Swedish Vertical Farming Pioneer Ljusgarda Showcases AI-Driven Crop Growth at UNECE
Geneva, Switzerland – October 31, 2025 — At the recent United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) meeting in Geneva, Swedish vertical farming innovator Ljusgarda unveiled groundbreaking research demonstrating how artificial intelligence (AI) and biology can be integrated to transform indoor agriculture. Highlighting a 34 percent increase in crop yields, the company showcased its novel system that applies real-time plant physiology data to automate and optimize cultivation environments.
Harnessing AI for Sustainable Agriculture
Ljusgarda, supported by Vinnova—Sweden’s Innovation Agency—presented its pioneering project during the 17th session of UNECE’s Team of Specialists on Innovation and Competitiveness Policies. The event gathered policymakers, researchers, and international organizations to discuss the role of AI and innovation in fostering sustainable, inclusive development.
As the sole private-sector representative, Ljusgarda shared its unique perspective on data-driven cultivation methods that align technological advances with ecological principles. Their approach centers on creating ecosystems where technology and biology operate in harmony to boost productivity without compromising sustainability.
From Data Delays to Instant Responsiveness
Erik Lundgren, Founder and Chief Research Officer at Ljusgarda, described the project as a fundamental shift in agricultural data usage. “Previously, plant data was analyzed after growth cycles, limiting its usefulness for real-time decision-making. Our system reduces the data feedback loop from weeks to seconds,” Lundgren explained.
By leveraging advanced sensors that monitor subtle physiological indicators of plant stress, Ljusgarda’s AI algorithms continuously adjust environmental factors — primarily irrigation — with no human intervention. This closed-loop system ensures that plants receive precisely what they need, right when they need it.
Precision Irrigation Drives Remarkable Yield Gains
The research focused on optimizing irrigation alone, revealing how targeted, real-time adjustments can significantly improve plant growth. “The 34 percent yield increase was achieved by controlling only one environmental parameter,” Lundgren noted. “The greatest effort went into interpreting complex plant data, but this R&D effort lays essential groundwork for scaling the technology commercially.”
The scalable design means the system is compatible with existing industry infrastructure, facilitating adoption without costly overhauls. This pragmatic approach underscores Ljusgarda’s commitment to developing real-world solutions rather than purely experimental innovations.
Decoding the Language of Plants
Looking ahead, Ljusgarda aims to refine its AI by tailoring it to the unique physiological signatures of different plant species. Lundgren shared, “Each plant experiences and responds to stress differently—even among varieties within the same family. Our sensors and algorithms identify these unique signatures, enabling the AI to respond intelligently and species-specifically.”
The company plans to apply reinforcement learning techniques to enable continuous optimization throughout the plant growth cycle, further enhancing adaptability and performance.
Advocating for Innovation-Friendly Policies
Besides scientific advancement, Ljusgarda stressed the importance of enabling innovation with supportive policy frameworks. Lundgren urged for simplified, faster grant processes to help startups experiment and iterate boldly with lower risks.
Julia Ragnell, Ljusgarda’s Business Developer, emphasized open collaboration and rapid learning as keys to turning novel ideas into viable technologies. “Successful innovation requires speed, courage to experiment, and structures that encourage iterative development. These principles are especially vital for emerging fields like agricultural AI,” she said.
Building Integrated Ecosystems for a Sustainable Future
Reflecting on the broader vision, Lundgren remarked, “Our goal is to build ecosystems where technology and biology coexist and complement each other—a synergy that benefits food production, health, and nutrition. Participating in the UNECE session highlights the global potential of our work to revolutionize agriculture and beyond.”
As Ljusgarda continues to advance its AI-driven indoor farming technologies, their work exemplifies how smart cultivation can help meet pressing global challenges related to food security and environmental sustainability.
For more information:
Ljusgarda
Erik Lundgren, Founder & Chief Research Officer
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ljusgarda.se
Published by FreshPlaza.com on October 31, 2025
