A new way to increase high tech food production in Wales has been launched by the Welsh government. It should also have a positive impact on climate change. The new Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) prospectus emphasizes the use of sustainable systems for growing food. Welsh food businesses are now being encouraged to adopt this technology-based approach, with systems such as hydroponics, aeroponics and vertical farming highlighted in particular.
CEA is intending to provide protection and maintain optimal growing conditions throughout the development of the crop, with production taking place within an enclosed growing structure. Systems like these are developed on a circular economy model including recycled heat, nutrients and renewable energy. CEA also helps to ensure minimal food waste. Advocates of this approach say it compliments traditional agriculture methods by producing the crops which cannot be easily grown in Wales and supplying produce all year round.
Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths said CEA had the potential to 'transform' the food supply chain while lowering the carbon footprint and the environmental impact of food production. “Creating a stronger, greener and fairer Wales is at the heart of what we want to achieve," the Minister told https://farminguk.com. “We all have concerns about climate change, declining natural resources and population growth - and the impact it has on the food on our plates. Together we have a real opportunity to deliver a greener Wales now and for our future generations."