March-April 2022 edition/ Gulf Agriculture

MARCH

APRIL

2022

Y O U R G AT E WAY T O T H E M I D D L E E A S T A G R I B U S I N E S S

19

FlowerTrials ® preview

21 Discover Rizocyn, the natural biostimulant for young plants

24

In the desert RDI is creating farmlands

29

Fendt concentrates on self-propelled field sprayers

30

New Zealand & UAE highlight agricultural research cooperation

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Contents Editor M. Matt Associate Editor Jessie Jorge Graphic Design Elizabeth John Contributors Dr. Hansel Geo Thomas Neville J. Chandler Shakeeb Kolakadan Registered Office Matt Media Intl. Ltd. 12 Gateway Mews London N11 2UT United Kingdom US Office Matt Media (USA) LLC. 1713 E. Morgan Court Gilbert, Arizona 85295 Middle East Offices Matt Media LLC. Sharjah Media City United Arab Emirates Al Saad Adv. & Publishing LLC P O Box 25694, Sharjah United Arab Emirates info@gulfagriculture.com www.gulfagriculture.com Gulf Agriculture is a publication from Matt Media Intl. Ltd. (UK) and is read by agri professionals, farm managers & owners, landscape consultants, contractors, agri-equipment suppliers, horticultural engineers, greenhouse managers, agronomists, veterinary surgeons, ministries, poultry & dairy breeders, importers, distributors, manufacturers and wholesalers of food and agri inputs.

19 News

04

FlowerTrials Preview

19

Herbicides

20

Biostimulants

21

32

Peat & Substrates 22 Planter Bags

23

Irrigation

24

Agricultural Machinery

28

Agricultural Research

30

38

22

IN THE DESERT RDI IS

All rights reserved. The opinions and views expressed in the publication are not necessarily those of the publishers.

Readers are requested to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the readers particular circumstances. The publishers regret that they cannot accept liabilities on any error or emissions contained in this publication.

Printed and published by Matt Media© Intl. Ltd.(U.K.) 2022

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Why is RDI trying to grow crops in open fields in the Desert?

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24

Greenhouses

32

Desert Farming

34

Dutch Floriculture

36

Livestock farming

40

March-April 2022

environmental scien�sts that the desert can support crop produc�on, offering an affordable

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News MINISTER OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND ENVIRONMENT UNVEILS E-VET GATE Her Excellency Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, inaugurated E-Vet Gate, the first digital platform in the world dedicated to veterinary products.

Accessible through the website and app of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), E-Vet Gate serves as a complete reference for safe and certified veterinary pharmaceutical products registered in the UAE. The move aligns with MOCCAE’s mandate to implement the Federal Law

No. 9 of 2017 regulating the handling, trading, marketing, and circulation of veterinary products that aims to curb illegal activities across these processes.

Her Excellency Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri said: “Developing animal wealth is a core priority of the Ministry as part of its goal to enhance food security. We have established an integrated approach to achieving this objective, including close monitoring of veterinary products. In this context, we are proud to launch E-Vet Gate as a valuable comprehensive source of information on the specifications and uses of approved veterinary products traded in UAE markets.”

Through educating veterinarians and livestock

breeders about veterinary pharmaceutical products, E-Vet Gate seeks to ensure that only licensed products sourced from reliable suppliers are traded. This will boost animal health and productivity, safeguard public health, and keep zoonoses at bay, strengthening biosecurity in the UAE. Improving the safety of animal-based food products will increase their contribution to local production and support the livestock sector in the country.

E-Vet Gate will be updated regularly, adding new products along with their information, such as package inserts, manufacturers, and local distributors. The user-friendly tool offers multiple channels to submit constructive suggestions.

AGRITECHNICA ASIA & HORTI ASIA EVENT IN THAILAND AWAITS 300 INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITORS The third edition of AGRITECHNICA ASIA will be held from 25-27 May 2022 at BITEC, Bangkok, Thailand, in conjunction with Horti Asia, the region’s largest trade exhibition for smart horticulture in Asia, and the special exhibition Systems & Components Asia.

Registered exhibitors from 26 countries have greeted the news that quarantine for vaccinated travelers to Thailand is no longer needed. Supported by the official co-host, the Thai Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, and with 300 exhibitors expected, the trade fair’s theme is sustainable production.

“More and more countries in Southeast Asia are opening their borders to quarantine-free travel.

Seeing these developments, we are looking forward to a high

international turnout of exhibitors with so much to offer Southeast Asian farmers,” said Ms. Katharina Staske, Managing Director of DLG’s office in Thailand.

“Smart farming as sustainability solutions, vertical farming and even cannabis production are just some of the many highlights that farmers can discover in Bangkok in 2022. The Industry Ministry is planning to make Thailand a hub of cannabis businesses to produce new products in the medical sector and support tourism. So I think it is the perfect time to bring this topic to our exhibitions,” said Panadda Kongma, Director Agribusiness & Operations

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of VNU Asia Pacific.

AGRITECHNICA ASIA presents agricultural engineering solutions, inputs and smart solutions that support the development of agriculture in the Asian markets.

Mechanization through modern machinery will increase significantly in the next decade, spurred on by worsening labor shortages, increased competition and pressure to reduce production costs.

March-April 2022

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News BRAZIL AND UAE DISCUSS INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS AND TECHNOLOGIES In line with international initiatives that promote innovative and sustainable agricultural practices to achieve sustainability and

food security, the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil) hosted the ‘Brazil-UAE Agri Talks,’ in association with the Arab Brazilian Chamber of Commerce (ABCC).

The high-level event brought attention to the

potential of the Brazilian agribusiness sector and UAE’s holistic approach to food security during the forum, which was held recently at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Dubai. The event also provided a platform for the participants to network and engage with business leaders from Brazil’s

AL RAWABI TO SET UP AED 650 MILLION DAIRY PRODUCTION FACILITY IN KIZAD

KIZAD, part of AD Ports Group’s Economic Cities & Free Zones (EC&FZ) cluster, announced the signing of a lease agreement with Al Rawabi, one of the leading dairy and juice companies in the UAE, for the establishment of a dairy production facility in Abu Dhabi designed to meet growing consumer demand.

Under this agreement, Al Rawabi will initially develop two square kilometres in KIZAD with an additional three square kilometres slated for the future. The dairy farm, with an investment of AED 650 million will be home to 10,000 Al Rawabi cows and increase their export efforts across the wider GCC region.

Abdullah Al Hameli, Head of Economic Cities & Free Zones Cluster, said: “Al Rawabi’s confidence in KIZAD is a testament to AD Ports Group’s commitment to driving the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy through the

supply of high-quality dairy and food products, while also contributing to the growth of the nation’s industrial sector.

In addition to supporting the advancement of local farms and creating job opportunities in the local farming sector, our agreement presents a positive boost for regional consumers by offering easier access to fresh produce.”

Prof. Dr. Ahmed El Tigani, CEO, Al Rawabi, said: “Al Rawabi’s investment in KIZAD’s food ecosystem will enable us to service a broader scope of consumers both in the UAE and the wider region.

The strategic location, access to food-related services, and readiness of land area in KIZAD will help Al Rawabi grow its operations longterm, increasing business reach and potential export across markets.

“Today, Al Rawabi can look forward to growing market share in the UAE, GCC, and Africa by

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leveraging the strategic location in KIZAD that offers a fully integrated trade and logistics platform to facilitate export across the emirates and the region. We expect to produce 23 million litres in the first operational year out of KIZAD, and to move approximately 1,000 containers of goods annually.”

Driven by a workforce of over 200 skilled people, Al Rawabi’s dairy production facility in KIZAD will include milk parlours, a dairy plant, a mechanic and maintenance workshop, a feed factory, staff accommodation, and a biogas plant, along with fertilizer manufacturing amenities that will also support the wider agriculture ecosystem in Abu Dhabi.

Al Rawabi will apply the latest technologies in processing waste resulting from the project that will include the production of green energy. Additionally, 10 megawatts of clean power will be generated by equipping a large portion of site assets with solar panels, reducing the operational costs and CO2 emissions at the site.

Al Rawabi will also benefit from proximity to KIZAD’s recently launched Regional Food Hub – Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with Rungis, set to be one of the region’s largest multi-category wholesale food trading and logistics platforms.

March-April 2022

News agribusiness sector, such as representatives from EMBRAPA, the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation.

The ceremony was attended

by Mauro Mendes, the Governor of Mato Grosso, Júlio Busato, President of the Brazilian Association of Cotton Producers (ABRAPA), and Joaquim Leite, the Minister of the Environment of Brazil, who participated by videoconference. Agri Talks also saw the launch of the Floresta+ – a program initiated for the cotton sector.

The discussions also shed light on Brazil's agribusiness sector, which marked USD 1.4 billion in exports to the UAE in 2021. USD 694.5 million 255 million from sugar, USD 155.1 million from frozen meat of bovine animals and USD 17.96 million from coffee are the amounts of revenue generated from product export in the agribusiness in 2021. UAE was the 3rd main arab destination for Brazilian exports in the agribusiness sector.

The talk also marked the presence of top officials from Brazil and the UAE and featured insightful discussions led by industry experts on key topics such as the UAE and Brazil government policies to support a sustainable future, projects and initiatives for sustainable development in the agricultural sector, innovation driven productivity, and profitability in agriculture projects and financing the agribusiness sector.

The event also showcased the UAE's initiatives towards ensuring food security and attaining sustainability in the food industry.

March-April 2022

DUBAI MUNICIPALITY ANNOUNCES 62 PER CENT COMPLETION OF WORLD'S LARGEST WASTE TREATMENT FACILITY Dubai Municipality announced that the construction of the Dubai Waste Management Centre (DWMC) in Warsan, the

world’s largest and most efficient energy project of its kind, is now 62 per cent complete. The project will contribute to the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, launched

by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

The Municipality pointed that

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News more than 3.8 million working hours were spent to date by 30 companies tapped to carry out contracting, supply, and consulting services. By 2024, the facility will treat approximately 5,666 tonnes of solid waste across five burning lines daily, with 12,480 air filters to treat all emissions. The waste will be converted into energy, which will then be utilized to feed the local electricity grid with about 200 MW/h of clean energy.

Eng. Dawood Al Hajri, Director General of Dubai Municipality, said that the strategic Dubai Waste Management Centre has sustainable development, economic, and environmental dimensions. It is the first globally in terms of size and work efficiency. Occupying a total area of more than 400,000 sqm, the plant will have an operational capacity to process 1.9 million tonnes of waste annually and will be capable of

converting them into energy resources to meet the needs of Warsan Sewage Treatment Plant and the DWMC, which is equivalent to the consumption of over 135,000 households.

The Municipality said that the installation of the facility’s generators, which will provide electricity produced from waste treatment, and the turbine engines are completed.

Once operational, the centre will treat 45 per cent of the current municipal waste

FRIESLANDCAMPINA AND DSM TAKE MAJOR STEP TO REDUCE GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS FROM DAIRY CATTLE It’s a European first by FrieslandCampina: a large-scale pilot project to gain practical experience with Bovaer®, DSM’s innovative feed additive that consistently reduces methane emissions from cows by around 30 percent. Following EU approval for the additive’s use in February 2022, the parties have decided to launch this pilot immediately. The Dutch feed supplier Agrifirm will supply the feed additive to the participating farmers. Through innovations like this, Dutch dairy farmers can build on sustainability improvements over recent years and contribute to a sustainable food production system.

The Bovaer® pilot collaboration between the Dutch companies FrieslandCampina, DSM, and Agrifirm marks an important step forward in increasing the sustainability of the dairy sector.

Some 200 FrieslandCampina dairy farms in the Netherlands will take part in the pilot in the second half of 2022. Providing the results are positive, the use of Bovaer® will be further upscaled from 2023.

Bovaer® is a feed additive for cows and other ruminants. DSM has researched and developed this additive over ten years. Just a quarter of a teaspoon of Bovaer® added daily to each cow’s feed will enable a consistent reduction in methane emissions of 30 percent, on average. This feed additive therefore contributes to a significant and immediate reduction in the environmental footprint of meat and dairy products. With

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its Food System Commitments, DSM addresses several of the most urgent societal and environmental challenges facing the world’s food consumption and production up to 2030. One of its commitments is to enable a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in dairy production. Since the end of last year, Bovaer® has been approved for use in Brazil and Chile, and, at the start of 2022, it also received EU approval.

Together with its member dairy farmers, FrieslandCampina, aims to achieve a 33 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions on its farms by 2030. To this end, the dairy cooperative is working on various solutions, such as generating sustainable energy on farms, using guaranteed deforestation-free soy in cattle feed, and thanks to this project reducing cow methane emission using Bovaer®. Previous tests with Bovaer® at the Dairy Campus in Leeuwarden showed an average reduction in methane in enteric emissions per kilogram of milk of 30 percent. This leads to a reduction of approximately 10 percent in CO2 footprint.

March-April 2022

News volume in Dubai. The plant is designed to accommodate 1,000 trucks per day, approximately 88 trucks per hour. The recycled bottom ash from generated by the process will be used in infrastructure projects. The project will also use recycled water from the Warsan sewage treatment plant (STP), which will promote circular economy and sustainability.

The Dubai Municipality has implemented its action plans under the Dubai Integrated Waste Management Strategy, which aims to reduce and divert waste from landfills by 2030 and address the power needs of Dubai's growing population and economy. The Municipality also plays a central role in the

March-April 2022

implementation of Dubai Integrated Waste Management Strategy 2021-2041, which aims to promote innovation in the management, recycling, and conversion of waste into energy to achieve almost zero hazardous waste by 2041.

HAMLET PROTEIN FEATURED IN GLOBAL THOUGHT LEADERS’ SERIES Hamlet Protein, global leader in vegetable protein solutions for young animal nutrition, is featuring in the 50 Global Leaders Series. A series of documentary films, being broadcast by Reuters, shows how industries are set to evolve in a rapidly changing landscape and how they

create and harness new opportunities in a sustainable manner.

Hamlet Protein represents the animal nutrition industry in the segment dedicated to ‘Global Food Security – The Evolution of Livestock Nutrition Management.’

Against the backdrop of an increasing demand for safe feed and food, the movie explores how Hamlet Protein can contribute to feeding a growing world population.

“We are honored to be part of this documentary series, alongside other global companies, and to be recognized as a leading company in our industry,” commented Hamlet Protein CEO Erik Visser.

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News AIM FOR CLIMATE SEEKS TO DOUBLE INVESTMENT IN CLIMATE-SMART AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SYSTEMS INNOVATION BY COP27 The Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate (AIM for

Climate), a global initiative led by the UAE and the US with the support of over 140 government and nongovernment partners, announced a new target to raise investment commitments from US$4 billion, pledged upon its launch in 2021, to US$8 billion by the 27th United Nations Climate Change

Conference (COP27) in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt.

The ambitious investment goal was announced at AIM for Climate’s first Ministerial Meeting, held at Expo 2020 Dubai, where government partners discussed the initiative’s priorities and plans for COP27. At the meeting, AIM for Climate welcomed the

ELITE AGRO INTRODUCES UAE-GROWN RASPBERRIES, BLACKBERRIES, AND STRAWBERRIES, DIRECT FROM FARM TO TABLE Elite Agro (EAG), a leading UAE producer and distributor of fresh produce, is expanding its range of locallygrown, highdemand crops by growing raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries for the first time at their Al Foah farm.

Under Berry World’s license, EAG is now producing a range of premium berry varieties at their local farm in Al Ain, including “Diamond Jubilee” raspberries and “Midnight” blackberries. They are also introducing three premium strawberry varieties called “Florida Beauty”, “San Andrea”, and “Sensation”. The all-new berry range will be available in retail stores in the coming weeks under the newlylaunched “Elite Berry” brand.

By introducing raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries to the UAE for the first time, EAG aims to exponentially reduce farm-to-shelf delivery times, making high quality produce that stays fresh for longer more accessible to their customers.

“As part of our commitment to deliver the freshest farm produce to

our customers, we’re expanding our range of high-quality crops to include three new types of berries.

We’re proud to be the UAE’s only producer of locally-grown blueberries, and we’re confident that this expansion will open even more opportunities to achieve greater success in sustainable farming, in line with the UAE’s food security strategy,” said Ian Summerfield, Elite Agro CEO. The berry saplings were first planted in November 2021 at EAG’s Al Foah farm. Equipped with stateof-the-art automated and sustainable technologies and solutions, the farm’s raspberry production area is now 1.8 hectares with an average of 18,500 stems per hectare and is expected to yield 18 tons of raspberries per hectare.

Meanwhile, the blackberry production area is 1.2 hectares with an average of 30,000 stems per

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hectare and is expected to yield 20 tons per hectare.

In a country dominated by deserts, the berries are grown in temperaturecontrolled greenhouses with advanced micro irrigation through a drip system that combines specific levels of water with a unique combination of nutrients. Grown in a soilless medium that combines coco peat, perlite and other substances, each plant is nurtured by regular analysis and is naturally pollinated

by EAG’s family of lovable and very helpful bumblebees to ensure optimum yields.

Additionally, the farm employs a two-hand touch approach – which means no one touches the berries after the picker and before the consumer – with only an efficient packing and delivery process in between. Using this method, Elite Agro ensures minimal damage and optimal hygiene in their berries.

March-April 2022

News newest partners Chile, Costa Rica, Egypt, the European Commission, Guyana, Mozambique, and Turkey to its coalition, announced AIM for Climate Ideations, a new cooperation opportunity for partners, and 2022 focal areas for innovation sprints to be launched at COP27.

Her Excellency Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said: “Agriculture and food systems offer immense opportunities for global climate action. By catalyzing innovation in climate-smart agriculture, we can reduce harmful emissions and sequester carbon in the sector, sustainably increase productivity to feed a growing global population, and support farmers on the frontlines in building resilience and

adapting to the impacts of climate change. While AIM for Climate has had a notable start at COP26, we are raising the bar to mobilize even greater investments and coordinated support to drive global food systems transformation. By working together and drawing on the diverse knowledge and experience of countries and actors across the value chain, we can enable a quantum leap in agricultural innovation and address our shared climate challenges.”

AIM for Climate government partners provide the crucial foundation of the initiative through a wave of new public investment in climate-smart agriculture and food systems innovation. But other sectors, including business, philanthropy, and other non-

government partners, are invited to build upon that foundation with innovation sprints – investments in specific, impactful, expedited efforts – or by providing critical knowledge for identifying investment gaps, challenges, and opportunities for collaboration.

CIBUS 2022: THE AGRIFOOD INDUSTRY DEALS WITH THE INTERNATIONAL EMERGENCY Cibus is the first important agrifood international exhibition welcoming back foreign buyers.

The 21st edition, organised by Fiere di Parma and Federalimentare, will be held from 03 to 06 May 2022. The letting up of the pandemic emergency and new regulations

FRESH CLASS

VEGETABLES ‫ﻣﻭﻟﺔ ﺑﺩﻋﻡ‬ ّ ‫ﺣﻣﻠﺔ ﺗﺭﻭﻳﺞ ﺩﻋﺎﺋﻳﺔ ُﻣ‬ .‫ُﻣﻘﺩّﻡ ﻣﻥ ﺍﻹﺗﺣﺎﺩ ﺍﻷﻭﺭﻭﺑﻲ‬

March-April 2022

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News easing participation to trade shows by parties outside the EU make it possible for buyers and commercial operators from every continent to attend. Nearly 60 thousand professional visitors and about 3 thousand exhibiting companies are expected at the event. The war in Ukraine and the sensitive geopolitical international situation is affecting the food sector too: rally in prices of gas and raw materials and logistics problems are straining the Italian food and beverage industry. This special condition assigns a delicate role to trade shows like Cibus: on the one hand creating a synthetic projection between supply and demand, and, on the other hand, planning procurement and assortment by overcoming the predicaments in the supply chain.

After all, demand for Italian

agrifood has continued to be strong around the world. A look at the food industry export statistics tells us that: USA +14.3%, China +32.7%, South Korea +30.7%, Chile +50.5%, South Africa +21.2%, Poland +21.4%, Spain +19.6%, Germany + 6.7%, France +7.1%, (by Federalimentare processed based on Istat issued data, January/November 2021).

Cibus 2022 will put food back at the centre of the social and economic debate, presenting various scenarios and its essential place within our society. The trade show highlights the role of food as archetype of social relationships, framing how this sentiment can actually put us back in harmony with a development model consistent with the consumer’s requests,

those of the communities, the environment and the agrifood businesses, increasingly more drawn towards virtuous behavioural choices. Cibus 2022 will focus sustainability in all its multiple facets: environmental, economic and social. GI products, both Italian and international, are also leading at Cibus for their roles in promoting and enhancing the areas of origin, the set of information needed to create value on the shelves and there is an area dedicated to start ups with Italian and foreign businesses as incubators of innovative proposals. It will also feature the enhancement of the good practices of the agrifood industry intended to trigger a positive chain reaction along the entire supply chain.

FLORMART INTERNATIONAL ROADSHOW STOPS OVER IN DUBAI AT EXPO 2020 WITH ITA AND FIERE DI PARMA Flormart, the historic international fair of horticulture, greenery and landscape taking place in Italy since 1974, has selected Expo2020 Dubai to present the

71st

edition of the

trade show and the connected initiatives to the regional public.

Organized by ITA – The Italian Trade Agency in Dubai, the press conference registered the participation of the main Emirati

journalists of the horticultural sector.

Flormart, managed by Fiere di Parma, the organizer of the popular Cibus show, will be held in Padua (Italy) from 21 to 23 September 2022. The trade show represents an international showcase of horticulture and an opportunity of business matching between those who produce the plants, the materials, the furnishings, the means of production and the users, nurserymen, large garden centers, green builders, public bodies, real estate groups and buyers.

ITA arranged the participation of a delegation of more than

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30 international buyers coming from 10 different countries and Fiere di Parma of 12 Italian companies, which participated in the BtoB meetings at the M-eating Italy pavilion at Expo2020.

The event was the occasion to discuss the shape and trends of the Italian horticulture sector and its role in the global market. Speakers at the official press conference were: Roberto Luongo, Italian Trade Agency Ceo & Managing Director; Marcella Pedroni, Fiere di Parma General Secretary; Leonardo Capitanio, ANVE – Italian Association of Nurserymen Exporters President; Cristiana Bertero, Flormart Brand Manager; Michela Lazzaro, Saonara Municipality Vice Major, Saonara Horticultural District representative.

March-April 2022

News CORTEVA AGRISCIENCE LEADS FIGHT AGAINST ABOVE-GROUND MAIZE PESTS Corteva Agriscience has officially introduced PowerCore™ technology to South Africa’s maize farmers.

The solution is a new highperforming, herbicide-resistant seed trait that effectively helps protect crops from damaging above-ground insects, such as the maize stalk borer and spotted maize stem borer. The company’s leading seed brands, Pannar® and Pioneer® will be offering PowerCore™ technology as part of new, high-yielding genetics within their respective maize portfolios.

“South Africa’s agricultural, food and beverage exports hit a record high of $12.4bn (approximately R191.4bn) in 2021, with maize being a significant contributor, reaching its largest export volume since 1994/1995.

What’s more, maize is a staple for many across the country and, as such, it is critical that local farmers are given the tools they need to help protect their yields,” says Tony Esmeraldo, Business Director, Corteva Agriscience, speaking at this year’s Grain SA Congress, an annual gathering of the country’s leading grain producers and other industry players. “Not only have local trials demonstrated the efficacy of PowerCore™ technology, but the trait also has a proven track record in similar climates in both Brazil and Argentina, where it has been successfully used since 2012. We are extremely proud to share the latest advancement in Corteva Agriscience’s innovative pest

March-April 2022

SMARTMOISTURE SET TO BOOST ENVIRONMENTAL AND ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH MOISTURE MANAGEMENT IN FEED PRODUCTION Devenish has partnered with speciality chemicals innovator Perstorp to launch a new patented technology that will help animal feed mills to improve milling efficiency, prevent loss of volume, and ultimately reduce energy consumption and wastage during the milling process.

Developed in collaboration between the two companies, SmartMoisture is a unique moisture management product designed to maintain

control solutions with in-country farmers, to help them address one of the largest problems they face on a daily basis.”

PowerCore™ technology uses combined modes of action to combat primary and secondary pests that can cause significant crop damage and subsequent production losses. The trait comprises three different Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) proteins, each targeting insects differently, while helping to prolong the durability of the technology.

target moisture levels during the manufacturing process which delivers a range of production, performance, and economic benefits.

Globally, between 1-3% of animal feed is lost due to moisture loss and evaporation during storage and the milling process, which equates to approximately 30 million tonnes of feed wasted each year.

Managing feed moisture as a feed ingredient is key to ensuring consistent feed quality and preventing these losses.

Trials carried out

by Devenish and Perstorp have shown that up to 3% moisture can be

reintroduced into feed using SmartMoisture in pelleted feed and up to 4% in extruded feed, with no adverse impact on either animal performance or product quality.

One of the product’s unique features is that it uses the esters of propionic acid – rather than the more common salts of organic acids – which directly prevent the growth of moulds and offer longer protection to the treated feed.

The new Perstorp technology will be distributed exclusively by Devenish, and their growing network of engineering specialists who have in-depth experience of installing dosing machinery at customer sites globally.

EVONIK AND NUTRITION TECHNOLOGIES WORK TOGETHER TO SECURE FUTURE FOOD SUPPLY THROUGH INSECT PROTEIN PROTEINS Evonik and Nutrition Technologies, a Singaporebased manufacturer of insectderived products, have agreed to jointly conduct a research and development project on the amino acid requirements of Black Soldier Flies (BSF) in

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News Southeast Asia. Insects have great potential as a sustainable protein source to feed animals, with lower greenhouse gas emissions, land use, and water requirements than traditional livestock feed ingredients. The project aims to optimize BSF diets to maximize sustainability outcomes in livestock production while continuing to provide safe and healthy meat.

“The demand for nutritious animal protein is growing sharply in Asia”, says Shreedhar Patel, head of the Regional Platform Asia South in the Animal Nutrition business line of Evonik. “With Nutrition Technologies, we are applying our extensive animal nutrition expertise to explore the most efficient ways to incorporate alternative sources of protein into the food value chain. This

should help bolstering food security and availability while minimizing use of arable land and freshwater”.

With the globally recognized knowledge of feed additives that Evonik brings to the project, and the expertise in Black Soldier Fly production from the Nutrition Technologies team, the agreement will accelerate the ability for both parties to deliver optimal BSF protein profiles to enrich animal diets. The research will take place across two locations: Nutrition Technologies’ flagship manufacturing facility in Johor, Malaysia, and Evonik’s state-ofthe-art laboratories in Singapore.

“Working with the global experts at Evonik and having access to their resources is enabling us to develop our

understanding of the BSF nutritional requirements at an incredible rate – this will help us to unlock a whole raft of new raw materials, which is the key to expansion in this industry” said Nick Piggott, Founder and Co-CEO of Nutrition Technologies.

The project, which is scheduled to last two years, is already in place, developing protocols and trial regimes.

Initial findings are expected to be implemented by the end of 2022.

GREENTECH AMSTERDAM 2022: BACK AND BIGGER THAN EVER From artificial intelligence, to robotics, 3D crop modeling and adaptive greenhouse

HILVERDAFLORIST ACQUIRES ROYAL SERIES FROM TAKII HilverdaFlorist is pleased to announce the acquisition of the gerbera Royal F1 series from Takii.

Since 2021 both parties have collaborated to accelerate pot gerbera breeding and seed production. This successful partnership has resulted in a strategic step for both companies; the acquisition of the complete gerbera Royal series by HilverdaFlorist.

HilverdaFlorist will continue with the breeding activities and seed production as initiated last year, and in addition will take over the sales starting of November 1st 2022.

The hybrid Royal series is a perfect addition to the strong Pot Gerbera assortment of HilverdaFlorist. Royal is an established series brand with a long successful history. It’s known for its high uniformity, strong colors and suitability for larger pot

sizes. Combined with the current assortment of FloriLine and Sundayz, HilverdaFlorist confirms to have the strongest assortment in uniformity, genetics and diverse pot sizes to meet any customer demand.

Both family businesses have a long shared history and have collaborated strategically in many areas for years. Royal's new fit with

14 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

HilverdaFlorist helps the gerbera specialist to maintain a strong position in a rapidly changing pot gerbera market and allows Takii to develop in other emerging pot- and bedding segments. Takii and HilverdaFlorist work closely together to ensure a smooth transition that safeguards the delivery of excellent quality material.

March-April 2022

News design, this year’s GreenTech Amsterdam is set to be bigger than ever. Over 13,000 horticulture professionals from around the world will come together to contribute towards improving global health under the theme ‘Happy Food Healthy Flowers’.

The global horticulture sector is excited to be back together in person to network, celebrate, and learn, with around 90% of exhibitors already confirmed.

Taking place on 14-16 June at the RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre, visitors can expect to see: • An opportunity to meet at least 500 exhibitors, all front runners of the horticulture technology industry • Country pavilions such as Canada, France, United Kingdom, Spain, Poland and the Netherlands • Theme pavilions ie: Medicinal Cannabis, Vertical Farming, New: Artificial Intelligence (AI)/ Robotics including Robot Arena. In these pavilions the providers of the latest technological solutions, for these sectors, come together.

• More than 100 knowledge sessions in four theaters namely: Vision Theatre: ‘Happy Food Healthy Flowers’, Crops Theatre: Vegetables, soft fruits, flowers, herbs and new crops’, Technology Theatre: ‘Water, energy and automation solutions’, Vertical & Indoor Farming & Medicinal Cannabis Theatre: ‘Latest trends and developments on vertical farming and medicinal cannabis’.

• Highlighted topics (and many more to come): Feeding & Greening the City, 3D crop modelling, Determine the flavor of vegetables without tasting,

March-April 2022

NESTLÉ STRENGTHENS AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE EXPERTISE WITH NEW RESEARCH INSTITUTE Delivering on Nestlé’s net zero roadmap and the transition towards a regenerative food system requires largescale changes in the way agricultural raw materials are produced and sourced. To translate novel agricultural science into concrete applications and to identify the most promising agricultural technologies, Nestlé today announced the creation of the Nestlé Institute of Agricultural Sciences.

The new institute will focus on the areas of plant science, dairy livestock and agricultural systems science. In close collaboration with internal and external partners, it will assess and combine sciencebased solutions to improve the nutritional and sensorial qualities and the environmental impact of agricultural raw materials.

Stefan Palzer, Nestlé CTO, said: "Our transition towards a regenerative food system is enabled by agricultural science and new agricultural

Next steps in energy saving, Adaptive Greenhouse Design (low-mid-high tech).

• Side events such as: The GreenTech Innovation Awards 2022, International Grower of

technologies. The new institute will accelerate the translation of science into concrete solutions that can be implemented at farm level, to support farmers globally in improving their environmental footprint, in reducing food and nutrient losses, and in better adapting to climate change while ensuring the quality of the raw materials they produce."

The institute builds on Nestlé's existing work and expertise in agricultural science, with important programs already being implemented. For example, our plant science experts have been contributing to the company's sustainable cocoa and coffee sourcing plans – the Nestlé Cocoa Plan and the Nescafé Plan – including with scientific discoveries such as the

recently announced high-yield, drought and disease resistant coffee varieties. Nestlé experts are also working on identifying the most suitable pulses and grains to provide low carbon, plant-based alternatives to meat, seafood and dairy. This strong focus on plant science will be further strengthened and extended to additional crops. The institute will also accelerate the work with external partners to contribute to reducing emissions in dairy farming, to develop regenerative agriculture practices, and to improve biodiversity and soil health. The institute will also explore new approaches to upcycling agricultural side streams to reduce nutrient loss and food waste along the agricultural value chain.

the Year (AIPH), The Ladies Circle event (TLC).

And much more such as ‘Cannabis Greenhouse experience’, ‘Innovation LAB’, ‘Start-up pavilion’.

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

15

News SILAL AND AEROFARMS COLLABORATE TO IMPROVE SUSTAINABLE AND RESILIENT AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES Silal, Abu Dhabi’s leading fresh produce and agri-tech company, and AeroFarms, a Certified B Corporation and leader in indoor vertical farming, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to forge a long-term research and development collaboration involving knowledge and technology transfer of advanced farming systems to local farmers.

Under the MoU, both parties will assess opportunities to transfer technology and data analytics capabilities from high-tech farming systems to improve yield, reduce cost and waste, and enhance

environmental sustainability practices in agriculture across the emirate of Abu Dhabi.

Both entities will also work across priority research areas that aim to benefit the local food supply and market dynamics including seedling quality improvement and crop diversification.

Speaking about the collaboration, Salmeen Obaid Alameri, CEO of Silal, referenced the importance of R&D to Abu Dhabi’s agriculture sector, saying: “One of our standing pillars at Silal is exploring innovative ways to increase local production, through R&D projects and collaboration with programs that foster growth. By working together with AeroFarms, we will explore localised advanced farming techniques that will enable local farmers to produce better, smarter, and more sustainably – bringing far reaching benefits for both

producer and consumer alike.

Our collaboration is another monumental step for Silal in its efforts to drive, deliver and safeguard high-quality food supply for the UAE and its people.” ”AeroFarms is excited to partner with world-class leaders like Silal to create innovative agricultural breakthroughs to improve the food system in the UAE,” commented David Rosenberg, Co-Founder and CEO of AeroFarms.

The collaboration will focus on improving the genetics and seedling quality of vegetable and fruit varieties to become more resilient and tolerant to extreme growing conditions.

The quality of a seedling is an essential factor for crop establishment, growth, and yield. The partnership will also focus on evaluating and testing crops that have large consumer demand such as

GREEK MEDIA DELEGATION VISITS EVOGREEN’S WASTE TREATMENT FACILITY IN SHARJAH A Greek delegation of journalists visited the Evogreen Alternative Raw Material facility in Sharjah, where maritime and marine-related hazardous waste is being transformed into industrial-grade alternative materials for circular economy.

The facility is the first project of

Evogreen, a joint venture between Polygreen and BEEAH. The 11 Greek journalists learned about the Evogreen facility, located within BEEAH Recycling’s award-winning waste management complex, and its importance in helping realise a zero-waste future and the larger circular economy.

The journalists were briefed about BEEAH’s vision for a circular economy across the UAE and the wider region, which has driven the organisation’s growth into a leader in waste management and pioneer for sustainability in the Middle East.

16 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

Imran Gill, CEO of Polygreen Middle East, discussed Evogreen’s importance in tackling the pressing issue of marine pollution, utilising innovative marine and environmental management solutions as well as advanced waste processing.

The delegation also went on a tour of the waste management complex and visited the Evogreen Alternative Raw Material facility, where they saw the unique methods being used to treat contaminated metals and hazardous industrial waste. Recovered materials are then used to produce alternative materials for industrial use, promoting a circular economy and helping keep oceans clean.

March-April 2022

News chili pepper, capsicum, cucumber, tomato, lettuce, broccoli, courgette, melons, eggplant, strawberry, and blueberry.

BELGIAN LIVESTOCK FARMING FURTHER REDUCES ANTIBIOTIC USE

EUROTIER 2022:THE VENUE FOR "FUTURE OF ANIMAL HUSBANDRY” "Transforming Animal Farming" - this is the guiding theme of EuroTier 2022, reflecting the changes currently embracing the livestock sector, The EuroTier trade fair will take place from 15 to 18 November 2022 at the Hanover Exhibition Grounds and will be supported by an additional digital offering.

The organizer DLG (German Agricultural Society) is placing the trade fair’s technical program of the world's leading trade fair for animal farming and livestock management under the guiding theme of "Transforming Animal Farming". The focus is on animal welfare, animal health, sustainability, emissions, genetics, husbandry, feeding, digitalization, management, processing and direct farm sales.

The national and international livestock sector is undergoing a transformation. A range of topics are shaping the current developments - animal welfare, sustainability, biodiversity, climate change and global food security as well as production efficiency and marketing strategies.

These factor influence changes in production and value chains as well as societal and environmental demands on livestock farming.

"In this challenging environment, livestock farmers need new perspectives, strategic approaches and the right technologies more than ever,

March-April 2022

Belgian livestock farming can show good figures when it comes to antibiotic use. While the drop in antibiotic use appeared to stagnate in 2020, use has further fallen in the past year.

And with a new covenant (2021-2024) the sector has committed itself to take yet further steps. Less antibiotic use benefits animal and human health. Less use of antibiotics also reduces the likelihood of resistance. This also increases the likelihood of success after antibiotic treatment in human and animal health. With this wisdom in mind, years of efforts have already been put into reducing the use of antibiotics.

And not without success.

Raising public awareness, legislation and preventive measures have reduced antibiotic use since 2011 by 40 per cent.

in order to be able to successfully address the changes in the industry. As

The year 2020 was an exception, because after years of falls in antibiotic use a stillstand was noted for the first time.

This was a wake-up call for the sector, as in the meantime better figures have emerged. From the latest antibiotic barometer from AMCRA, the knowledge centre for antibiotic use and resistance among animals, it appears that in the period between July 2020 and June 2021 fewer antibiotics were again registered.

According to Jeroen Dewulf, chairman of AMCRA, raising public awareness is an important weapon in the further reduction of antibiotic use. There is already much raising of awareness based on the new 2021-2024 antibiotic covenant. This covenant states that AMCRA and other stakeholders want

to further reduce total antibiotic use in animals in our country to 65 per cent by 2024 compared to 2011.

To achieve this reduction, much is also expected from the reduction pathway agreed this year with the pig, veal calf and poultry sectors. In these sectors, benchmark reports are issued in which the performance of a farmer is tested against a set figure. If the report turns red, a programme to reduce antibiotic use will be set up. “In this way, a concrete reduction plan is worked out to achieve the targets,” says Fabiana Dal Pozzo, coordinator of AMCRA. She also has high expectations of the antibiotics registration obligation that will apply to the dairy and beef farming sectors next year.

In addition to farm animals, AMCRA wants to extend its focus to horses and pets in the future. “There are still many steps to be taken here. And that is important because these animals frequently come into contact with humans and can thus transmit possible antibiotic resistance,” concludes chairman Dewulf.

the world's leading trade fair and leading professional platform, EuroTier plays a

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

17

News decisive role in offering the relevant innovations and solutions for farmers, farm managers and companies," explains Ines Rathke, EuroTier Project Manager, describing the central importance of EuroTier for international livestock farming.

GI OVO INTRODUCES THE TRAY INSPECTOR GI OVO introduces the Tray Inspector, a machine that can identify, separate and remove the broken trays from your production line.

For more than 20 years our EggsCargoSystem® sets the standard for egg handling worldwide. A vital part of this

egg handling infrastructure consists of our durable egg trays. The trays are built to last, but they are often used for a long period of time. They can eventually develop small cracks or other deficiencies.

Broken trays may cause broken eggs, a disrupted production process or even severe damage to your machines. That is why we created the ECS® Tray Inspector that identifies and separates the broken trays.

The Tray Inspector is controlled by a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). This PLC is connected to a computer that runs specially designed software. The software analyses

every tray and sees any sort of crack or malfunction. The PLC then decides to which stack the tray is transported: broken trays or correct trays.

The ECS® Tray Inspector is modular and can be upgraded with several convenient additions to match your specific needs. Its basis consists of a conveyor line, a re-packer, an unpacker, a pusher - that pushes the sorted trays - and especially designed vision technology which detects the broken trays.

Our machine can be expanded with various additions, such as several stacking devices, a camera that reads the age of the trays and the possibility to connect to other machines.

NEW AGRI-TECH VERTICAL FARM SYSTEM RESHAPING AGRICULTURE TO SUSTAIN GROWING POPULATIONS WITH HIGH-YIELD CROPS Future Crops announces a new investment round led by Tencent to accelerate growth. Future Crops is shaping the future of agriculture and our food system, making it more safe, resilient, and efficient.

Future Crops has developed advanced vertical farming from cutting-edge technology that uses a unique soil-like substrate to better reproduce the natural environment.

The high-tech farm grows fresh, clean, ultra-sustainable, high quality crops at competitive price points. Researchers from Israel’s Agricultural Research Organization (ARO) were an integral part of the team that developed Future Crops’ cutting-edge technology.

Future Crops had already raised over $30 million in seed funding from a private equity arm run by the Lerman Family, leaders in the American steel industry to finance the construction of their state-of-the-

art facility and to build their team of experts. This is the first time Future Crops has sought investment beyond its initial round of funding.

“We are tremendously excited about this investment,” says Gary Grinspan, CEO and Co-Founder of Future Crops. “Tencent’s investment reflects the company’s focus on sustainable innovations and support for technologies, like vertical farming, which can create clean, locally grown sustainable food while helping to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change. We believe our soil-substratebased platform is closer to nature and produces fresh, longer-lasting, higher-quality produce at improved yields, as plants

18 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

grow best in soil".

“Tencent supports companies creating solutions to the world’s most critical challenges, including technologies that can feed more people using fewer resources” said Ling Ge, Chief European Representative, Tencent.

“Investments in sustainable agriculture technologies, such as vertical farm systems, aligns with our mission to apply technology for good.”

March-April 2022

FlowerTrials Preview

THE LATEST POT AND BEDDING PLANT INNOVATIONS WILL BE PRESENTED AT FLOWERTRIALS® 2022

F

rom 14 to 17 June, over 60 breeding companies in the Netherlands and Germany will proudly present their innovations, creative concepts and an incredibly wide range of crop assortments to growers, exporters and buyers from across the world. After the cancellation of the 2020 edition and last year’s digital alternative ‘Studio FlowerTrials®’, the organisation is preparing again for a classical edition with physical attendance. From technical information to retail inspiration, from breeding breakthroughs to the latest trends, everyone who works with and loves plants and flowers has a reason to visit the FlowerTrials®.

Who is exhibiting: All major pot and bedding plant breeders exhibit under the FlowerTrials® flag. Exhibitors come from Europe, Israel,

March-April 2022

Japan and the U.S.A. Where: FlowerTrials® members hold open house at 29 individual locations in 3 key geographical regions: Westland & Aalsmeer in The Netherlands, Rheinland-Westfalen in Germany. Each location is home to a single exhibitor or a group of companies sharing joint facilities.

When: FlowerTrials® opens its doors from 14 - 17 June 2022.

What is on show: The very latest innovations in bedding plants, container plants and indoor & outdoor pot plants together with crop information, retail concepts, and inspiration on trends. Visiting a trade show offers only a taste of what is available, whereas at the FlowerTrials® the breeders are on location with a comprehensive offering of complete product ranges.

Who should visit: FlowerTrials® welcomes all ornamental horticulture and retail professionals from around the world. For growers, the event showcases the very latest novelties for the upcoming season with experts on hand to provide cultural support. For wholesalers and retailers FlowerTrials® is the key event to meet the breeders, examine the top varieties and concepts for next season and have the opportunity to influence trends. FlowerTrials® is a key event in the worldwide pot and bedding plant scene and the latest edition attracted visitors from 70 countries.

FLOWERTRIALS

®

IS THE KEY EVENT

TO MEET THE BREEDERS, EXAMINE THE TOP VARIETIES AND CONCEPTS FOR NEXT SEASON AND HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO INFLUENCE TRENDS

More details: The FlowerTrials® website www.flowertrials.com gives a full overview of all participating companies, their main crops and their innovations for the 2022/23 season.

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

19

Herbicides

ADJUWEX™: CLARIANT’S INNOVATION SHIFT TO GLUFOSINATE HERBICIDES

R

egulatory pressure, more herbicideresistant weeds, climate change, evolving consumer needs. As challenges in tackling weed desiccation and re-growth escalate for crop farmers, Clariant offers the support of ADJUWEX, a new highperforming set of tested products to tailor-make effective glufosinate formulations for local circumstances and needs.

Glufosinate formulations have emerged among the most promising candidates in the urgent search for alternative herbicide solutions to ensure vital crop growth and ultimately global food security. However, a one-sizefits-all formulation does not exist. The most effective composition can vary widely, based on a variety of aspects including climate, soil, the crop, and application conditions.

20 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

“A deep understanding of individual needs is essential for effective weed and growth control based on glufosinate.

And this is where ADJUWEX will offer a much-needed smart helping hand to our customers,” comments Fabio Caravieri, Head of Global Marketing, BU Industrial & Consumer Specialties, Clariant. “We have merged our wide-ranging global expertise in crop protection and conducted extensive tests to determine the needs of glufosinate formulations and boost their effects in the field, under many different conditions. The result is a versatile set of adjuvant products and formulation options, backed by global technical support. It gives customers the flexibility and confidence to tailor their formulations to their own conditions and needs.”

To help customers choose the optimal glufosinate-based

formulation for their challenge and country, the toolbox supports crop protection companies on practical as well biological efficacy and yieldrelated considerations. It ensures both Tank-Mix and In-Can customers benefit from effective weed desiccation and prevention of re-growth by addressing priorities like drift control, rain fastness, and allround boosting of bio-efficacy through active ingredient compatibility. The products show very good performance versus current prominent sector alternatives, proven in lab and field tests.

ADJUWEX is unique in offering solutions suited to new application technologies including drones. Moreover the products have been extensively trialled in several crops worldwide for precision farming.

For more information, visit www.clariant.com

March-April 2022

Biostimulants

DISCOVER RIZOCYN, THE NATURAL BIOSTIMULANT FOR YOUNG PLANTS

R

IZOCYN is designed in order to help plants develop a strong and healthy root system: -In the field -In the Greenhouse -In the garden or balcony Properties There are multiple and different benefits coming from the application of Rizocyn, as it: • Promotes the growth of the root in all types of plantlets.

• Assists in overcoming the transplant shock and ensures the soonest possible establishment of all transplanting plants in the soil.

• Increases the microbial activity in the soil which converts the soil nutrients into a form that is directly assimilated by the plants.

• Improves the structure of the soil and supplements the organic matter of the soil which is consumed due to excessive cropping.

• E nhances the cation exchange capacity of the roots.

•A ssists the root penetration even in concrete soils.

• C ontributes to the better aeration of the root.

• Increases the cell divisions in the root.

• Promotes seed germination.

• C ontributes to the creation of healthy and high yield crops with great resistance to the various environmental and biotic factors.

Application RIZOCYN is applied either by fertigation, root and cutting dipping or foliarly at the following application rates: • Soil application: 10-20 l/ha.

• Seed dipping: 250 ml/100 l of water.

• Root and cutting dipping: 250-500 ml/100 l of water (with the transplanting water).

• Hydroponics: 500 ml/1,000 l of water (with the transplanting water).

• Foliar application: 250 ml/ 100 l of water.

It is certified for use in organic agriculture according to EU Regulation for organic farming.

For more information, visit www.humofert.gr March-April 2022

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

21

Peat & Substrates

OFF TO NEW SHORES: STENDER GMBH, GERMANY, AT THE AFRICAN SEED TRADE ASSOCIATION IN DJERBA

T

he German peat and substrate producer Stender GmbH joined the AFSTA Congress in Djerba took place from February 28 - March 03, 2022 as silver sponsor this year.

The event was held at Royal Garden Palace in Djerba, Tunisia. The congress was attended by almost 180 participants being seed traders and producers from all over the world.

Tunisia has experienced an increase of greenhouse

22 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

crops as well as geothermal crops contributing to satisfying national needs and to the growth of exports from market garden products.

Our MENA manager Mr. Adel Zaraa, responsible for Stender’s Export Arabic countries, joined this congress.

Among a variety of many current and interesting subjects for Africa, Mr. Zaraa was updated on soil and root health of cereals and vegetables, plant breeding innovations and the needs of the African seed

sector and the general global seed trade.

After several workshops and reports, all participants had the possibility to join the exhibition booths and trading rooms.

During the Gala dinner, we took the chance to have 1:1 conversations evaluating and generating new possible customers in West Africa but also meeting our existing customers was a pleasure.

Stender AG is a leading producer and supplier of peat and substrates. The company has two factories in Germany (Schermbeck, Papenburg) and in the Baltics. Based on these operations and a sophisticated logistic network, the company ensures the supply of its customers with Stender products.

March-April 2022

Planter Bags

WANGARA HORTICULTURAL SUPPLIES “NEW PRODUCT LAUNCH”

W

HS Australia is debuting its World Wide Launch in the Gulf Countries with a product specifically designed with the MENA region’s climate in mind.

Introducing the Innovative and Patented Desert Bag™. This new product is exclusively available through WHS Australia and is the product of engineering and manufacturing advances that allow for a Grow Bag that is produced specifically for the Middle East growers and tree farms.

This new and exciting product will allow growers to keep their trees in Grow Bags for a longer period of time. It will also allow for safer transportation of trees and inspection of the root ball at all stages of the plants life. The design includes: Sun protected handles that are wrapped in a fabric that will break down over time, but will keep the integrity of the handle intact.

An extra band at the top diameter ensure the handles do not come away from the Grow Bag. A double layer material around the entire bag ensures

March-April 2022

that Sun Damage is limited to the outer layer, while leaving the structure of the bag untouched.

A new perimeter belt ensures the bag stands up solidly and supports the root ball.

One model of the Desert Bag™ includes a side opening that allows for inspection of the root ball, easy removal of the tree from the Grow Bag as well

as the opportunity to Re-Use the Grow Bag. The company has announced that existing customers will be receiving sample Desert Bags™ in the next few weeks to begin growing Better Trees and Bigger Profits. There is also an opportunity to register your interest for a sample by sending your details to info@whsaustralia.com.au

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

23

Irrigation

ININTHE THEDESERT DESERTRDI RDI IS

environmental scien�sts that the desert can Why is RDI trying to grow crops in openenvironmental scien�sts that the desert can

Why is RDI trying to grow crops in open fields in the Desert? fields in the Desert?

support crop produc�on, offering an affordable

support crop produc�on, offering an affordable

solu�on for food security. In this field, a�er the Abu Dhabi, like many other na�ons, is concernedsolu�on for food security. In this field, a�er the Abu Dhabi, like many other na�ons, is concerned large rocks had been raked, a tape injector about food security, water scarcity, and climatelarge rocks had been raked, a tape injector about food security, water scarcity, and climate implement was used to bury the RDI tubing change. They have focused their a�en�on on implement was used to bury the year, RDI the tubing underground.

In January of this first change. AgTech They have focused on and innova�ons andtheir begana�en�on seeking out underground.

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In many desert areas, success.

Theconsump�on RDI systemby reduced and fer�lizer more thanwater 40%, while solu�onshigh to these problems. many desert salinity soil andInground water, areas, create an fer�lizer consump�on byachieving more than more40%, thanwhile 100% untenable high salinity soil environment and ground for water, create an higher more yields than compared achieving 100%to cropenvironment produc�on. for untenable standard irriga�on.to higher yieldsdrip compared crop produc�on.

Many countries in this standard drip irriga�on.

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which was planted in the Fall of 2021 is

seeds have germinated and are demonstra�ng

demonstra�ng to farmers, agronomists, and

WW W development. .RESPONSIVEDRIP.COM excellent growth and

24 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

March-April 2022

WWW.RESPONSIVEDRIP.COM

Irrigation

CREATING FARMLANDS CREATING CREATINGFARMLANDS FARMLANDS Why regenera�ve farm techniques?

Why regenera�ve farmtechniques? techniques?

Why regenera�ve farm

The soil is full of organisms which are helpful for

is full organismswhich whichare arehelpful helpful for for TheThe soilsoil is full of of organisms plants. Some convert soil nitrogen into a plant

plants.

Some convertsoil soilnitrogen nitrogen into into aa plant plant plants.

Some convert usable form, others conduct water or loosen and

usable form, others conductwater waterororloosen loosen and and usable others aerateform, the soil.

Withconduct �llage, chemical fer�lizers,

aerate the soil. With �llage, chemical fer�lizers,

aerate the soil.

With �llage, chemical fer�lizers, herbicides, and pes�cides, the living organisms are

herbicides, and pes�cides, the living organisms are

herbicides, the living incapable organismsofare destroyed and and pes�cides, the soil becomes

destroyed and the soil becomes incapable of

destroyed the soil suppor�ng and sustainable crop becomes produc�on.incapable of suppor�ng sustainable crop produc�on.

suppor�ng sustainable crop produc�on.

RDI’s GrowStream tube delivers water and fer�lizer RDI’s water andand fer�lizer RDI’s GrowStream GrowStreamtube tubedelivers delivers water fer�lizer at an extremely low flow rate that targets the root at that targets thethe rootroot at an an extremely extremelylow lowflow flowrate rate that targets zone of the plant. A significant reduc�on in fer�lizer zone of plant.

A significant reduc�on in fer�lizer ofthe the plant. significant reduc�on fer�lizer usezone has been seen withAthe RDI system.

Withoutinsoil use has been seen with the RDI system. Without soil use has beenemissions seen with are the RDI system. �lling, carbon reduced andWithout the soil �lling, carbon emissions are reduced and the �lling,plant carbon emissions are reduced and the organic material and microbial ac�vity are organic plant material and microbial ac�vity are organic plant material and microbial ac�vity are maintained. maintained.

maintained.

RDI OFFERS A BETTER ALTERNATIVE FOR GREENHOUSES RDI OFFERS A BETTER ALTERNATIVE FOR GREENHOUSES

RDIoutdoors OFFERS A BETTER ALTERNATIVE Moving from the to 25 Greenhouses located in UAE,FOR withGREENHOUSES a total area of 3.5 hectares, Moving from the outdoors to 25 Greenhouses located in UAE, with a total area of 3.5 hectares, RDI hasfrom provided a solu�onto to issues that are costly and impact produc�on.

Moving the outdoors Greenhouses in impact UAE,greenhouse with a totalcrop area 3.5 hectares, RDI has provided a solu�on 25 to issues that are located costly and greenhouse cropof produc�on.

Install Install

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Flowering Seedlings

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EASY TO INSTALL MINIMIZES REDUCE WATER DECREASE ENERGY EARLY HARVEST HIGHER GRADE EASYLESS TO BUGS INSTALL PLANTMINIMIZES REDUCE WATER DECREASE ENERGY EARLY HARVEST MORE HIGHER GRADE WITH DISEASES & FERTILIZER USE REDUCE LABOR & YIELD WITH LESS BUGS PLANT DISEASES & FERTILIZER USE MAINTENANCE REDUCE LABOR & MORE YIELD COST MAINTENANCE COST

EASY TO INSTALL WITH LESS BUGS March-April 2022

MINIMIZES PLANT DISEASES

REDUCE WATER DECREASE ENERGY EARLY HARVEST HIGHER GRADE SYSTEM &RDI FERTILIZER USE BENEFITS REDUCE LABOR & MORE YIELD RDI SYSTEM BENEFITS MAINTENANCE COST www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

RDI SYSTEM BENEFITS

25

Irrigation

Terraplus Solutions T+ system

RICE IN UAE DESERT TERRAPLUS SOLUTIONS ANNOUNCES SUCCESSFUL TRIALS

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gritech firm Terraplus Solutions has completed successful trials of open-air rice production in the United Arab Emirates, and for the first time the staple crop has been grown economically and sustainably in the country. The news comes on the eve of the ‘Food for Future Summit’ in Dubai.

The results of the trials are a big step forward for the possibility of rice being grown in the UAE, as they indicate that rice can be produced domestically for a cheaper price than import.

This is a key discovery that could benefit the UAE National Food Security Strategy 2051, which outlines rice as a core food item.

Speaking about the successful trial results Patrick

26 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

Stevens, Managing Director and co-founder of Terraplus Solutions said, “Access to affordable and secure rice production is essential.

Traditionally this has meant relying on imports, but these findings show that with the right technology the UAE can produce rice right here in its own soil at a competitive price and using a sustainable amount of water.”

The average subsidized price for an imported tonne of rice in the UAE is approximately $817. The country has imported more than 900,000 tonnes of rice over the past 12 months.

The trials targeted production of rice to be grown for $817 per tonne or cheaper across a sample farm in Dhaid, Sharjah. The homegrown UAE business

factored in all known rice production costs including labour, seeds, fertilizer and water. The latter resource is the most important dynamic given the scarcity of water in the UAE. The team deployed the T+ system, a revolutionary subsurface irrigation method developed by Terraplus Solutions, to reduce enormous amounts of water.

Before these trials, the first three weeks of rice germination from seed to a two-leaf plant would have used around 200 litres of water per kilogram. Instead, the result of using Terraplus Solutions’ T+ system provided a water saving of more than 99 percent to just 0.9 litres per kilogram of rice produced.

For more information, visit www.terraplus.solutions

March-April 2022

Agricultural Technology

NEW SENSOR-TO-SATELLITE TECHNOLOGY FROM WYLD DELIVERS GLOBAL CONNECTIVITY FOR SMART AGRICULTURE

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yld Networks has announced the availability of its new range of low-power, sensor-tosatellite terminals and modules that make it possible to connect agricultural sensors anywhere in the world, where there is no alternative coverage. The Wyld devices can transfer data directly to terrestrial networks or through Low Earth Orbiting (LEO) satellites as a result of partnership with Eutelsat. With 100 percent global coverage, the new Wyld Connect solutions are ideal for applications in remote areas such as measuring soil moisture levels, tracking livestock or monitoring greenhouse temperature changes to adjust ventilation and irrigation. The full sensor-tosatellite service will be available in the second half of 2022.

The Wyld Connect terminal can connect directly to existing agricultural sensors, while the small modules can be fully integrated into new IoT sensors as an embedded solution. By using the LoRaWAN®, low power wide area network technology, smart farming IoT applications can be deployed globally using terrestrial or satellite connectivity at very low cost.

Sensors can be powered by batteries with a lifetime of up to ten years. Data is delivered through Wyld’s cloud-based Fusion platform, which also allows IoT sensors to be registered, configured, authenticated and managed remotely.

“With a growing world

March-April 2022

population driving demand for food year-on-year, agriculture is under pressure to work more efficiently, productively and intelligently, amid the complex challenges of climate change and more erratic weather incidents,” says Alastair Williamson, CEO at Wyld Networks. “But the smart agriculture revolution is being held back by the lack of ubiquitous global connectivity.

With an estimated 15% of the earth’s surface covered by existing cellular networks, low earth orbiting satellites provide the low-cost solution needed to catapult agricultural IoT growth around the world.”

Wyld is already working on trials with companies such as Bayer, Treevia, Agrology, KWS, Agrocognitive and Wezen Group developing agricultural and environmental IoT applications. The company is also partnering with TrakAssure on the design and production of a new sensorenabled device that can be used for farm-to-fork supply chain ecosystems. By making satellite IoT economics competitive to terrestrial solutions but with the benefit of global coverage, Wyld is opening up a wide range of new applications.

In addition to partnering with Eutelsat to provide LoRaWAN coverage via its low earth orbiting satellites, Wyld is also partnering with leading terrestrial LoRaWAN network providers including American Tower and Senet.

To ensure low power

consumption at all times, Wyld has implemented a unique beaconing technology developed with Eutelsat that ensures that the terminal and sensor remain in sleep mode until a satellite is available to collect data.

“Existing low power wide area networks such as LoRaWAN are ideal to connect low power agricultural assets and sensors that don’t need to send much data, but they currently rely on a limited terrestrial infrastructure,” said Luc Perard, Senior Vice President, IoT Business at Eutelsat. “Wyld’s new sensorto-satellite LoRaWAN terminals and modules now make it possible to harness our network of LEO satellites to deliver low-cost, hybrid terrestrial and satellite connectivity over 100% of the earth’s surface, which is a game changer for the future of global smart farming.”

For more information, visit www.wyldnetworks.com

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

27

Agricultural Machinery

NEW JOHN DEERE STARFIRE 7000 EASES RTK ENTRY

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ohn Deere’s new StarFireTM 7000 receiver enables an easy entry into precision farming. Without extra hardware, the receiver offers RTK accuracy of +/- 2.5 cm and customers will benefit from better satellite network coverage.

More farmers want to use the precision of RTK, but shy away from the greater initial investment. Now, John Deere offers the new StarFireTM 7000 with a completely new correction signal – StarFireTM RTK. The new signal can be activated very easily by purchasing a renewable licence, with no investments in additional hardware or activations necessary.

With a pull-in time of fewer than 10 minutes, field work can start up to three times faster than before. Recorded field boundaries have a repeatability of at least five years, offering the

March-April 2022 28 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

possibility to create guidance lines and tramlines in the same place in subsequent crops. Field boundaries can be used beyond the season for highly precise and automatic switching on and off sprayer boom sections. This means John Deere is providing a better solution for the increasing use of precision farming.

Just like the previous models, the new receiver offers the free SF1 correction signal as standard and can be upgraded to Radio and Mobile RTK. The StarFireTM 7000 Receiver receives Galileo and BeiDouSatellite signals in addition to GPS and GLONASS. This ensures a stronger signal strength at no additional cost, which is more independent of interference, such as shading by trees.

The receiver is available in both universal/transportable

and integrated versions. The integrated version is built directly into the roof of the machine from the factory, while the universal receiver is suitable for flexible use. With the new practical handles on the sides, it can be moved from machine to machine or to an implement even easier. The receiver is compatible with new and existing machines and can therefore be used for the entire fleet.

To ensure that the universal receiver is less attractive for thieves, John Deere offers users set up a PIN code. The PIN code can be defined for two access levels, for example an administrator and an operator. Additional protection with a mechanical lockable kit is available, and the receiver can be removed after the job is done and be stored safely until the next use.

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture 28 March-April 2022

Agricultural Machinery

APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY: FENDT CONCENTRATES ON SELF-PROPELLED FIELD SPRAYERS

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n the future, the agricultural machinery manufacturer AGCO/Fendt will concentrate on selfpropelled machines in the application technology product range. In the second quarter 2022, production of the Fendt Rogator 300 trailed field sprayer will be discontinued.

Currently, Fendt offers three different series for application technology: the trailed sprayer Fendt Rogator 300 as well as the selfpropelled machines Fendt Rogator 600 and in selected markets the Fendt Rogator 900.

As part of the AGCO Corporation realignment with the new Farmer First

March-April 2022

strategy, the Fendt brand will focus even more strongly on the requirements of professional farmers in all regions in the future. In the course of this, both changing market and customer requirements as well as political framework conditions were examined and rebalanced in a portfolio strategy. Especially the European markets with an upcoming new EU regulation on the application of plant protection products must be taken into account.

"In order to always be able to offer our customers the perfect solution for their requirements in the future, we have decided to discontinue the production of

the Fendt Rogator 300 in the second quarter 2022," says Christoph Gröblinghoff, Chairman of the AGCO/Fendt Management Board. "In the future, we will focus on the area of self-propelled machines in order to develop this further - for efficient and at the same time more sustainable crop protection."

Of course, all machines on the market and still to be delivered will be serviced in the usual Fendt standard. Service and spare parts availability will continue to be guaranteed for all customers via the Fendt sales partners.

For more information, visit www.fendt.com

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

29

Agricultural Research

NEW ZEALAND AND UAE HIGHLIGHT AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH COOPERATION

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ew Zealand’s Trade and Export Growth and Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor, has visited the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) in Dubai as part of a diplomatic mission to highlight bilateral collaboration in tackling global food security issues through sustainable food systems and agritech innovation.

The Minister was joined by Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi, Acting Director General of ICBA, and Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD) representatives: Eng. Faisal Ali Al Hammadi, Director of Permitting, Compliance, and Enforcement Environment Quality Department; Dr. Mohamed Dawoud, Water Resources, Environment Quality Advisor; and PhD student Mansoor Al Tamimi to learn more about the ‘Salt Leachate Measurement’ project, the latest scientific joint venture between New Zealand agricultural research organisations, EAD and ICBA. Brokered by New Zealand

30 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

G2G, a joint venture between New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE), the project has brought together some of New Zealand’s top government institutions including Plant and Food Research and Massey University - along with project management by OnlyFromNZ, to help EAD and ICBA investigate more sustainable use of water for crops.

Commenting on the government to government collaboration, Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, said: “We’re proud of the longstanding relationship the UAE has with New Zealand G2G – and the numerous research projects that help us enhance efforts to conserve natural resources in the Emirates. The vital knowledge exchange taking place at ICBA between these world-class institutions is crucial for government policy setting, as we work together to achieve the UAE’s

food security goals and build a global food system that is better and more sustainable for all.”

With groundwater supplies in the UAE becoming increasingly scarce and saltier, the four-year project aims to determine the feasibility of using reject brine from small-scale desalination plants on farms and aqua-brine from fish farms, instead of groundwater, to grow salttolerant crops and fodders. The modified devices are now in place on 36 different plots in the UAE and will be used to monitor progress until 2024.

The data will then be used to inform decisions about irrigation and environmental management.

Hon. Damien O’Connor met Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi and ICBA scientists, and EAD PhD student Mansoor Al Tamimi, to discuss the progress they are making at ICBA and the importance of ongoing government collaboration. As the UAE looks to increase local food production from 10% to 30% by 2031, and become the

March-April 2022

Agricultural Research most food secure nation by 2051, the findings of the ‘Salt Leachate Measurement’ project will play an important role in achieving these targets sustainably.

Hon. Damien O’Connor commented: “The UAE is increasing investment into its sustainable food ecosystem through the implementation of its National Food Security Strategy and the different initiatives that aim to find solutions to tackle the critical water–food–energy nexus.

New Zealand recognises the UAE’s considerable efforts and will continue to strengthen our bilateral cooperation in this area.

“New Zealand’s involvement in the ‘Salt Leachate Project’ is an example of the achievements that can be made through collaboration and international knowledge exchange, harnessing our respective expertise to help accelerate the transition to a climate-positive and resilient global food system.”

The New Zealand–UAE government partnership began in 2013 with the signing of the first environmental MOU between both countries, formalising a strong and longterm collaboration between New Zealand organisations and ICBA as well as other UAE government entities involved in food security.

“New Zealand is a country of five million and feeds 40 million people globally so we have huge capability. Agricultural commodities are the main export of New Zealand, with Food and Beverage being our top export sector to the UAE. “The future of New Zealand’s food and fibre production is driven by our Fit For A Better World roadmap. It underpins our ongoing commitment to

March-April 2022

developing positive food systems that utilise natural resources sustainably.

We are proud of our New Zealand G2G partnerships with the UAE to advance food security. New Zealand’s public sector has world-leading expertise that we can offer other governments. Only by sharing our science, expertise and latest agricultural innovations can we work towards building more positive, resilient and inclusive food systems for all - to be in balance with nature, not against it” Damien O’Connor added.

Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi said: “In collaboration with a wide range of partners, ICBA has carried out research-for-development activities and programmes in some 40 countries in Central Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, the South Caucasus, and sub-Saharan Africa. Our partners in the UAE and New Zealand are undertaking important research activities to measure the impact of saline water in agriculture.

These efforts support regional food security and offer sustainable solutions to issues like salinity and water scarcity in marginal environments. The scientific achievements from New Zealand and ICBA can also be used globally, as countries across the world tackle water shortages and unsustainable food systems.”

“While the environments of New Zealand and the UAE differ greatly, the pooling of expertise and resource-sharing has been crucial in finding solutions to one of the region’s most pressing issues. We are excited to continue the partnership with New Zealand organisations, with the findings of the current research expected to open up further collaboration,” added Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi.

The research project also includes a four-year PhD programme from Massey University, currently being undertaken by Mansoor Al Tamimi from EAD. He is the third EAD staff member to be accepted into Massey University’s PhD programme which sees Emirati students, living in the UAE, solve realworld problems with sustainable groundwater management, supervised by New Zealand-based scientists.

“Massey University is one of the world’s leading agricultural universities so I’m very grateful for this PhD partnership that gives me access to some of the best agricultural scientists while applying our academic knowledge to real field work here in the UAE. It’s a very practical programme that has already helped inform regulation and policy for groundwater use in the UAE’s hyper-arid, hyper-saline environment,” said Al Tamimi.

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

31

Greenhouses

HIGH-TECH GREENHOUSE HORTICULTURE IN CHINA IN FULL DEVELOPMENT

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hinese greenhouse horticulture is evolving at a rapid pace. And in the years to come, it shows the possibilities of speeding up, even more, expects Gloria Zhang of climate screen supplier Svensson. But there are also challenges to overcome: among others, the high energy prices and the moderate horticultural expertise level. Gloria is confident that “the collaboration with Dutch Greenhouse Delta and the PIB China will help to present Svensson's value in the market and working together with all the members allows us to provide a total solution of the value chain to growers in this country.”

Climate Screen supplier Svensson has been active in the Chinese market for many years.

In fact, the company of Swedish origin has had its own production facility in Shanghai for some twenty years. “Here, we produce not only a wide range of climate screens, but

also insect nets, for the Chinese market, but also for other countries in the world,” says Gloria Zhang. She has been a General Manager at Svensson China since 2014.

High-tech greenhouse horticulture on the rise In recent years, Svensson has been involved in many projects in the high-tech greenhouse horticulture sector in China. A few examples of Chinese growers’ successful projects are: the new 6-hectare facility in Yinchuan for the potted rose company Aibida; And also the 20-hectare state-of-the-art greenhouses of vegetable producer Shanghai YouYou (Group), in Shanghai, with new climate solutions. They saved both energy costs and experience effects such as homogenous light giving lower plant temperature and less stress, promoted crop photosynthesis, and steady growth.

Potted rose company Aibida in Yinchuan

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Gloria emphasizes that hightech greenhouse horticulture is clearly on the rise in China.

“Especially in recent years, high-tech greenhouse horticulture has been developing rapidly. However, the percentage of high-tech greenhouses is still very low compared to the whole facility agriculture area in China. We are really still at the beginning.”

According to Gloria, both the state-owned companies and private parties are investing in high-tech greenhouse projects.

There are several reasons for this. “Food safety and food security are issues which are becoming increasingly important in China. This is, in part, because the middle-class group is rising, which results in a population group demanding higher standards for the quality and freshness of its food. In addition, the Chinese government considers it crucial to be selfsufficient and secure in terms of food supply. The challenges posed by climate change and the Covid-19 pandemic have reinforced this realization.”

During the lockdowns, we were somewhat concerned about a shortage of vegetable supply, especially in the beginning. We can see that the Chinese government is supporting in setting up new greenhouse projects in recent years. “Many greenhouse complexes in the vicinity of big cities have already been built, like in Shanghai, but there are still some under

March-April 2022

Greenhouses

Vegetable producer YouYou (Group) in Shanghai

developing, like in Beijing. In this way, the chains are kept short, so that food quality and food security can be better guaranteed.”

Hurdles to be overcome The development of high-tech greenhouse horticulture does, however, still face some hurdles. High energy prices, for example, are putting a heavy strain on companies' profits.

“Energy prices are, of course, a global issue, but in China last year the price of gas in peak consumption season in some cities were twice as high. Since many high-tech greenhouses in the country are heated by gas, this creates a heavy burden.”

But the horticultural expertise is perhaps another issue, explains Gloria. Because China has a short modern horticultural history, it takes time to have real local good expertise. Of course, we have seen some very good professionals in the market already in recent years, but the market needs are huge.

Western European suppliers can play a clear role in this.

Svensson also supports

March-April 2022

entrepreneurs in improving their cultivation yields and reducing their energy costs by climate screen solutions and advisory services. For example, by using our energy-saving screens, growers can achieve savings of about 47 up to 70 percent by choosing different types of screens.

Sustainability is another important topic to address, which is linked to green food supply and less use of chemicals is the trend. Svenson’s insect nets help to limit the entry of insects and pests, allowing entrepreneurs to optimize their production and reduce the need for crop protection by using pesticides.

Another challenge in the market is lead time pressure, as new greenhouses owners very often have a very tight construction schedule. That presents challenges for all suppliers on the lead time, Fortunately, we can usually deliver quickly, as we have our own factory in China. To be closer to our clients and increase customer satisfaction is our target.”

Offering total solutions Nevertheless, Gloria expects that developments in Chinese horticulture will offer plenty of opportunities for Svensson and Dutch suppliers in the years to come. Especially China Government plays a big role, in recent Conference of Rural and Agriculture Work, it gives the guidance of further accelerate the development on the facility agriculture sector. That is very good news," says Gloria. "And a platform like Dutch Greenhouse Delta enables us to seize the opportunities that are and will become available. Especially because, together with the other DGD partners, we can offer a total solution for hightech greenhouse from the project design to construction extended to cultivation. And that is exactly what parties in China are interested in; it saves them time and money.

Meanwhile, in several projects, DGD is very active as an organization, with its initiative, there will undoubtedly be more opportunities.

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

33

Desert Farming

CRITICAL TO PAIR TREE-PLANTING DRIVES WITH WATER-WISE TECHNOLOGIES: DAKE RECHSAND

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hile tree planting is a tested-andproven means to reverse deforestation and improve ecology, it cannot come at the expense of high water usage, especially in water-stressed regions like MENA, says sustainability champion Dake Rechsand.

In view of increasing treeplanting drives across the MENA region, Dake Rechsand, a company specializing in sustainable solutions for

34 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

water conservation and desert farming, has emphasized the need for greater adoption of water-efficient practices. This imperative boils down to the region’s pressing water scarcity, according to the company.

“The MENA region is home to 6.3% of the world’s population, but only access to 1.4% of the world’s renewable freshwater. This classifies as acute water scarcity. At the same time,

the region grapples with deforestation, which needs redressal through treeplanting drives. Therefore, it’s critical to pair the drives with water-wise technologies, so that they do not aggravate existing scarcity,” said Chandra Dake, Founder and CEO of Dake Rechsand.

There are multiple benefits associated with trees: Oxygen supply, air purification, natural cooling, emission reduction, food, fodder,

March-April 2022

Desert Farming as part of the larger green and sustainability goals.

Drip irrigation, which is known to reduce water use by 30-65%, is a plausible solution, but it does accompany sizable initial costs and labour. Mulching techniques, too, are actionable if the water reduction target is about 25%.

BioChar, which retains water for extended periods and increases yield, is another promising solution, but biomass-oriented sourcing runs into production challenges in the region.

Taking stock of the advantages and drawbacks of the aforementioned practices, Dake Rechsand has developed its Breathable Sand technology. The low-cost product retains water at the roots, where it is needed, but

also allows air to circulate freely, thus oxygenating roots and enabling high yield. The anti-seepage properties of Breathable Sand also lead to greater fertilizer preservation.

This water-saving technology is predicated on the idea of achieving holistic sustainability.

“We subscribe to the notion that the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now. But we also understand that treeplanting proponents need a cost-effective, water-efficient, and easy-to-deploy solution that can make their drives environmentally responsible and sustainable. To them we offer the Breathable Sand,” added Chandra Dake, in closing.

For more information, visit www.dakerechsand.com

money, and more. According to Biologist T M Das, a tree’s economic value over a 50-year life cycle is a whopping $710,260. In desert regions like MENA, the value is significantly higher, considering the complexities involved in sustaining a tree in optimal condition.

Conventional tree planting techniques aren’t feasible in the MENA region due to desert soil, high salinity, arid/semi-arid climate, and seepage, among other geographical and climatic deterrents. While the yield is low, the required water input to achieve it is significantly high. This status quo needs to be addressed immediately, with tree planting drives increasing across the region

March-April 2022

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

35

Dutch Floriculture

COOPERATION IN HORTICULTURE BETWEEN THE UAE AND THE NETHERLANDS

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he United Arab Emirates and the Netherlands are cooperating in innovation of the Horticultural sector. Introduction of high tech systems in horticulture, will lead to more local production in the UAE in line with the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy. Both domestic production and secure, stable imports of food have become top priority on the UAE’s agenda. In addition to the aim of establishing the country as a world leading hub in innovation.

Due to the enormous tourism sector, Dubai is an interesting market for the Netherlands in term of

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floriculture. The UAE wants to stimulate its own production and therefore stimulates investments in the horticulture sector which many investors looking to use the Dutch technologies.

The Dutch horticulture technologies and practices can make a significant contribution to making the Gulf Region more self-sufficient in different sectors including horticulture.

The Netherlands is the largest flower producing country in the world with about 68% contribution of the annual flower production.

The Netherlands is known as the country of world’s beautiful flowers. It is world

famous for its wide fields of tulips with wonderful colors.

Around 2 billion of these tulips are exported to many countries worldwide. The United Arab Emirates could soon be known for its roses.

Since last February, three million roses have been exported from Advanced Horticulture's farm - just outside Al Hayer, which is about halfway between Dubai and Al Ain - to Holland.

The Netherlands floriculture market is projected to register a CAGR of 4.7% during the forecast period (2021-2026).

Floriculture is one of the lucrative industry in Netherlands. Spring is usually the busiest time of year at the Aalsmeer Flower Auction in the Netherlands, the world's blossom trade capital. For the Netherlands, flowers are a major industry. Roughly 60% of the country is devoted to agriculture or horticulture, and the multi-billion-euro flower industry accounts for 10% of its Gross Domestic Product.

The flower market in the Netherlands is a dynamic, fast-growing global industry, defined by three major

March-April 2022

Dutch Floriculture components, growers, wholesalers, and retailers.

The United Arab Emirates prefer to import Dutch flowers because the Netherlands is the main hub for international floral trade. The Netherlands import flowers from different countries (Ecuador, Ethiopia, Kenya, and others). This is why some Dutch flower exporters can sell any flower available and this attracts foreign flower wholesalers and flower shop.

Flowers are one of the main export products in the Netherlands and especially tulips and roses. The most important countries who import Dutch flowers and plants are Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy and Russia. But also a lot of other countries in the world import their flowers from Holland.

Why the Netherlands is the perfect country for tulip growing? The soil in the polders is continuously drained, creating perfect growing conditions for tulip bulbs, which love well drained but moist soil.

However, The COVID-19 pandemic has plunged the world’s largest flower auction on the outskirts of Amsterdam into chaos. The cut flower sales volume in the auction has been decreased to 595, 064 thousands and 557,436 thousands in March, and April 2020 respectively than 762,513 thousands and 695,516 thousands in 2019 of the same period respectively.

In 2019, the Netherlands export accounted for 47.9% of the global exports in the cut flower segment and ranked 1st in the same year. In 2020, the Netherlands exported 551,098 metric ton of cut flowers valued at USD 4,260,31 thousand. Thus, the increased

March-April 2022

demand for cut flowers globally is driving the export market in the Netherlands.

There is a huge potential for export of floriculture products and is long term driving force, given it adopts improved production technologies.

Therefore, the attractive growth in export market is anticipated to influence the significant market growth over the forecast period.

Among the cut flowers, rose accounted for a significant share of the market followed

by Chrysanthemum. The largest segment in Netherland is Rosa. This is due to the increased demand from peak days and the adoption of new technologies, the roses production in the country is increasing which is anticipated to boost the growth of the floriculture market during the forecast period.

The Netherlands Floriculture market is segmented by Type of Flower (Rosa, Tulip, Chrysanthemum, Gerbera, Freesia, Lily, Orchids, Nursery Stocks, Other Types of Flowers). The market offers market size in USD million in terms of value and thousand metric ton in terms of volume.

The roses are widely grown in greenhouses with LED lighting to produce top quality roses with improved yield. The sustainable and organic production is a key focus point of growers as it is highly preferred by the consumers.

The rose production in the Netherlands increased from about 1,127,309 thousand euros in 2017 to 1,137,892 thousand euros in 2020. This suggests the bolstering market of roses in the Netherlands.

UAE cut flower market witnessed significant growth in 2019 owing to growth in

hospitality and event sectors.

A $163 million fund was launched by the Department of Culture and Tourism to enhance Abu Dhabi’s portfolio of leisure and business events.

This mega fund was a part of Ghadan 21 program to accelerate Abu Dhabi’s Economy.

The UAE cut flower market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.3% during 20212027. The government has established Dubai Flower Center as an economic zone with an aim of offering tax concessions and customs duty benefits to the expatriate investors and thus facilitating floriculture industry in the country. To attract investments from expatriate, government is allowing complete foreign ownership, no currency restrictions, 100% import & export tax exemption, 100% repatriation of capital, and profits and others benefits for people setting up business in DFC. Increasing government investment in floriculture industry would augment cut flower market in the country.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the biggest Flower Show and Flower Carnival event to be held in November 2022 in Abu Dhabi organized

by Motion International Exhibition. For more information about this show, visit www.motion-int.com.

Erik Smidt Agricultural Counsellor for the GCC - Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

37

Ventilation

THE VARIOUS VENTILATION OPTIONS FOR POULTRY HOUSES

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asically, you have the choice between two ventilation principles in poultry farming: natural and mechanical.

Natural ventilation One advantage of natural ventilation is the low investment due to the use of natural resources and simple installation. Natural ventilation is based on the chimney effect.

Warm air rises and disappears through an opening in the roof ("chimney"). This creates a slight

38 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

negative pressure in the stable and fresh air is sucked in through inlet openings on the side (those with flaps or curtains opened or closed). Systems based on natural ventilation have, however, become less popular due to the disadvantages of manual control and limited capacity.

Mechanical ventilation The required air exchange or temperature change is not always sufficient with natural ventilation. This can be

regulated much more accurately and easily with the help of mechanical ventilation.

Fans provide much more certainty about the amount of displaced air.

With mechanical ventilation, the air can be extracted by fans, blown in, or a combination of both. In those cases, we speak of ventilation on negative pressure, positive pressure or equal pressure.

Ventilation based on negative pressure is by far the most common. But with all

March-April 2022

Ventilation length ventilation, tunnel ventilation and cross ventilation.

Combinations of these systems are also possible, such as length and ridge ventilation, or length and tunnel ventilation.

Ridge ventilation With ridge ventilation, the fans are mounted in ducts that are placed in the ridge of the roof.

The air inlets are then incorporated in the side walls.

Ridge ventilation is generally only used for minimum ventilation.

Length ventilation With length ventilation, the fans are in the end wall and the air inlets in the side walls. By further increasing or decreasing the speed of fans and opening or closing the air inlets, a wide range of air exchange is possible.

Tunnel ventilation For maximum ventilation, tunnel ventilation is often used where the inlets are mounted in the end façade and the fans in the opposite end façade. This makes it possible to blow the air through the house at high speed during very hot days. The high speed provides a wind chill effect, which gives the chickens a pleasant-feeling temperature. sorts of alternative housing systems, in which the chickens regularly have to go outside, the demand for other ventilation systems is also increasing, in particular the demand for equal pressure ventilation. With this system, direct flow over the animals through the hatches is prevented.

Mechanical ventilation for poultry barns is available in a variety of forms. Below is a brief description of some common systems: ridge ventilation,

March-April 2022

Fans When choosing the type of fans used in poultry houses, i.e. the ‘hardware’ of the ventilation system, it is important to consider the following: • t he durability and reliability of the fans • t he suitability for intensive use • the controllability • t he resistance to aggressive conditions Multifan Galvanized Box Fans are highly reliable and thanks to their aerodynamic design, these fans combine high air output with low energy consumption.

The box of the fan makes it easy to position the fan in a wall, and to equip your fan with add-ons such as a shutter. In addition, the Galvanized Box Fan can also be combined with light traps or air filters.

All Multifan fans are developed and made in-house in the Netherlands.

For more information, visit www.vostermansventilation.com

Cross ventilation For cross ventilation, the fans are placed in a side wall. The inlets are positioned in the opposite side wall.

Because the distance from inlet to fan is short, it becomes possible to exchange the air in a house at a very low speed. This system is suitable for moving both a little and a lot of air.

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

39

Livestock Farming

SELECTING A CALF MILK REPLACER THIS SPRING

T

he first 0-6 months in a calf’s life is crucial.

According to Teagasc research, although the first 6 months of life only equates to 8% of that animal’s total life, it is responsible for 25% of its total growth in weight.

Sexual maturity in female replacement calves is also directly linked to weight of the animal rather than age. These two points are critical when we are talking about rearing calves. If calves don’t reach their target weights in the first 15 months of life, studies have shown that in the first lactation they will produce up to 156 litres less than their potential, and therefore longevity within the herd is compromised.

Choosing a Milk Replacer Selecting a high-quality milk replacer is vital in achieving these targets. When it comes to feeding milk replacer on farm, the three main benefits include:

40 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

1. C ost effectiveness relative to whole milk.

2. R educed risk of disease transfer within the herd.

3. C onsistency in the calf’s diet.

Milk replacer must be derived from and contain a high level of dairy content.

Dairy proteins are more easily digestible and available to the calf, compared to plant-based proteins/plant substitutes.

Agritech’s Vitalac Calf Milk Replacer Range offers a wellbalanced level of highly digestible fat and protein, using carefully selected high quality dairy ingredients. These quality ingredients are further enhanced using advanced techniques such as Low Heat Spray Cooling Technology, meaning the ingredients do not suffer any denaturing during the manufacturing process.

Milk Replacer Feeding Guidelines Milk replacer should replicate

the role of good quality whole milk, typically offered at 12.5% milk solids (Example: 125 g powder, mixed into 875ml clean warm water to make 1 litre of milk). Therefore, feeding a calf in a twice-a-day system at 6 litres/day would result in offering the calf 750 g of total powder/day.

When mixing, adhere to the milk replacer guidelines using fresh clean warm water and sterile mixing and feeding utensils. The optimal drinking temperature of the calf milk replacer is 39°C. To prepare the milk, dissolve the powder in two-thirds of the amount of water at 55-60°C and add the remaining water at room temperature until the optimum drinking temperature is reached.

For more information, visit www.agritech.ie

March-April 2022

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