A review of upgradation of energy-efficient sustainable commercial greenhouses in Middle East climatic conditions

Abstract

Greenhouse farming is considered as one of the most scientific approaches in agriculture, which are suitable for all climatic conditions, especially in Middle East, North America, and Europe. Sustainable greenhouses are innovative farming facilities for healthy vegetables and fruits in a controlled, conditioned indoor space. This article presents a literature review on the upgradation of a conventional to a sustainable greenhouse using modern engineering concept. This includes maintaining fully controlled indoor conditions such as temperature, relative humidity, and air velocity for specific agronomical parameters. The influence and improvements in upgradation of various heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) with the associated control systems and covering materials to reduce the energy consumption have been reviewed. Financial viability of conventional as well as upgraded greenhouses is highlighted. In Middle East climatic conditions, the major challenge is to control the optimal range of temperature (18–21°C), relative humidity (55 to 75%), and air velocity (0–1.3 m/s). It is found that the upgraded HVAC systems with climate control modules can increase the crop yield by 30%. Scientifically selected polycarbonate sheet covering materials are also found to increase the crop yield by up to 15% more than the conventional commercial greenhouses.

An Insightful Exploration of Protected Cultivation in Horticultural Crops: A Comprehensive Review

“…It takes into account all year creation, increments crop quality, and diminishes water and pesticide utilization. Arising advancements in safeguarded development: A few arising advances in protected cultivation incorporate the utilization of robots for crop checking, mechanical technology for gathering, accuracy farming methods [26], and the mix of Information of Things (IOT) answers for information assortment and examination [27] [29]. However, advances in technology and growing awareness of reasonable "cultivating practices" offer opportunities to overcome these challenges and increase the use of protected cultivation.…”

A Comprehensive Review on Protected Cultivation: Importance, Scope and Status

“…Possibilities and obstacles in protected agriculture Although protected horticulture presents a multitude of potential, it is not without its drawbacks. These consist of the original setup expenses, energy usage, appropriate upkeep, and guaranteeing the best possible environmental circumstances for crop growth [44]. But there are chances to overcome these obstacles and increase the use of protected agriculture thanks to technological improvements and growing public knowledge of sustainable agricultural methods.…”

A Comprehensive Review on Protected Cultivation of Horticultural Crops: Present Status and Future Prospects

“…Challenges and opportunities in protected cultivation: While protected cultivation offers numerous opportunities, it also faces some challenges. These include initial setup costs, energy consumption, proper maintenance, and ensuring optimal environmental conditions for crop growth [42]. However, advancements in technology and increasing awareness about sustainable farming practices present opportunities for overcoming these challenges and expanding the use of protected cultivation.…”