This program seeks to reduce energy use and increase resource use efficiency by employing new light-blocking (Smart Glass) and existing light-shifting (LLEAF) films in glasshouses operated by the protected cropping industry.

Delivered through the Future Food Systems CRC, this research builds off previous Hort Innovation Vegetable Fund investments into smart glass, namely Novel glass projects (VG15038 and VG16070).

The project outcome will be increased knowledge and uptake of light-blocking and light shifting films in the Australian vegetable industry that will contribute to reduced energy, and potentially greater nutrient and water use efficiency.

The project is based at the National Vegetable Protected Cropping Centre (NVPCC) on the Hawkesbury Campus of Western Sydney University.

This project has been funded by Hort Innovation, using the research and development levies listed below and contributions from the Australian Government. Hort Innovation is the grower-owned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture.

• Vegetable Fund