The contributions of Controlled-Environment Agriculture in Newfoundland and Labrador

This study explores the role of Controlled-Environment Agriculture (CEA), with a focus on greenhouse farming in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL). It examines the potential of CEA to improve food security, lower carbon emissions, and boost economic resilience in a region characterized by harsh climates and heavy reliance on food imports. The research integrates qualitative insights from 20 expert interviews with national statistics, comparative case studies from Quebec and Sweden, and relevant literature. Findings indicate that greenhouse farming can enhance local food availability, improve product quality, and lower transport-related emissions. However, the overall environmental benefits depend on the energy sources used and the operational scale. The study highlights the tension between stakeholder optimism and economic feasibility, cautioning against equating optimism with opportunity. Particular attention is given to energy challenges (high costs, intermittent renewable supply, and scalability barriers), circular-economy opportunities (industrial waste heat, fisheries by-products, and community organic streams), and realistic economic boundaries. By harnessing renewable resources and innovative technologies, greenhouse farming could reshape the province's agri-food system into a resilient, low-carbon model tailored for the northern context. These findings position NL as a notable example of CEA development under extreme structural constraints, aligning with established case study approaches in sustainability and regional development research. Recommendations include piloting hybrid renewable waste heat systems, implementing targeted policy incentives, and developing locally grounded techno-economic models to manage costs and employment potential.