GoodLeaf Farms and Guelph University partner to advance vertical farming

GoodLeaf Farms and the University of Guelph are building a partnership to further advancements in vertical farming.

A memorandum of understanding between Canada’s largest commercial vertical farm and one of the nation’s leading agricultural universities seeks to build stronger links between theoretical research and development in processes and technology, and practical application in the field.

“Some of the best and most innovative agricultural research in Canada happens at the University of Guelph,” says Barry Murchie, CEO, GoodLeaf. “Building on the vertical farm technology we have already developed and are using, it will be exciting to see where this partnership can take us.”

Through this collaboration, both GoodLeaf and the University of Guelph are aiming to build on the existing science and engineering of vertical farming.

Some of the projects currently under way include research into:

• enhancing yields, plant science and new product development;
• substrates, growing compounds and microbiology; and
• human resources and training future experts in the field of vertical farming.

“This partnership embodies something that’s incredibly important at University of Guelph — connecting our research with the world to improve life,” says Malcolm Campbell, vice-president (research) at the University of Guelph. “As our stellar researchers find ways to advance the vertical farming industry, their innovations will be tested and used in real-time, which means real-world impact — a more sustainable food system for Canadians.”