RedSea, the sustainable AgTech business, has been awarded the prestigious Davidson Prize for its iyris Heat-Blocking Roof technology. The award recognizes RedSea’s contribution to sustainable agriculture and promotes the development of innovative technologies that can positively impact growers and promote sustainable growth. The iyris Heat-Blocking Roof is a cutting-edge technology that can reduce energy expenditure and water consumption by over 25%. Developed and patented by RedSea’s Co-Founder and Chief Engineer, Professor Derya Baran, the technology enables global commercial farming in hot climates, making it a world leader in sustainable agriculture technology.
RedSea’s global appeal has been underlined by its milestone first US technology sale – in Florida. The company provided its iyris Heat-Blocking roof to the Florida-based, Perfect Choice Nursery. The successful sale highlights the potential impact that the technology can have on commercial farming in hot climates globally. Through the rigor of science, RedSea offers pioneering, needs-based design of sustainable agriculture technologies for the world’s hottest climates. The company’s technology is now used by growers globally in seven countries.
Commenting on the award and the milestone US sale, Ryan Lefers, the company’s CEO & co-founder, said, “To be one of only three products selected to receive this award is a tribute to RedSea’s technology development, which positively impacts growers and promotes sustainable growth. The iyris Heat-Blocking Greenhouse Roof is new, cutting-edge technology with potential for high impact.”
Farming In Scorching Temperatures: A Paradigm Shift?
Farming in hot climates presents numerous challenges that can negatively impact crop yields, including water scarcity, extreme temperatures, and soil degradation. Hot climates often experience prolonged dry spells, reducing water availability and making irrigation crucial for crop growth. However, excessive water use can lead to soil salinity and erosion, reducing soil fertility and decreasing crop yields. Additionally, high temperatures can cause plant stress and heat damage, leading to reduced growth and lower crop yields. Moreover, hot climates can increase pest and disease pressures, reducing crop yields.
In recent years, various technologies have emerged that enable farming in deserts, previously uninhabitable terrain for crops. These technologies include the restriction of water usage, the enhancement of insulation within farming facilities, and the use of old techniques to naturally cool temperatures. With an increasing focus on achieving food security, countries in the Middle East have seen a rise in farming production in desert regions. This paradigm shift has enabled countries not traditionally farmers to become leading producers of specific categories of fruits and vegetables. These technologies have enabled food security in the region and boosted the economy through the export of these crops. The success of these technologies in arid regions also presents opportunities for countries facing similar environmental challenges to adopt innovative farming techniques and increase their agricultural production.
Image provided by RedSea
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