In October, LettUs Grow unveiled a groundbreaking collaboration with the University of Surrey, setting the stage for the development of an aeroponic greenhouse system tailored for the propagation of willow trees. This visionary project, generously funded by the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero, is a pivotal step in harnessing innovative agricultural technology to help the UK government meet its biomass and tree planting targets.
The UK’s ambitious Net Zero Strategy has set its sights on bolstering biomass integration into the nation’s energy network while ensuring a sustainable supply of biomass, both domestically and through imports. A core challenge is to expand the biomass supply without compromising food security, and this is where the concept of propagating trees takes center stage.
Over a year into the endeavor, the TAEDA Tech project has made remarkable strides in propagating willow trees using aeroponics, within the confines of their new polytunnel and greenhouse location in Surrey. This controlled environment offers unparalleled control over cultivation conditions, including temperature and light levels, creating an ideal setting for their innovative work.
A central component of this project is the meticulously designed aeroponic system, custom-tailored to serve the unique needs of the initiative. The initial stages of trials have primarily focused on optimizing the operational aspects of the growth process. Aeroponics, a sophisticated irrigation method, involves supplying water and nutrients to plant roots through a fine mist, maximizing oxygen levels and consequently accelerating growth rates.
Dr. Zoe M Harris, Senior Lecturer in the Centre for Environment and Sustainability at the University of Surrey, shared her excitement about this pioneering approach, stating, “Using aeroponics is great fun! It’s very simple to run and intuitive. We’ve adapted to the system really well, the team has dealt with any challenges we’ve thrown their way, and we’ve got something that meets our needs. It’s been a really collaborative process.”
The upcoming phases of the project will explore an alternative growing environment within a polytunnel, delving further into the economic viability of cultivating willow in this manner. The project team is targeting the construction of another system by March of the upcoming year, aligning with the planting season, with a keen focus on plant physiology and their diverse responses to the innovative infrastructures.
Lilly Manzoni, Head of Research & Development at LettUs Grow, expressed her enthusiasm for supporting the TAEDA Tech project, marking a significant departure from the traditional use of aeroponics primarily for leafy greens or herbs within a greenhouse environment. She emphasized the vital role of increasing the use of renewable energy in the UK for the sustainability and success of controlled environment agriculture. Being directly involved in its production represents a full-circle opportunity for LettUs Grow, reflecting their commitment to innovation and sustainability.
The LettUs Grow and University of Surrey collaboration promises to pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future in the realm of biomass production, showcasing the transformative potential of aeroponics and controlled environment agriculture.