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Food Production and the Environment. Managing the environment to maximise food production. Managing the environment. It is impossible to control the global environment – even though human activity has affected it. Managing the environment.
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Food Production and the Environment Managing the environment to maximise food production
Managing the environment • It is impossible to control the global environment – even though human activity has affected it.
Managing the environment • A greenhouse is an example of a habitat where humans are able to control the climate to produce foods that would normally have to be imported.
Managing the environment To grow a successful crop in a greenhouse you need a supply of: • Heat; • Light; • Water; • Carbon dioxide
Managing the environment • Commercial greenhouses need to be carefully sited so that they absorb the maximum amount of energy from the sun. • Most greenhouses usually are positioned with an open aspect to the south
Managing the environment • Extra heating is provided by gas burning boilers that directly heating the air. • What is the advantage of this method of heating?
Managing the environment • It also pumps carbon dioxide into the air which is often a limiting factor for photosynthesis.
Managing the environment • Artificial lighting extends the hours of photosynthesis. • It is important to keep the crops growing. • In winter in the UK there is often less than 8 hours daylight a day
Managing the environment • The levels of water is sensed automatically and delivered as needed. • The most modern greenhouses detect the amount of water needed by using sound detectors that listen to the plants!
Managing the environment • Carbon dioxide levels are also monitored and adjusted. • All these systems are monitored and regulated by computers in modern green houses
Managing the environment • In summer the greenhouse often has to be cooled • When plants get too hot the stomata close and photosynthesis stops
Managing the environment • The greenhouse is cooled by opening vents or painting it white. • Again it is all controlled by computers.
Managing the environment • Pests also have to be controlled – the greenhouse is an ideal environment for them! • Many greenhouse growers will use biological control methods to deal with pests.