A Maltese engineering graduate has developed a smart farming app that allows farmers to regulate greenhouse conditions remotely, aiming to boost sustainability and efficiency in agriculture.

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The system, designed by newly graduated engineer James Gatt, uses a network of sensors and micro-controllers to monitor and adjust crucial factors such as temperature, humidity, irrigation, soil moisture, water quality and light levels — all through a mobile app.

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“The app gives farmers the chance to compensate for shortcomings automatically, without needing to be physically present in the greenhouse,” Gatt explained.

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The system can also detect harmful substances or other threats to plants and take corrective action in real time.

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Gatt tested his innovation inside a greenhouse in Xewkija, Gozo, where he studied environmental variables over several months. The setup was integrated with renewable energy sources, including solar panels powering irrigation pumps, to ensure low-cost and sustainable operation.

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At the heart of the project are micro-controllers — tiny computers connected to sensors and motors. These devices are low-energy, can run on batteries, and are highly adaptable to different greenhouse setups.

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Gatt emphasised that smart farming solutions like his are not prohibitively expensive. Instead, they help farmers reduce labour, water, fertiliser and energy use, while improving both the quality and quantity of crops. That means better yields and higher profits with fewer resources wasted.

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He said the project shows how technology can bring practical benefits to farming in Malta and Gozo, where water conservation and efficient energy use are increasingly urgent issues.

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“This is about giving farmers more control, more sustainability and more profitability — without adding to their workload,” he said.

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