Agriculture, a sector responsible for consuming approximately 70% of the world’s freshwater resources, is increasingly facing the dual challenges of water scarcity and outdated irrigation practices. Traditional irrigation methods often result in significant water and nutrient wastage, adversely affecting crop yields and exacerbating food insecurity while also contributing to unnecessary carbon emissions. In response to these pressing issues, Hong Kong-based agriculture technology startup Full Nature Farms has unveiled an innovative solution at CES 2025: the Rocket 2.0 Smart Irrigation Platform.
Founded in 2019 by CEO Ray Lok, Full Nature Farms aims to revolutionize how water is used in agriculture. Prior to this venture, Lok established Evergreens Republic, a USDA-certified organic aquaponics farm that drew attention for its sustainable practices in an era of limited arable land. The Rocket 2.0 system leverages data and artificial intelligence to optimize irrigation, promising a 30% reduction in water costs, lower energy consumption, and enhanced crop yields. This standalone irrigation system integrates sensors that monitor crop yield, soil health, and climate conditions, using real-time data and weather forecasts to automate irrigation schedules precisely.
The implications of the Rocket 2.0 platform are significant for commercial farming operations. Its versatility allows it to be applied across various agricultural settings, including vertical farms, open fields, greenscaping, and vineyards. Full Nature Farms has designed the platform to be financially accessible, offering a subscription model that ranges from $10 to $20 per month per sensor, eliminating upfront costs that often deter farmers from adopting new technologies. This approach not only lowers barriers to entry but also positions Full Nature Farms as a scalable solution provider in the agtech landscape.
The startup’s competitive edge lies in its comprehensive tech ecosystem, which includes automation controllers, LED grow lights, precision grow pipes, and an integrated farm management platform. With approximately $4.5 million raised, Full Nature Farms has established a strong presence in Hong Kong, where it supplies edible flowers and microgreens to over 100 Michelin-starred restaurants and hotel groups. The company’s ambitions extend beyond its home market, with plans to expand into North America and pilot projects slated for Saudi Arabia, the Philippines, Australia, France, and China.
The launch of Rocket 2.0 has not gone unnoticed, as it garnered the CES 2025 Innovation Award in the Sustainability and Energy/Power category. This recognition comes at a time when funding for agtech is rebounding, signaling renewed interest and investment in sustainable agricultural solutions. As Full Nature Farms seeks local partners to test Rocket 2.0, the potential for this technology to transform irrigation practices and enhance food production efficiency is becoming increasingly apparent, promising a more sustainable future for agriculture in the face of growing global challenges.
