Controlled Environment Agricultural Systems (CEA)- future sustainability metric design and role for biodiversity regeneration

To highlight the impact of reactive nitrogen and phosphorus from CEA on wastewater treatment and biodiversity metrics. Investigate alternatives with research-based solutions. Methods Biochemical analysis of reactive nitrogen and phosphorous in the environment. Waste streams are predictable and controllable in CEA systems differing from traditional methods, allowing for an innovative approach towards meeting SDG goals. Methodological, research-based approach towards circular operations for CEA for methods to increase fertiliser (nitrogen and phosphorus) efficiencies before output from CEA. Conclusions • The CEA industry is not regulated, and the environmental impact of operations is rarely discussed, our reliance on reactive nitrogen (N₂) far outweighs the enduring evidential damage, (Delwiche, 1969). • This research highlights how low-cost circular economic concepts for the CEA could increase the NUE of Nitrogen (N) and Phosphorus (P); thus, reducing the removal costs at wastewater treatment centres which causes further CO₂ embodiment. • The application of CEA systems on traditional farms, not only diversifies revenue streams but allows for organic N₂-fixing legumes to restore nutrition in soils contributing to better produce and irrigation whilst delivering SDG sustainability metrics reducing monoculture. • CEA regulation would result in global data sharing, improving efficiencies, and operational practices; reducing waste and advancing the technology's ability to produce higher calorific Phase III crops (wheat and barley). • Further research is still required for the CEA industry targeting energy (kWh/kg) and fertiliser efficiencies (L/kg) to best optimize the system for growing Phase III competitively.