Challenge Australia’s protected cropping sector is highly dependent on imported proprietary technologies designed for Northern European climates, posing challenges for optimal facility design and operation in Southern Hemisphere conditions.
Solution A scoping project was conducted to assess industry needs, global best practices, and emerging technological trends in facility configuration, lighting, IoT, and automation. The project provided a comprehensive survey of local industry requirements, a strategic review of global innovations, and actionable recommendations for future research. Additionally, it included an assessment of pathways for commercialisation, with a focus on overcoming barriers to domestic manufacturing and learning from successful industry exemplars.
Impact The project delivered critical insights that will guide future research and technology development tailored to Southern Hemisphere conditions. The findings also outlined strategies to foster local manufacturing capabilities, potentially reducing reliance on imported systems and promoting the adoption of advanced vertical and artificial light facilities in urban areas, closer to end consumers.
