Maximize In-house Data to Improve Results
February 20, 2025 The controlled environment agriculture (CEA) industry is at a pivotal moment, as it continues to evolve with advancements in data collection, integration, and artificial intelligence (AI). Leaders like Adam Greenberg, CEO of IUNU, have developed solutions that aim to redefine how growers approach efficiency and scalability in modern agriculture.
In this article, we delve into the key insights shared during a recent CropTalk podcast, exploring the challenges and opportunities presented by integration and data-driven technologies in CEA.
The Evolution of Integration in CEA
Five years ago, integration in the CEA industry was a daunting task, requiring growers to build their own systems without the benefit of robust APIs (Application Programming Interfaces). Today, most machines and technologies used in greenhouses come equipped with APIs, enabling systems to communicate more effectively. However, challenges remain, particularly with companies charging fees for growers to access their own data—a practice that Greenberg views as a significant barrier to industry growth.
“APIs should be table stakes,” Greenberg asserts. “Growers own their data and should have free access to it. The real value lies in the analysis and insights derived from that data, not in restricting access to it.”
This shift toward open-access APIs is crucial as the industry strives for seamless integration across various greenhouse technologies.
The Role of Data Ownership and Proprietary Insights
Data is often described as the lifeblood of modern industries, and CEA is no exception. However, the debate over data ownership is far from resolved. Greenberg emphasizes the importance of growers maintaining control over their data to ensure they can leverage proprietary insights without fear of exposing their operations to competitors.
“If growers don’t own their data,” Greenberg warns, “they risk losing their competitive edge. Proprietary data allows them to ask the right questions and derive actionable insights that drive success.”
To illustrate this point, Greenberg discusses the concept of crop registration—the process of measuring and tracking plant growth metrics like stem width, flowering speed, and fruit development. Historically, growers relied on manual sampling of a small subset of plants, which often led to inaccurate forecasts. By automating this process with advanced sensors and machine vision, growers can now analyze thousands of plants in the same time it previously took to sample a few dozen, leading to more accurate and actionable data.
The Intersection of AI and New Data Types
AI is transforming industries worldwide. Yet, Greenberg is quick to point out that the true value of AI lies in pairing it with new types of data. While traditional CEA metrics like temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels remain essential, they’re no longer sufficient on their own.
“To truly add value,” Greenberg explains, “you need new data types alongside new analyses. For instance, using cameras to capture stem diameter or pest pressure at scale provides insights that traditional methods can’t match.”
This approach ensures that growers aren’t simply applying AI to outdated datasets but are instead leveraging cutting-edge data to gain a competitive advantage. As AI models become commoditized, the differentiator will be the unique, high-quality data that growers collect and analyze.
Integration as the Conductor in a Greenhouse Symphony
Greenberg likens the future of CEA to a well-orchestrated symphony, with integration serving as the conductor. Automation technologies—from de-leafing machines to UVC robots—act as individual instruments, each contributing to the overall harmony of a greenhouse operation. The challenge lies in ensuring these systems work seamlessly together, a task that requires robust integration and data standardization.
As the CEA industry continues to mature, the integration of innovative technologies, robust data analysis, and clear data ownership policies will be critical.
“The future of CEA lies in collaboration and transparency,” Greenberg says. “By empowering growers with the right data and technologies, we can build a more sustainable and profitable industry for everyone.”
Editor’s note: This article was adapted with permission from KB CEA Consulting.