As greenhouse growers seek to optimize their operations, CO2 application remains a crucial yet challenging factor in increasing yields. Cstainable Inc. has developed an innovative approach to CO2 enrichment, enabling greenhouses worldwide to maximize plant growth, regardless of their ventilation systems.
"Cstainable is a rebranding and relaunch of our concept," explains Aaron Archibald, President of Cstainable Inc. "We've streamlined our operations and are seeing significant momentum in the marketplace. Most growers recognize the value of CO2 for plants, but traditional enrichment methods pose limitations. We've introduced a technology that allows all greenhouses—venting, non-venting, or fully open—to benefit from enhanced CO2 in their plants."
CO2 misters in a cucumber greenhouse
Typically, greenhouses attempt to increase CO2 concentrations from ambient levels of 400 parts per million (ppm) to as much as 1200 ppm, potentially boosting yields by up to 30%. However, this is only feasible in colder months when greenhouses remain sealed. "Once temperatures rise, venting is necessary to prevent overheating, and that means the CO2 being pumped in escapes as well," explains Dil Vashi, Vice President of Cstainable. "This challenge exists in most greenhouses worldwide, especially those in warmer climates, where venting is constant."
To address this, Cstainable has pioneered aqueous CO2 misting technology. "Instead of pumping CO2 gas into the air, which is easily lost, we dissolve CO2 in water and apply it directly to the leaves," says Dil. "This forms a thin film, allowing the CO2 to be absorbed through the leaf surface. Since the CO2 is in water droplets and not in the air, it doesn't escape through vents—enabling CO2 enrichment despite venting."
CO2 misters in a lettuce greenhouse
Versatile and cost-effective CO2 solutions
Cstainable's approach is adaptable to various CO2 sources. "We are completely agnostic when it comes to CO2 supply," says Aaron. "Growers can use commercially purchased CO2, byproducts from their heating systems, or even direct air capture methods. Our infusion system eliminates the need for CO2 compression, which is typically a major energy and cost drain. This makes CO2 application more efficient and economical."
The ability to use different CO2 sources makes the technology highly customizable for different greenhouse operations. "Many greenhouses already have excess CO2 from their existing heat and power systems," notes Dil. "Our technology provides a means to utilize that CO2 effectively rather than letting it go to waste."
CO2 misters in a rose greenhouse
Focusing on greenhouse vegetable crops
Cstainable initially explored various markets before concentrating on greenhouse vegetable production and high-value floriculture. "We focus on greenhouse vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, leafy greens, and berries, as well as high-value floriculture such as roses and orchids, all of which can easily monetize the benefits of our technology into more revenue and profits," Dil explains.
This focus aligns with the global demand for fresh produce. "Worldwide, there are about 500,000 hectares of greenhouse vegetable production—representing a potential $50 billion market," he continues. "This is why we've dedicated our efforts to serving greenhouse vegetable growers, who can immediately see the return on investment."
Being wise about locations and markets
Based in Toronto, Cstainable operates near Leamington, an important area for greenhouse vegetable production in North America. "Leamington is at the heart of the Canadian and US greenhouse industry," says Aaron. "It's home to major distributors like Sunset, Pure Flavor, and Nature Fresh, whose brands are found in grocery stores across North America."
Despite Canada's strong greenhouse sector, domestic production is insufficient to meet North America's demand. "There are around 2,000 hectares of greenhouse vegetables in Canada and only 500 hectares in the US—far from enough to supply a population of nearly 400 million," Dil points out. "That's why a significant portion of greenhouse produce comes from Mexico and Central America."
Photo right:
CO2 misters in a pepper greenhouse
Recognizing this, Cstainable has expanded its reach beyond North America. "We have projects and partnerships in Mexico and El Salvador, where we have our largest customers, Colombia, Ecuador, and North Africa," Aaron shares. "For instance, we're working with one of Morocco's largest greenhouse tomato growers, who exports to Europe."
The type of greenhouse does not matter
"By making CO2 enrichment possible for all greenhouses—venting or not—we're helping growers unlock higher yields and better efficiency," Dil affirms. "This technology bridges the gap between high-tech greenhouse advantages and practical solutions for growers in diverse climates. Even low-tech greenhouses are ideal for our technology."
For more information:
Cstainable Inc.
Dil Vashi, Vice President
dilv@cstainable.com
Aaron Archibald, President
aarona@cstainable.com
www.cstainable.com