The Future of Robotics in CEA: Will Humans Be Replaced?

Robotics and Horticulture: I-Grow Inside Seminar Explores Robotics’ Role in Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA)

On Tuesday, November 19, the World Horti Center will host the eighth annual I-Grow Inside seminar, focusing this year on the intersection of robotics and human labor in controlled environment agriculture (CEA). Under the theme, “Will Robotics Take Over Humans in CEA?”, a panel of industry professionals will discuss how robotics are reshaping horticulture, the challenges growers face, and the steps involved in adopting robotic solutions. The event will be held at the World Horti Center in Naaldwijk, Netherlands, with an option for virtual participation, ensuring accessibility for a global audience interested in this pivotal industry shift.

The Rise of Robotics in Horticulture

Robotics in horticulture, once a far-off idea, is quickly becoming an industry standard. From robots that pick and pack tomatoes to drones that monitor and maintain greenhouse conditions, technology is evolving rapidly. Innovations in automation, powered by advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics, are creating systems that can work seamlessly within greenhouses and indoor farms.

While these technologies present exciting opportunities, they also raise important questions. Many growers are cautiously optimistic yet hesitant about fully committing to automation. They wonder, When is the right time to make the transition? and How will this impact business operations, worker roles, and the quality of produce?

The I-Grow Inside seminar will serve as a platform to address these concerns, offering insights on how to strike a balance between traditional methods and advanced technology. As stated by World Horti Center, collaboration between technology developers and growers is essential for advancing the horticulture sector, with each group contributing to a future where innovation and tradition co-exist.

Exploring Key Questions: Will Robotics Take Over Human Labor?

The central question posed by the seminar—Will robotics take over humans in CEA?—is a timely one as growers grapple with the implications of automation. In some areas of CEA, robots have already proven their worth by taking on labor-intensive tasks like planting, watering, and harvesting. The technology is not just faster; it can also provide consistent quality, which is critical for industries like horticulture where precision is key.

However, robotics in horticulture remains a new frontier. Many innovations are still in the experimental phase, and adoption rates vary widely depending on a grower’s resources, expertise, and willingness to adapt. While larger operations may have the capital to invest in robotics, smaller farms often struggle with the upfront costs, even if the long-term savings could be substantial.

Timo Kleijwegt, Sales & Product Manager at Certhon, highlights that robotics is reshaping the industry, saying, “Automation in horticulture isn’t just about replacing jobs; it’s about creating a more efficient, sustainable production system.” However, he notes that there is still some skepticism within the industry, largely because of the experimental nature of many robotic technologies. “For this change to be successful, there must be a strong partnership between developers and growers,” he adds, underscoring the importance of co-creation in navigating this new era.

Meet the Panel: Industry Experts Weigh In

This year’s seminar will feature a panel of three seasoned experts in horticulture technology, who will provide a range of perspectives on robotics in CEA. The panel includes:

Timo Kleijwegt, Sales & Product Manager at Certhon, specializing in horticultural systems and automation

Boy de Nijs, Product Manager of Labor & Robotics at Ridder, with extensive experience in labor solutions for horticulture

Renko Schuil, Sales Manager of Indoor Farming at TTA, known for his insights into indoor farming technologies

The discussion will be moderated by Matthijs van den Beukel, who will pose challenging questions and statements to the panel. Van den Beukel will also facilitate a Q&A session with the audience, giving both in-person and virtual attendees an opportunity to interact with the experts directly. This session promises to tackle real-world concerns and uncertainties that growers face, from cost barriers to technology adaptability and the effect on existing labor.

Event Details: How to Attend I-Grow Inside

The seminar will take place on Tuesday, November 19, at the World Horti Center, located at Europa 1 in Naaldwijk, Netherlands. The event begins at 2:30 p.m. CET, with doors opening for attendees at 2:00 p.m. Following the one-hour seminar, a networking reception will run until 5:00 p.m. CET, providing a chance for attendees to engage with industry experts and fellow growers.

For those who cannot attend in person, the event will be available to stream online from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. CET, offering a valuable opportunity for a global audience to participate in the discussion. Registration is free and can be completed through the World Horti Center’s website or via a link provided by the organization.

The I-Grow Theme Square: A Hub of Innovation in CEA

The I-Grow Inside seminar series is part of the I-Grow theme square at the World Horti Center, which serves as a dedicated space for innovation in CEA. This theme square showcases the benefits of modern cultivation techniques, highlighting the potential of high-tech greenhouses and indoor farms to revolutionize food production.

World Horti Center’s theme square has become a source of inspiration for diverse groups, from students and budding entrepreneurs to policymakers and global leaders. Its emphasis on collaboration between industry stakeholders provides a model for how technological advancements, such as robotics, can be integrated into horticulture sustainably and efficiently. Companies partnering with World Horti Center bring cutting-edge technology to the theme square, demonstrating robotics and automation’s practical applications to a wide range of visitors.

The Future of Robotics in Horticulture: Key Takeaways

Robotics in horticulture is a field poised for significant growth, but it requires careful implementation and a collaborative approach between developers and growers. The panel at I-Grow Inside will likely cover several key takeaways:

Identifying the Right Time for Transition – As growers consider automation, they must weigh costs, scalability, and the specific needs of their operation. Robotics adoption does not need to be a one-size-fits-all approach, and experts will share insights on how to determine the right time for each business.

Co-Creation as a Success Factor – Successful integration of robotics depends on a partnership between developers and growers. By working together, they can address challenges specific to horticulture, such as crop sensitivity and environmental sustainability.

Balancing Efficiency with Job Security – Automation in horticulture has the potential to alleviate labor shortages, particularly in roles requiring repetitive tasks. However, it also raises questions about job displacement, making it essential to view robotics as a tool for enhancing productivity rather than replacing the human workforce entirely.

Environmental and Economic Sustainability – Automation and robotics can help horticulture move toward a more sustainable model, reducing waste and improving energy efficiency. Experts are expected to address how robotic systems can contribute to environmentally friendly practices that benefit growers and consumers alike.

A Pivotal Moment for the Industry

As the horticulture industry stands on the brink of an automation revolution, events like I-Grow Inside provide valuable forums for discussion and knowledge-sharing. Robotics in CEA holds transformative potential, but the journey requires a collaborative approach, careful planning, and a clear understanding of how these technologies impact the people behind the produce.

The panel’s insights on November 19 will help shape the future of robotics in horticulture, offering guidance for growers who are eager to learn more about embracing technology while preserving the traditions and care that define the industry. For those interested in the future of food production, I-Grow Inside promises a glimpse into what’s possible when innovation meets agriculture.