Project Grant 20236801238994

Auburn University was awarded a $9,950,000 project grant from the United States Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture under the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) federal grant program (CFDA 10.310) to reimagine controlled environment agriculture in a low carbon world. Over a four year period ending March 2027, Auburn University and sub-awardees Tuskegee University, University of Florida, and Michigan State University will conduct research, education, and outreach to transform controlled environment agriculture strategically, managerially, technologically, and socially. Key objectives include reducing energy demand for heating and cooling in production environments, improving climate control efficiency, lowering the carbon intensity of inputs, and shifting consumer and producer behavior regarding sustainable practices. Outcomes will include new plant breeds more tolerant to temperature extremes, cropping strategies that lower energy usage, demonstration of bioenergy and wastewater reuse, optimal greenhouse controls, and consumer insights. These efforts aim to establish controlled environment agriculture as a viable low-carbon food production system and ensure long-term industry sustainability through appropriate reductions in energy usage and transition to clean energy sources.