Romania’s Pioneering Vertical Farm heralds a Green Revolution
Nestled in the heart of Europe, Romania’s agricultural scene is witnessing a paradigm shift, spearheaded by Cristian Tudor, a visionary in horticulture.
His brainchild, Ultragreens, is not just a company but a beacon of sustainable agricultural practices. Since its inception in 2014, Ultragreens has trailblazed a path in the realm of microgreens, revolutionizing the concept of farming in Romania and beyond.
The Genesis of a Green Movement
Cristian Tudor’s journey began with a simple yet profound idea – to grow microgreens. These tiny yet mighty greens are not only nutritional powerhouses but also champions of a sustainable future.
Under Tudor’s guidance, Ultragreens has cultivated over 200 million plants, a testament to the company’s commitment to green, digital, and modern farming methods. This incredible feat caught the attention of heavyweights like the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Union (EU), who have since become pivotal supporters.
Hydroponic Pioneers: The Microsera Revolution
“Back in 2018, we designed our own hydroponic microgreens system, named Microsera, now available in Romania and Bulgaria,” recalls Tudor. This innovative system, resembling miniature plots, found its home in supermarkets, revolutionizing the way stores supply fresh produce.
The Microsera not only boosts sales but significantly reduces transportation costs and carbon footprints, embodying Ultragreens’ ethos of sustainability.
Scaling New Heights: Romania’s First Vertical Hydroponic Farm
In 2022, Ultragreens, in collaboration with Kaufland Romania, unveiled the nation’s first vertical hydroponic farm. This marvel of modern agriculture spans 1,250 square meters and features plants thriving across seven levels.
The choice of hydroponic vertical farming aligns perfectly with Ultragreens’ sustainability goals, offering year-round production, enhanced yields, and an astonishing 95% reduction in water usage compared to traditional farming.
Digital Mastery: Software That Powers a Green Future
The EBRD and EU have played a crucial role in developing cutting-edge software that keeps Ultragreens’ vertical farm operating flawlessly.
This modular solution, adaptable to any vertical facility, can be managed remotely, showcasing the integration of technology and agriculture.
Impactful Milestones: A Year in Numbers
A year since its inception, the vertical farm’s impact is undeniable: 1.2 million plants grown, 3,000 cubic meters of water conserved, and a reduction of over 34,000 kilometres in transport, significantly slashing costs and cutting down 12 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
Thinking Big: The Future of Automated Hydroponic Farming
Ultragreens is now gearing up for its next venture – an expansive, fully automated hydroponic farm spanning over 7,000 square meters. “Unlike traditional methods, this farm will resemble a production-line, ensuring efficiency and precision,” Tudor explains.
This innovative approach will minimize human error, guaranteeing pesticide-free crops and cleaner food. The farm’s design and management software, developed with the EBRD and EU’s assistance, will streamline operations, from seed planting to harvest forecasting.
The Global Impact: Addressing Climate Change and Resource Scarcity
Cristian Tudor and Ultragreens stand at the forefront of combating global challenges like climate change and resource scarcity. Their innovative solutions in agriculture are not just about producing food but reshaping the future of farming. The EBRD and its donors are pivotal in this journey, fostering green innovation and sustainability across the globe.
Ultragreens’ journey from a novel idea to a revolutionary force in sustainable agriculture is more than just a success story; it’s a blueprint for the future. As the world grapples with environmental challenges, initiatives like Ultragreens, supported by organizations like the EBRD and the EU, light the way towards a greener, more sustainable planet.
