Rolling out the robots: Ontario has deep robotics roots in the automotive sector, and that expertise is helping drive horticulture research

摘要

Robotic technologies developed in the auto sector are now driving innovation in horticulture. And regardless of whether you're talking about car plants or plants of a potted variety, the goal is to boost efficiencies and reduce labour costs. Labour is a significant cost for greenhouse growers - about 30 per cent of annual operating expenses, according to Statistics Canada. Growers are looking for new ways to control costs, and automation is the key. Help is on the way.