose challenges. Firstly, the LED offer on the market is vast, complex and confusing and secondly, LED is only one of the available lighting technologies.
The best way to understand how to advance properly onto LEDs is by hearing the stories of those who have done it before. Experts from the fields of crop science, vertical farming and medical plants cultivation will gather in the LEDs & Innovators Conference 2019 to discuss the application of the LED technology and more. The conference will be held during GreenTech at the RAI premises and is free of charge for the GreenTech participants but with a very limited number of seats available.
The 3-part event consists of a Crop Science and Light session, a Hard Science Talk on Cannabis session and a Vertical Farming Innovators Panel. Participants can choose which one to participate in and thus hear first-hand experiences from those who have ventured into the world of LEDs already. The scope will expand beyond just lighting and additionally participants will have a chance to ask their own questions.
In the Crop Science and Light session, we will try to show what kind of light is most useful for researchers and how to successfully transition from trialed and tested protocols made with fluorescent and other, more traditional technologies onto LEDs. In the Hard Science Talk on Cannabis, Dr. Grassi, one of Europe’s most prominent Cannabis sativa researchers, with two decades in the field will discuss terpenes.
The scent molecules of the cannabis plant are sought after almost as much as the cannabinoid compounds and our understanding of their value is still scarce. Finally, the Vertical Farming Innovators Panel will gather vertical farmers as well as industry specialists who will discuss not only lighting for vertical farming, but the ins and outs of this field which is on the exponential rise. You have a chance to propose a topic you wish to be discussed by the panelists. You will have an opportunity to do so in the registration form for the event.
The participation in the event is FREE of charge, however the number of seats is very limited so it is best to register right away.
To learn more about the event and register, please click here.
Conference Program
10:15 – 11:15 Crop Science and Light
Stefanie Linzer, Biologist, Valoya
High Quality White LED Light for Crop Science Applications
11:30 – 12:30 Hard Science Talk on Cannabis
Dr. Gianpaolo Grassi, Head Researcher, CREA-CI, Italy
How Does the Light Spectrum Affect the Terpene Profile of Cannabis?
13:00 – 14:30 Vertical Farming Innovators Panel
Mark Korzilius, Co-Founder & CEO, Farmers Cut, Germany
Rasmus Jakobsen, Manager, Greenlandic Greenhouse
Gus van der Feltz, Chairman, Farm Tech Society
Henry Gordon-Smith, Managing Director, Agritecture
Lars Aikala, CEO, Valoya
About Valoya
Valoya is a provider of high end, energy efficient LED grow lights for use in crop science, vertical farming and medical plants cultivation. Valoya LED grow lights have been developed using Valoya's proprietary LED technology and extensive plant photobiology research. Valoya's customer base includes numerous vertical farms, greenhouses and research institutions all over the world (including 8 out of 10 world’s largest agricultural companies).
Additional information:
Valoya Oy, Finland
Tel: +358 10 2350300
Email: sales@valoya.com
Web: www.valoya.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valoyafi/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/valoya
DE/EN): Six Candidates Nominated For The Innovation Award “Hemp Product of The Year 2019”
27.05.2019
For the second time, the innovation award “Hemp Product of the Year” will be granted to the young, innovative hemp industry for finding suitable applications and markets for industrial hemp-based products.
Focus of the award is on new developments within these business areas. The winners will be elected at the “16th EIHA Hemp Conference”, 5 - 6 June 2019 in Cologne, Germany (http://www.eiha-conference.org). The conference is the oldest and largest conference on industrial hemp worldwide. Six new materials and products out of 30 applications have been nominated by a jury. After a short presentation of the six candidates, the three winners will be elected by the participants of the conference and honoured with the innovation award, sponsored by HempFlax from The Netherlands.
What to expect – the “Top 6” candidates in detail:
Academy of Design and Crafts Münster (DE): Light Sculptures Monas
The innovative design light sculptures are made of hemp cellulose. For the production of the handmade paper, the artists used hemp cellulose (Cannabis sativa) and potato flour. The round and damp handmade paper sheets dry directly on the wire frame where it is attached. As the damp fibres links together in a natural way, usage of additional glue is not necessary. To improve the stability, certain functional characteristics and for paper finishing, paper pulp is mixed with environmentally friendly wall paper paste. Later the mixture and strips of paper are applied in layers. After the drying process, the wire frame is pressed together and is removed. http://www.akademie-gestaltung.de
BAFA Neu GmbH (DE): Absolute HempProtein
The innovative hemp protein powder contains over 70% complete protein. It has a nutty taste and white colour. It has a creamy texture, is mixable with liquids and it doesn’t contain insoluble fibre fractions. The hemp protein powder is naturally white which ensures great bright colours in shakes when mixed with fresh fruit such as strawberries, raspberries or mango. This product is 100% natural and is also available in a certified organic version. Hemp protein powder is an ideal protein supplement for athletic vegetarians and vegans. It is allergen free and a complete protein. http://www.bafa-gmbh.de
hanfwerk Feinkostmanufaktur UG / haftungsbeschränkt (DE): Hanfling – Hanfling Bombay – Hanfling Chorizo
The Hanfling is an organic, vegan friendly product in three different tastes: Hanfling Nature, Hanfling Bombay and Hanfling Chorizo. These can be eaten raw, but also fried, grilled or toasted, used as a patty for a burger or in a caper sauce (“Königsberger Hanfling”). This product needs to be refrigerated with an expiry date of 6 months. hanfwerk uses hemp seeds as the main ingredient as well as self-made hemp-tofu. The product is available in around 100 organic supermarkets in Germany. http://www.hanfwerk.de
Hempster HB (SE): Raw Vegan Shake
Raw Vegan Shake is a fresh, yummy, organic hemp drink designed to optimize the nutritional benefit of hemp seeds. It is locally produced and comes in four flavours: Chocolate, Chai Latte, Cocos and Vanilla Malt. This shake is ideal for breakfast, as a nourishing snack or as an energy drink and it contains high-quality and valuable essential nutrients. Through a unique production method, Hempster has created a product which ticks all the boxes and gives the customer a pleasant, satisfying drinking experience. http://www.hempster.se
Hemptouch d.o.o. (SI): Hemptouch Balancing Face Cream
Hemptouch Balancing Face Cream is a first ever skin care product formulated with a unique trilogy of industrial hemp extracts such as hemp hydrolate, Cannabidiol (CBD) and hemp seed oil. This innovative face cream combats blemished and acne-prone skin, one of the biggest segments in skin care industry. It brings a brand-new approach to the fight against acne and oily skin, proving that hemp is a powerful alternative to over the counter medicine. Hemp hydrolate has antimicrobial properties, visibly tightens pores and smooths skin texture. CBD extract helps to control excess oil production which prevents blemishes and purifies acne-prone skin. Hemp seed oil with its nurturing omega acids restores healthy-looking radiance. This cream is dermatologically tested, proven to reduce the secretion of sebum. http://www.hemptouch.com
Trifilon AB (SE): Trifilon BioLite – Trolley Case made of PP Hemp Fibre
Trifilon offers with BioLite a green alternative to plastics. BioLite is a polypropylene that is reinforced with 30% hemp fibres. Hemp makes for some of the world’s strongest natural fibres, the products made with BioLite are strong, light and durable. BioLite’s hemp fibres enhance and improve material properties for many applications – the high quality trolley case is just one example. This technology gives manufacturers a way to meaningfully begin working with renewable feedstocks and an excellent one is hemp. http://www.trifilon.com
More than 350 participants from 40 countries are expected to attend the “16th EIHA Hemp Conference”, 5 - 6 June 2019 in Cologne, Germany, the oldest and largest conference on industrial hemp worldwide. The exhibition taking place during the conference includes 27 exhibition stands and is already fully booked.
All information, registration and the conference programme are available at http://www.eiha-conference.org
The nova-Institute would like to acknowledge HempFlax (NL) for sponsoring the renowned innovation award “Hemp Product of the Year”. Agropro (LT), GenCanna Global (US), MH medical hemp (DE) and Hempro (DE) are supporting the conference as Gold Sponsors, Fundación CANNA (ES) and Gilson International B.V. Germany (DE) as Silver Sponsors and Canah International (RO) as Bronze Sponsor. BaFa Neu (DE) is sponsor of the hemp beer.
16th EIHA Hemp Conference, 5–6 June 2019, Maternushaus, Cologne, Germany
Hemp Fibres & Shives for Construction, Biocomposites & Paper
16th EIHA Hemp Conference
++ 200 registered participants from 31 countries - 400 participants and 30 exhibitors expected ++
Industrial hemp is more than hemp food and CBD. Hemp fibres and shives are in demand as raw materials for the construction industry, biocomposites and special papers. Leading international experts present, share and discuss the latest developments at the oldest and largest industrial hemp conference in the world. Presentations will show a broad range of hempcrete applications, energy storage system from hemp materials, hemp fibre plastic granulates for many more applications such as cases and toys and high quality hemp paper for business and beyond.
Candice Meskin, Quintessential Tips (UK):
Hemp Paper for Business and Beyond
Abstract
Steve Allin, International Hemp Building Association (IR):
The Broad Range of Hempcrete Applications Worldwide
Abstract
Carl Martel, Advanced Hemp Technologies (CA):
Building an Integrated Energy Storage from Hemp Materials
Abstract
Jeremiah Dutton, Trifilon (SE):
Trifilon Biocomposites – Advancing Sustainability & Performance with Hemp Fibres
Final programme you will find here.
Book your adverstisement in the conference journal now!
Increase the awareness of your company and place an ad in the conference journal. It reaches thousands of industrial hemp specific recipients in printed and electronic form!
One page (DIN A 4, 3mm bleed) for 1,000 EUR (excl. 19% VAT) and half a page for 500 EUR (excl. 19% VAT) only.
Deadline for submission: 12:00h MEZ, 22 May 2019
Innovation award "Hemp Product of the Year"
For the 2nd time, the Innovation award "Hemp Product of the Year" 2019 will be granted to the young, innovative industrial hemp industry for finding suitable applications and markets for industrial hemp based products. Many thanks to HempFlax for supporting the Innovation Award! All six nominated products will be published soon.
Sponsoring opportunities
All sponsoring opportunities are available for download here.
Call for posters
Want to present a poster? Submit your application here.
About the conference
Specialists from all over the world will meet in order to exchange information regarding the latest developments in hemp applications for fibres, shivs, seeds and oil as well as cannabinoids. Applications are biocomposites in automotive and construction as well as textiles, food, food supplements and pharmaceuticals. We are expecting again 400 international participants from more than 40 countries.
Looking forward to welcoming you at the biggest event on industrial hemp ever!
Your nova conference team
Visions And Global Hemp Industry & Country Reports, 16th EIHA Hemp Conference
16th EIHA Hemp Conference, 5–6 June 2019, Maternushaus, Cologne, Germany
++ Almost 140 registered participants from 26 countries - 400 participants expected ++ 30 exhibitors expected
16th EIHA Hemp Conference, 5–6 June 2019,
Maternushaus, Cologne, Germany
++ Almost 140 registered participants from 26 countries - 400 participants expected ++ 30 exhibitors expected ++
Industrial hemp is becoming a big business worldwide, whether CBD, hemp food or building materials. At the oldest and largest industrial hemp conference in the world, countries such as Australia, Canada, Thailand, India, Greece, Romania, The Netherlands and Great Britain will present their growth scenarios and visions. Don't miss the pioneers of a new billion-dollar industry!
Visions and Global Hemp Industry
Michael Carus (DE)
nova-Institut and member of the EIHA advisory board
Welcome and Introduction to the Conference
Lorenza Romanese (BE)
Managing Director of EIHA: Lobbying Actions in Brussels on Hemp Food, CBD and CAP Reform – an Opportunity for the Hemp Sector
Catherine Wilson (UK)
CannaWellness and EIHA board member: The Future of Hemp
Steve Bevan (US)
GenCanna: Global Hemp Economics
Paul Benhaim (AU)
Elixinol Global: Hemp and Cannabis in a Modern and Changing World
Abstract
Kehrt Reyher (PL / US)
HempToday: Powering the Industry with Modern Media Tools
Abstract
Country Reports
Mark Reinders (NL)
HempFlax and president of EIHA: Update on EIHA and the European Hemp Industry
Ted Haney (CA)
Canadian Hemp Trade Alliance: The Canadian Hemp Industry – A Billion Dollar Blueprint
Abstract
Thiprada Poonsawat (TH)
Kasetsart University: Hemp in Thailand – Current Status and the Coming of Medical Hemp
Abstract
Rohit Sharma (IN)
Indian Industrial Hemp Association: Indian Hemp Techno Commercial & Market Update
Michalis Theodoropoulos (GR)
KANNABIO Hemp Cooperative: Cooperativism in the Hemp Industry – Prospects and Challenges
Final programme you will find here.
Innovation award "Hemp Product of the Year"
For the 2nd time, the Innovation award "Hemp Product of the Year" 2019 will be granted to the young, innovative industrial hemp industry for finding suitable applications and markets for industrial hemp based products. Many thanks to HempFlax for supporting the Innovation Award! All six nominated products will be published soon.
Sponsoring and exhibition opportunities
All sponsoring opportunities are available for download here.
The fee for a booth (6 m2) is 650 EUR (excl. 19% VAT). We provide you with a table, tablecloths, a pin board, a chair and a power connection. You are welcome to use your own booth system. After booking your booth please submit Mr. Dominik Vogt a printable logo and a company profile.
Call for posters
Want to present a poster? Submit your application here.
About the conference
Specialists from all over the world will meet in order to exchange information regarding the latest developments in hemp applications for fibres, shivs, seeds and oil as well as cannabinoids. Applications are biocomposites in automotive and construction as well as textiles, food, food supplements and pharmaceuticals. We are expecting again 400 international participants from more than 40 countries.
Looking forward to welcoming you at the biggest event on industrial hemp ever!
Your nova conference team
Valoya To Host The LEDs & Innovators Conference At GreenTech Again
At last year’s GreenTech, Valoya hosted its first educational event titled LEDs & Innovators Conference 2018. The event gathered some of the most prominent names in crop science, vertical farming and medical plants industries as speakers. These include Richard Ballard of the infamous Growing Underground farm in London and Dr. Giovanni Minuto, the director of the esteemed agricultural research institute CeRSAA, from Italy.
Valoya announces the second edition of this event, to be held on June 12th, the second day of this year’s GreenTech. The conference is tailored to industry professionals interested in deepening their knowledge in matters of lighting for crop science, medical plants cultivation and vertical farming fields. Additionally, this is an opportunity to hear first-hand cultivation experiences from experts as well as network with industry peers.
LEDs & Innovators Conference 2019
The Program
10:15 – 11:15 Crop Science and Light
Stefanie Linzer, Biologist, Valoya
High Quality White LED Light for Crop Science Applications
11.15 – 11.30 Break
11:30 – 12:30 Hard Science Talk on Medicinal Cannabis
Dr. Gianpaolo Grassi, Head Researcher, CREA-CI, Italy
How Does the Light Spectrum Affect the Terpene Profile of Cannabis?
12.30 – 13.00 Break
13:00 – 14:30 Vertical Farming Innovators Panel
Mark Korzilius, Co-Founder & CEO, Farmers Cut, Germany
Gus van der Feltz, Chairman, Farm Tech Society
Henry Gordon-Smith, Managing Director, Agritecture
Lars Aikala, CEO, Valoya
From last year’s LEDs & Innovators Conference at GreenTech
The conference is free of charge, however the number of seats is limited. Participants need to register on Valoya’s website after which they will go through a selection process and will be notified if they can participate in the conference.
The sign-up form and more information about the event is available here.
Valoya is also to host a webinar titled Transitioning to White LED Light in Crop Science, What You Need to Know on May 24th at 14.00 CET. The webinar is aimed at researchers trying to understand if and why they should to move ahead to LED technology in the coming future. It will be hosted by Valoya’s Biologist, Ms. Stefanie Linzer who has more than a decade of biology expertise and has helped Valoya develop some of its patented spectra which illuminate the chambers of the world’s largest agricultural companies, research institutes and universities. The attendance is free of charge.
To sign up, please click here.
About Valoya Oy
Valoya is a provider of high end, energy efficient LED grow lights for use in crop science, vertical farming and medical plants cultivation. Valoya LED grow lights have been developed using Valoya's proprietary LED technology and extensive plant photobiology research. Valoya's customer base includes numerous vertical farms, greenhouses and research institutions all over the world (including 8 out of 10 world’s largest agricultural companies).
Additional information:
Valoya Oy, Finland
Tel: +358 10 2350300
Email: sales@valoya.com
Web: www.valoya.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valoyafi/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/valoya
Indoor Ag-Con Announces Full Conference Schedule For May 22-24, 2019 Las Vegas Edition
Keynote From Bowery’s Irving Fain
Kicks Off Comprehensive Schedule
LAS VEGAS (April 1, 2019) – Indoor Ag-Con, the premier event covering the technology of growing crops in indoor systems, using hydroponic, aeroponic and aquaponic techniques, has announced the full conference schedule for the 7th annual edition, May 22-24, 2019, at Red Rock Resort, Las Vegas, NV. Featuring 50+ sessions, panel discussions and keynotes, the comprehensive line-up spans five tracks: Grow Equipment, Crop Selection, Customers & The Supply Chain, Business, Policy & Societal Impact.
The full conference schedule is available at https://indoor.ag/lasvegas/las-vegas-2019-schedule-sessions/
“We built our conference sessions around the show’s theme, ‘Growing The Future,’” explained Jim Pantaleo, Conference Chairman, Indoor Ag-Con. “From indoor farm success stories to the latest innovations in artificial intelligence, LED lighting and control systems, to the impacts of the farm bill, we’ve gathered a full roster of industry experts to address today’s most pressing topics and issues.”
On opening day, Wednesday, May 22, 2019, Irving Fain, co-founder and CEO of Bowery, the modern farming company growing food for a better future by revolutionizing agriculture, kicks off the conference with a presentation from 9:15 – 9:55 am.
Bowery’s large scale commercial indoor farms combine the benefits of the best local farms with advances made possible by technology to grow food for a better future.
Since launching publicly in early 2017, Bowery has secured over $122.5M in funding, and expanded distribution of 8 product SKUs to retailers like Whole Foods, Foragers, Peapod, and various restaurants and fast-casuals in the Tristate area.
In addition to the keynotes, attendees can chose from an expansive line-up of sessions and panel discussions led by top industry executives and thought leaders from some of the biggest names and up-and-coming innovators in the indoor ag space.
Among them: Suncrest USA, AeroFarms, Signify, Shenandoah Farms, MVP Farms, Fluence Bioengineering, Farmbox Greens, Urban Crop Solutions, Sananbio, Vertial Harvest, TapRoot holdings, Pulse Labs Smallhold, Germains Seed Technology, MVP Farms, Argus Controls, AgEye Technologies, HSG-AME Certified Laboratories and many others.
The hemp and cannabis sectors are also well represented within the 2019 programming, with sessions like Hemp and the Farm Bill, Hemp|Cannabis Genetics Landscape, HVAC and Accounting For Cannabis Grows and others.
Indoor Ag-Con welcomes a number of other features in addition to the comprehensive educational conference, including an exhibition floor filled the vendors showcasing the latest in everything from equipment to climate control systems. Networking opportunities are also an integral part of the event, including receptions on May 22 and 23, continental breakfast and lunch gatherings daily. Other programs include extended networking breaks between conference sessions.
The 2019 edition will also see the hard release of a new white paper from Contain Inc., an alternate finance provider to indoor growers, entitled “ Automation, AI and the Next Generation Of Indoor Agriculture.” Each attendee will receive a copy with their welcome gift bag.
ABOUT INDOOR AG-CON LLC
Founded in 2013, Indoor Ag-Con has grown into the premier event in indoor agriculture, the practice of growing crops, raising fish and insects in indoor systems, using hydroponic, aquaponic and aeroponic techniques.
Its events are tech-focused and crop-agnostic, covering produce, legal cannabis, alternate protein and non-food crops.
It hosts events in Las Vegas, Singapore and the US East coast.
In December 2018, three event industry professionals – Nancy Hallberg, Kris Sieradzki and Brian Sullivan – purchased Indoor Ag-Con LLC from Newbean Capital, so setting the stage for further expansion of the events globally.
More information: https://indoor.ag
Early Bird Tickets Are Available For The September Conference
Early Bird Tickets Are Available For The September Conference. Tickets
Are Limited, Get Yours Soon!
TICKET INFORMATION
AVF Speaker Announcement: Unlocking The Potential of Indoor Farming In Cities of the Future
AVF Speaker Announcement
22-23 May in Oslo, Norway @ Urban Future Global Conference
We are excited to announce the first round of confirmed speakers for our conference entitled: Unlocking the Potential of Indoor Farming in Cities of the Future. Event details here: https://pretix.eu/associationverticalfarming/urban-future-2019/
This conference will be the only part of the wider Urban Future programme to focus on food production in the city.
Our first confirmed speakers are:
Dr. Joel Cuello, Professor of Biosystems Engineering and Director of the Global Initiative for Strategic Agriculture in Dry Lands (GISAD) at The University of Arizona.
Dr. Leo Marcelis, PhD., Head of chair group Horticulture and Product Physiology, Wageningen University
Josef Schmidhuber, Deputy Director, Trade and Markets Division, FAO
The AVF will run two half-day sessions, which will include:
Keynote speeches from industry experts
Roundtable discussions on the industry and society's most pressing topics
Guided workshops to create realistic strategies for the industry's future
We will connect cities and industry to create solutions for food in the city.
Your ticket also includes:
Access to the conference venue on May 22 and May 23
Access to all sessions (except the Mayors Only sessions)
Access to the Green Business Village
Food and beverages at the conference venue
Participation in field trips on May 24
Access to the event app
Access to speakers presentations
Get your Early Bird Ticket now! This is the lowest price you will find anywhere for this event.
We look forward to seeing you in Oslo! Should you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us at re@vertical-farming.net.
Sincerely,
The AVF Team
CO2 GRO Provides A Summary of its Participation in The GFIA Global Forum Conference
TORONTO, ON – April 10, 2019 – Toronto based CO2 GRO Inc. (“GROW”) (TSX-V: GROW, OTCQB: BLONF, Frankfurt: 4021) attendance at the GFIA Global Ag Tech Conference April 1-2 in Abu Dhabi was successful and productive. GFIA stated there were over 7000 delegates from 122 countries this year. This Middle East based Conference is the largest global showcase of Sustainable Agriculture Innovation.
GROW’s objectives in attending the conference were two fold.
To meet with potential Middle East and EU Agri Industrial Partners/Distributors which resulted in the following;
Aaron Archibald, COO, CO2 GRO Inc. attended the GFIA conference on behalf of GROW. Aaron’s presentation on CO2 Foliar Spray was very well received. GROW had a well-attended trade booth at the conference.
GROW will take the next step with a major EU greenhouse manufacturer concerning how to work together.
To meet potential Middle East, EU and other international customers the result of which is below;
Aaron identified numerous quality revenue opportunities at the Conference. In addition, Aaron visited major indoor greenhouses that had expressed interest in the CO2 Foliar Spray technology, reviewing initial installation requirements and terms. Currently, none of these facilities can use CO2 gas due to excessive heat that has to be vented. This leaves CO2 Foliar Spray as the only logical value added CO2 gas service that can be integrated into existing spray racks.
Aaron Archibald, COO, commented “we were fully booked with one on one meetings with potential Ag customers and clients. A very clear message from the conference is the great importance the Emirates government is placing on food security and sustainability, areas where we believe GROW can make a significant contribution. The GFIA Global Ag Tech Conference was tailor made to showcase our CO2 Foliar Spray technology”.
About CO2 GRO Inc.
GROW's mission is to accelerate all indoor and outdoor value plant growth naturally, safely, and economically using its patent pending CO2 Foliar Spray technology. GROW’s global target retail plant markets are food at $8 trillion per year (Plunkett Mar 2017), non-food at an estimated $1.2 trillion per year with retail tobacco at $760 billion (BA Tobacco 2017), floriculture at $100 billion by 2022 (MarketResearch.Biz estimate). Legal cannabis at $52.5 billion per year by 2023 (Statista) and legal US hemp CBD at $22B per year by 2022 (the Brightfield Group).
GROW's CO2 technologies are commercially proven, scalable and easily adopted into existing irrigation systems.
The CO2 technologies work by transferring CO2 gas into water and foliar spraying water across the entire plant leaf surface which is a semi permeable membrane. The dissolved concentrated CO2 then penetrates a leaf's surface area naturally like nicotine dissolves through human skin from a soluble nicotine patch.
Foliar spraying of water, dissolved nutrients and chemicals on plant leaves has been used for over 60 years by millions of indoor and outdoor growers. To date, outdoor growers have not had any way to enhance plant CO2 gas uptake for faster growth.
Indoor CO2 gassing has enhanced plant yields for over 60 years but 60% of the CO2 gas used is typically lost from ventilation. Current greenhouse CO2 gassing levels of up to 1500 PPM are not ideal for worker health and safety. GROW’s safer infused CO2 Foliar Spray can be used by both indoor and outdoor plant growers with minimal dissolved CO2 gas lost and much greater CO2 plant bioavailability resulting in higher plant yields than both CO2 gassing and no gassing plant yields.
Forward-Looking Statements This news release may contain forward-looking statements that are based on CO2 GRO's expectations, estimates and projections regarding its business and the economic environment in which it operates. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to control or predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from those expressed in these forward-looking statements and readers should not place undue reliance on such statements. Statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update them publicly to reflect new information or the occurrence of future events or circumstances, unless otherwise required to do so by law.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
US (NY): Cornell University Hosts CEA Conference
April 22, 2019
Geneva, New York
Cornell University is hosting a CEA conference on Friday April 26. The Cornell Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) advisory/stakeholder group was formed to address the increasing demands of consumers for fresh, local, and year-round produce. In the Northeast, meeting this demand means incorporating various technologies to extend the growing season.
The CEA advisory/stakeholder meetings are designed to address this challenge with a multifaceted approach made possible by the diversity of its participants, which include: New York State producers, agribusiness professionals, supermarkets, government agencies, financial management companies, and Cornell faculty and faculty/staff from the Cornell AgriTech, the Charles S. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, the School of Integrative Plant Science, and the Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering.
The April 26, 2019 conference is designed to explore possibilities that could enable New York State to become a leader in the industry. Participants will hear from industry experts and leading academics about how they can create and capture economic synergies that will provide tremendous lasting value for New York State and beyond.
The meeting will be held at the Jordan Hall Auditorium at Cornell AgriTech, 614 W North St., Geneva, N.Y. Parking is free and located directly behind the building.
Will Controlled Environment Agriculture Disrupt The Value-Chain?
Is there a business case for widescale commercial vertical farming in the UK or will it remain a niche opportunity for high-end restaurants and retail? This is the challenge to be discussed by early adopters at the Agri-Tech East conference ‘Innovating for Controlled Environment Agriculture’ 19 March. Advances in logistics and the falling cost of LED lighting may enable year-round growing of undercover produce in the UK, but will energy costs and technical issues delay scale-up and integration within the food supply chain?
Potential to be commercially viable
“We do think there is the potential for indoor farming to be commercially viable and there are some immediate gains for growing crops such as leafy salads in high hygiene environments,” comments Lindsay Hargreaves, MD of Frederick Hiam, a farming and fresh produce business with farms in Suffolk and Cambridgeshire. “Growing indoors provides greater control of quality and quantity and fewer inputs of plant protection products.
“There is also the matter of growing crops closer to the point of consumption. Being able to grow more exotic crops in East Anglia close to distribution centres would reduce the food miles. Additionally, there are opportunities to grow crops for pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and vaccines within a controlled environment.”
There are many approaches to indoor cultivation, such as deep-water hydroponics, vertical soilless cultivation, and aeroponics, where exposed roots are sprayed with nutrients. All of these methods are to be discussed at the conference along with advances in monitoring and robotics.
However, despite the news that Sterling Suffolk, one of the UK’s most technically-advanced glasshouses, is set to produce millions of tomatoes starting in February 2019, the cost (£30M) and the technical challenges mean there are few commercial installations in the UK.
Also, it is proving difficult to demonstrate to retailers that controlled environment agriculture (CEA) can bring tangible benefits to their supply chain.
Aquaponics provides fish with a side salad
Kate Hofman, co-founder of GrowUp Farms, which from 2015 to 2017 operated ‘Unit 84’, a commercial-scale aquaponic urban farm inside an industrial warehouse. The 8,200 square feet of growing space could produce enough for 200,000 salad bags and 4,000kg of fish each year. It sold directly into restaurants, through a New Covent Garden distributor and also through bricks and mortar supermarkets and Farmdrop, the online supermarket.
Kate comments: “A key learning over the last six years is that we can’t just focus on technology – we have to partner along the supply chain to create a business model that ultimately delivers commercial success for growers and retailers.
“One of the major challenges for CEA is to optimise operations to bring down the cost of production to match existing imported products. Our prototype urban farm showed that it was possible to use CEA commercially, and we were able to demonstrate the demand for the produce we could grow. This ranged from specialist micro-greens and cut herbs through to mixed baby leaf salad.
“We are now working on scaling up our business. This will involve relocating, so that our production is co-located with a renewable energy plant and working in partnership with more traditional farming businesses to integrate their experience and expertise.”
There are also technology challenges to be addressed when trying to meet the highly variable consumer demand for high quality, fresh produce.
Year around UK production?
G’s Fresh supply baby leaf crops all year round, with much of the winter supply grown in Spain and Italy to ensure security of delivery. In summertime it produces a huge amount of outdoor salad crop, particularly lettuces and celery in the UK. Ben Barnes is investigating how controlled environment agriculture can increase the long-term viability and profitability of both of those parts of the business.
The organisation has a large standard greenhouse facility that is used to propagate seedlings for planting out into the field. It is running two projects: Smart Prop, which is looking at increasing the efficiency of the propagation facility to improve growth and make stronger plants so they transplant better back into the field. And Winter Grow, a pre-commercial trial, to see if it is feasible to produce baby leaf crops during the winter at an affordable price point.
Ben explains: “I’m going to be talking at the Agri-Tech East event about the commercial journey, in terms of the go and no-go decision-making process and what the key things are that we need to learn in order to be able to make those kind of investment decisions.
“One element of this is the development of ‘lighting recipes’ to enhance plant growth characteristics. We’ve got multi-spectrum LED lights, so we can turn up the different amounts of red, blue, green and white, and even far red light. These are fairly expensive, so once we have worked out what works best we can buy fixed spectrum lights, which are a tenth of the cost.
“You think LEDs are very efficient, but they still generate a heck of a lot of heat when you’ve got them turned up to full. It is more about keeping the space cool, and the plants obviously are transpirating so we’ve got dehumidifiers in there sucking the moisture out of the air.
“One of the biggest problems with the vertical farming concept is this interaction between moisture and temperature. You’ve got the two factors constantly fighting against each other and that ends up sucking up huge amounts of energy if you’re not careful.”
How will it integrate with the value chain?
Dr Belinda Clarke is director of Agri-Tech East, an independent membership organisation that is facilitating the growth of the agri-tech sector, comments that the commercial challenges need addressing along with the technical and agronomic aspects: “The promise of CEA is sustainable, intensive production but achieving that may require a different type of value chain.
“It could be that supermarkets of the future allow you to pick your own fruit and baby leaf instore, or we may see large-scale distribution of veg boxes, with produce grown indoors in optimum conditions or perhaps traditional growers would have more flexibility to grow a greater range of produce all year around with less waste.
“These ideas all have potential but also require significant capital investment and creative solutions for energy management. These are some of the themes we will discuss in the conference.”
‘Bringing the outside In – Innovating for Controlled Environment Agriculture’ taking place on 19 March from 10.00 – 16.00 at Rothamsted Research, Harpenden.
It will look at the different growing systems, emerging technologies, the challenges of implementing a system and the logistics involved with integrating a controlled environment agriculture into the food value chain
Vertical Farming Conference Takes Place on June 26, 2019 in Venlo, The Netherlands.
Vertical Farming Conference
Focus topics:
Available technologies
LED lighting, sensors ,AI - Plant condition issues like:
CO2, Nutrients, Irrigation, Climate, Lighting | Food safety / HACCP | Robotics | Improved resource-use efficiency | Sustainable Buildings (design, green roof, energy) | Smart Cities / Architecture / Urban Design | From traditional farmer to vertical farmer
The conference is part of the two-day global Agri Food Innovation Event that includes a two-day expo, four conferences - 3D Food Printing Conference, Healthy Nutrition Conference, Vertical Farming Conference and Smart Farming Conference and more activities such as lab tours, demo corners.