The new greenhouse signifies a monumental shift from weather-dependent practices to year-round, optimized breeding of critical crops like tomatoes, potatoes, cereals, and hay plants. This not only accelerates the development of new varieties but also empowers researchers to:
- Combat Climate Change: By fostering the creation of climate-resilient crops, the greenhouse empowers Estonia's agricultural sector to adapt to changing weather patterns.
- Enhance Food Security: The ability to develop higher-yielding, disease-resistant crops contributes to national food security and paves the way for increased export opportunities.
- Drive Innovation in Plant Science: The controlled environment allows for efficient testing of new breeding techniques and information technology solutions, propelling Estonia's plant science expertise.
"The completion of the greenhouse marks a giant leap for METK," says Andre Veskioja, the Centre's director. We can now conduct research independent of weather conditions, leading to faster variety development and a stronger agricultural sector."
This milestone project received crucial support from the Ministry of Regional Affairs and Agriculture through the Estonian Rural Development Programme 2014-2020. Additionally, proceeds from greenhouse gas emission allowance trading were utilized for construction.
The greenhouse marks the first phase of a comprehensive development plan for the Jõgeva research and breeding complex. Future phases will see the construction of a dedicated breeding center and a new main building for laboratories, offices, and workshops, further solidifying METK's commitment to groundbreaking plant science research.
