How to reduce the environmental impact of greenhouses

Added on 21 August 2023

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How to reduce the environmental impact of greenhouses

Controlled environment agriculture is a method of farming that allows us to create optimum conditions for healthy and efficient plant growth - a greenhouse being perhaps the most traditional and common example. Globally, huge amounts of our food is grown in commercial greenhouses - with this method having become increasingly popular due to changing climates and unpredictable weather patterns.

So how can we make sure the environmental impact of greenhouses is limited? In this blog, we explore some of the different elements to consider and look at how aeroponics can help to maximise productivity, whilst reducing impact.

Construction

It’s important to take into account the initial environmental impact of building a greenhouse, especially when calculating its ongoing scope emissions. In the construction of a standard greenhouse, aluminum or steel is often used. Aluminum is infinitely recyclable - but the process is energy intensive and CO2 emissions from aluminum can be high, depending on where it’s sourced. Steel is considered to be more durable and more able to withstand extreme weather. These would be the most sustainable choices, but both with benefits and drawbacks to be considered.

Resource management

Operationally, there are many different resource elements to consider when running a greenhouse: from water, to pesticide and fertiliser use. With various irrigation system options, it’s possible to make significant improvements in water efficiency.

One of the most common irrigation systems in a greenhouse is hydroponics. By using LettUs Grow’s ultrasonic aeroponics, it’s possible to reduce water, fertiliser and pesticide use. In greenhouse trials, we’ve seen yield improvements of up to 20%, whilst using far less resources. Without the use of high-pressure nozzles which can easily become clogged and lead to downtime, greenhouse operations can run smoothly and efficiently with retrofittable Aeroponic Rolling Bench technology.