Embrapa creates system that saves 61% of water in the production of vegetables

A system developed by Embrapa Tropical Agroindustry (CE) promises to make a leap in the economy of water and fertilizers in protected vegetable crops. The technology, which collects, treats, and reuses the nutrient solution drained in soilless systems, increased water use efficiency by 61% and reduced fertilizer consumption by 29%, according to tests in a commercial grape tomato crop in the Serra da Ibiapaba (CE). The method uses low-cost sand filters and ultraviolet (UV) sterilization to eliminate impurities and pathogens, allowing the nutrient solution to be reapplied in fertigation without risks to production. Even with a higher initial investment, the reduction in input and energy costs makes the system have a lower operational cost over the production cycle. The solution drained from the pots is collected by gutters installed under the plants and sent to a reservoir. From there, it passes through sand filters constructed with plastic bottles, gravel, and fine sand, in a slow ...