Realising the Environmental Potential of Vertical Farming Systems through Advances in Plant Photobiology

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Vertical farming systems (VFS) have great potential for improving crop productivity but are energy-intensive, since light, temperature, and humidity each need to be controlled. In this review, we consider the challenges of incorporating renewable energy into VFS and highlight how light spectra, intensity, and daylength can be varied to influence the quality of crops. We propose that insights from plant photobiology can be utilised to optimise energy efficiency in this rapidly evolving sector. ABSTRACT: Intensive agriculture is essential to feed increasing populations, yet requires large amounts of pesticide, fertiliser, and water to maintain productivity. One solution to mitigate these issues is the adoption of Vertical Farming Systems (VFS). The self-contained operation of these facilities offers the potential to recycle agricultural inputs, as well as sheltering crops from the effects of climate change. Recent technological advancements in light-emitting diode (LED) lighting technology have enabled VFS to become a commercial reality, although high electrical consumption continues to tarnish the environmental credentials of the industry. In this review, we examine how the inherent use of electricity by VFS can be leveraged to deliver commercial and environmental benefits. We propose that an understanding of plant photobiology can be used to vary VFS energy consumption in coordination with electrical availability from the grid, facilitating demand-side management of energy supplies and promoting crop yield.