Researchers: Shamim Ahamed, Sazzadul Kabir
Project Summary: Hydroponic cultivation is commonly used for growing leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables in controlled environment agriculture (CEA) systems, which is efficient regarding land and water use efficiency, and crops can be grown year-round at the expense of energy. Besides energy and labor costs, the nutrient-rich discharge from existing practices is a critical challenge for CEA. Precision nutrient management can improve water use efficiency (WUE) and nutrient use efficiency (NUE), improve yield, and reduce environmental impacts. The University of California (UC), Davis will, 1) assess the environmental impact of hydroponic discharge, 2) develop an autonomous ion-based nutrient management system and evaluate its performance regarding NUE, WUE, and crop growth, 3) conduct a techno-economic and life-cycle analysis, and 4) outreach the new knowledge and technologies. Project outcomes will be evaluated through enhanced profitability and reduced environmental impacts.