Assessing the Physical and Environmental Aspects of Greenhouse Cultivation: A Comprehensive Review of Conventional and Hydroponic Methods

Abstract

Population growth has presented several challenges in terms of energy, food supply, and environmental protection. The agricultural industry plays a crucial role in addressing these challenges by implementing innovative technologies that optimize resource utilization, minimize environmental impacts, and increase food production. Among these technologies, greenhouse cultivation systems have garnered substantial attention due to their ability to create a controlled environment for crop growth, resulting in higher yields, improved quality, and reduced water usage. However, it is important to note that greenhouse cultivation technology is also one of the most energy-intensive sectors within agriculture, contributing significantly to global energy consumption. Despite this, the technology remains popular due to its efficiency in optimizing inputs, increasing production per unit area, enabling year-round crop production, and managing unfavorable environmental conditions such as pests, diseases, and extreme weather events. There are two primary greenhouse cultivation systems: conventional and hydroponic methods. Each system has distinct similarities and differences regarding energy consumption, crop production per unit area, and environmental impacts. In this study, we compare conventional and hydroponic greenhouse cultivation, analyzing various inputs such as temperature, light, and energy consumption. Our findings indicate that hydroponic systems, equipped with advanced control equipment and growth mediums, create optimal conditions for plant growth. Also, hydroponics offered 11 ± 1.7 times higher yields but required 82 ± 11 times more energy compared to those conventionally produced in some plant productions. Moreover, specific energy consumption increased by 17% compared to conventional cultivation for some vegetables. This information can be used to optimize energy usage, reduce costs, and promote sustainable crop production, thereby contributing to global food security and environmental sustainability.