Affinor Growers Inc, a vertical grower, announced it has been issued Patent No. 38806 by the Superintendencia de Industria y Comercio (Industry and Commerce), Republica de Colombia for “vertical growing towers for automated horticulture and agriculture”.
Affinor’s vertical farming towers can be used to sustainably grow fruits, vegetables and cannabis in greenhouses and indoor facilities. The towers are part of a complete vertical farming technology solution encompassing automation, water conservation, soil remediation and alternative energy.
Nick Brusatore, CEO of Affinor Growers said: "Affinor’s simplistic, yet intricate ecological approach will define the future of vertical farming. I look forward to unveiling the next automated lines for herbs and high-demand leafy greens like kale, spinach and romaine lettuce. Our technology not only combats climate change and sustainability issues, but also assists countries to become more self-sufficient in high-quality food production.”
The United States Patent and Trademark Office issued the first patent for Affinor's towers in November 2020. Nick expects Affinor to be issued additional patents in the coming year from several other countries.
2022 licensing
The company plans to offer its technology for licensing in 2022, wherever patent protection has been achieved. Affinor expects to showcase its patented commercial towers this year, in its 15,000 square foot greenhouse in Abbotsford BC, growing strawberries for local markets.
The company plans to aggressively continue to build its patent portfolio of mechanical and process designs that address sustainability and climate change issues affecting the global agriculture sector. Affinor is also pursuing opportunities in other sectors, such as decorative flowers, reforestation, biotech, pharmaceutical and nutraceuticals.