Automation and Efficiency: Transforming CIAT’s Germplasm Bank into a Model of Sustainability

The Germplasm Bank at the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT), led by Camilo Ujueta’s vision, has become a beacon of innovation in seed and plant conservation.

Through Project Germo, we explore how technology and sustainability converge to preserve the future of agriculture.

Project Name: Automation of CIAT’s Germplasm Bank
Company: International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT)
Technology Leader: Camilo Ujueta

Project Germo: Where Technology Meets the Earth to Cultivate the Future

Assessment

Camilo Ujueta and his team faced the challenge of modernizing the processes for seed and plant production, with a lack of effective oversight for critical systems such as environmental monitoring, air conditioning, and pumping systems.

The need was clear: to implement a robust system for real-time monitoring and event and variable reporting.

Diagnosis and Strategy

The solution proposed by our engineers involved directly supervising and controlling the complex’s essential systems, using Schneider technology integration.

This approach would enable effective monitoring of critical components, such as environmental monitoring, substations, air conditioning, and more, aligning with CIAT’s requirements and LEED certification standards.

Action Plan

Implementing Schneider’s EcoStruxure Building Management System (BMS) in the Seeds of the Future Building resulted in a notable improvement in event response, control, and energy efficiency. Reports generated by the software facilitated the identification and correction of shortcomings, resulting in over 30% energy savings and more than 50% water savings.

Products and Services

To achieve these results, the CIAT team chose advanced solutions:

  • Schneider’s EcoStruxure Building Operation (EBO) BMS for integrating supervision and monitoring systems.
  • Schneider’s Security Expert electronic security software, integrating CCTV and access control with the BMS.
  • Implementation of lighting control systems, environmental monitoring, and supervision of pumping systems.

The challenge of upgrading our management system was monumental. With Cotel’s engineers, we achieved automation that not only improved our operational efficiency but also led to significant energy and water savings. Cotel’s ability to integrate complex technologies and their support during and after the project has been invaluable.

  • Leonardo Prieto
  • Technological leader, CIAT

Outcome

Thanks to Project Germo, CIAT’s Germplasm Bank has not only enhanced its conservation capabilities but has also redefined what it means to be a sustainable and technologically advanced agricultural center.

This success sets a new standard for similar projects worldwide, proving that innovation and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.