Evaluation of energy and water consumption in greenhouse and outdoor lettuce production systems

Efficient energy consumption, both direct and indirect, is crucial for sustainable production, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and production costs.
Greenhouse production systems are generally associated with a high incorporation of production factors and, consequently, high levels of energy consumption and environmental impacts.
In this context, this paper aims to assess energy and water consumption in greenhouse and outdoor production systems for lettuce cultivation in Portugal.
Experimental work was conducted in two greenhouses and two outdoor plots, covering the entire lettuce cultivation cycle from site preparation to harvest.
Based on energy and water consumption data, as well as productivity data, energy efficiency indicators were determined, including specific energy, energy productivity, as well as specific water consumption and water productivity.
The relative contribution of different production factors to greenhouse gas emissions was also determined.
From the results of this experimental work for lettuce cultivation, it is evident that the greenhouse production system exhibits better energy efficiency indicators compared to the outdoor system, as well as lower irrigation water consumption and higher productivity.
Regarding the contribution of production factors to greenhouse gas emissions, this displays a direct relationship with the total energy consumption in each system.

I International Symposium on Protected Cultivation, Nettings and Screens for Mild Climates

J.P. Marcelino, D. Rezende Coelho, J.C. Rico, F. Baptista

energy efficiency, greenhouse production, lettuce production

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2025.1437.51