## 6 Building More Efficient Greenhouses in Diverse Climates  
After a series of research carried out during the preparation of this article and based on the knowledge acquired, we present the following recommendations to improve the energy performance of agricultural greenhouses in different climates. It is essential to consider aspects such as design, materials, climate control, and technological innovations. These recommendations are based on recent articles and studies carried out throughout this work.  
Flexible greenhouse design can greatly enhance adaptability to various climates. A modular arched shape, for instance, can be adjusted to different climatic conditions, making it both economical and versatile. In cold climates, a tighter arch helps retain heat, while in hot climates, higher arches facilitate ventilation and cooling. Additionally, greenhouses  
Figure 13: Cucumber plant monitoring devices in a greenhouse environment. On the left, a sensor is attached to a cucumber stem to monitor the plant’s growth and health. On the right, a sensor attached to a cucumber leaf to measure photosynthesis and other vital functions [199].  
with adjustable roofs can maximize sunlight capture in winter and minimize heat input in summer, adapting to seasonal and geographic variations.  
The use of climate-adaptable materials is another key consideration. High-efficiency glass or insulating polymers that provide high light transmission and excellent thermal insulation are crucial. Low-emissivity glasses are ideal for cold climates, while UV-resistant polymers are more suitable for hot climates. In cold regions, employing double or triple covers with layers of air between them can reduce heat loss, while in hot climates, these covers can be treated to reflect excessive solar radiation.  
Integrated climate control technologies are essential for maintaining optimal conditions inside greenhouses. The combination of natural and forced ventilation, including windows, openings, and fans, can optimize air circulation and maintain adequate temperatures in temperate and hot climates. Geothermal heating and cooling systems are effective for both heating greenhouses in cold climates and cooling them in hot climates, utilizing stable underground temperatures to reduce energy consumption. Automated climate control systems using sensors and AI for real-time monitoring and adjustments are crucial. These systems can control irrigation, ventilation, and \(CO_{2}\) enrichment with high precision, quickly adapting to external climate changes.  
Technological innovations such as computational modeling and simulation allow for precise adjustments to management strategies by simulating internal greenhouse conditions, thereby improving energy efficiency and plant growth. Wireless sensor networks (WSN) can be implemented to monitor environmental parameters and automatically adjust the indoor environment to optimize growing conditions.  
An analysis of economic and environmental benefits reveals substantial advantages. Adopting advanced climate control technologies and high-efficiency materials can result in significant long-term savings in operating costs. The use of automated systems and renewable energies, such as solar and geothermal energy, can significantly reduce dependence on fossil fuels and energy costs [224]. Studies show that the integration of heat recovery systems can increase energy efficiency by up to 40%, providing a return on investment in a few months [295]. Additionally, these technologies significantly contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating the environmental impacts of intensive agriculture. The integration of semi-transparent photovoltaic systems not only provides clean energy but also reduces the need for electricity from non-renewable sources, promoting environmental sustainability [44].