In this episode, we speak with Jonathan Webb, Founder and CEO of AppHarvest.

AppHarvest, which went public in 2021, is building some of the largest indoor farms in the world, combining conventional agricultural techniques with today’s technology to grow non-GMO, chemical-free produce to be sold to the top 25 U.S. grocers. The company’s first controlled-environment agriculture facility, opened in 2020 in Morehead, Ky., spans 60 acres. It uses 90% less water than a typical farm because of a sophisticated circular irrigation system and 10-acre rainwater retention pond.

In conversation with Gil and Chad, Jonathan talked about the unique aspects of AppHarvest’s business, his personal journey in starting the company, the parallels of ag-tech with the solar revolution, the specific advantages of Controlled Environment Agriculture, what it’s like to experience rapid growth while maintaining a culture of excellence, how ESG drives their business, and much more. We hope you enjoy this spirited conversation with a passionate climate solutions entrepreneur as much as we did.

Bio

Jonathan Webb LinkedIn

Jonathan Webb Twitter

AppHarvest Twitter

AppHarvest Website

AppHarvest 2020 ESG Report

Article: Is This Giant Greenhouse in Kentucky the Future of Farming? (Rolling Stone, August 22, 2021)

Article: Martha Stewart’s recipes using AppHarvest tomatoes

Email your feedback to Chad, Gil, Hilary, and Guy at climatepositive@hasi.com or tweet them to @ClimatePosiPod.