S08 - Session P6 - Innovations in high tech horticulture as a driver of food system transition

Authors: Annie Drottberger *, Sara Spendrup, Karl-Johan Bergstrand, Fredrik Fernqvist, Marie-Claude Dubois, Lena Ekelund Axelson

Society is facing serious challenges including climate change, loss of biodiversity and destruction of natural ecosystems. This occurs in combination with an increasing population and urbanization, which puts pressure for increased food production and a transformation of the food system to more sustainable production. In the case of indoor cultivation of leafy vegetables, a solution may be to address the sustainability challenges through new knowledge and the adoption of technical innovations. New firms and production systems with advanced technologies are rapidly developing and they are often established in urban environments closer to consumers. This study investigated the adoption of knowledge and innovations in horticultural firms, focusing on high-tech greenhouse production and Plant Factories with Artificial Lighting (PFAL) in Swedish urban and peri-urban areas. Interviews with a qualitative approach were made with key stakeholders leading the production in high-tech indoor cultivation facilities across Sweden. Additional observations were made at main production sites, and complementary interviews were made with actors in the innovation system, e.g. universities, suppliers, buyers and the firms' networks. The main results outlined the importance of technical innovations as a driver of the food system's transition towards higher levels of sustainability. Implications for research and practice are discussed, as well as the roles of future technologies in reaching sustainability goals.