Researchers from the University of York in the UK have created a model to help farmers choose the best “light recipe” for indoor farms. This is important since the world’s population is expected to rise significantly.
The study, featured in Quantitative Plant Biology, outlines how different lighting combinations can be adjusted based on where the plants are grown and the types of plants themselves. The research took place at Grow It York, an indoor farm located in a shipping container, with help from Vertically Urban, a lighting company that explored the effects of light on crop growth.
Dr. Daphne Ezer, a biologist at the University of York, noted that while vertical farming is gaining popularity, it often consumes a lot of energy for lighting and climate control. Many farmers lack the resources to experiment with more energy-efficient lighting methods that could enhance their yields and lower their carbon footprint.
Lead researcher Will Claydon pointed out that many vertical farms have lighting systems that are “good enough,” but changing them could risk their production. The team aimed to improve efficiency without requiring farms to stop operations. They developed a mathematical model demonstrating how light color and intensity vary within a growing area, allowing farmers to optimize their lighting strategies.
This model helps farmers understand which light qualities are most beneficial for different crops. By optimizing lighting, vertical farms could save money and energy, all while continuing to produce food. Claydon expressed hope that other farms would adopt this model, contributing to climate-friendly food production.
Experts predict that by 2050, more than 6 billion people will inhabit urban areas. Ensuring access to fresh produce in these regions is critical, especially as climate change poses challenges to traditional agriculture.
For more insights into urban farming and its future, you can read additional resources from Cambridge University Press.
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