horti
Sustainable Horticulture

The horticultural sector aims to be energy-neutral by 2040. Pesticides must be replaced by biological control agents and techniques. Additional effort is also needed to operate fully circular by 2050. In our efforts to contribute to those challenges we work closely with the AgTech Institute of TU Delft, the Erasmus Horticulture and Food Centre and the Institute for Environmental Sciences (CML) of Leiden University. 

Circular business practices can be achieved by reusing organic raw materials and waste. This includes growing on sustainable substrates. Or finding new applications for plant residues. It also involves reusing water, and reusing or recycling packaging materials, greenhouse components, and technical installations. The use of pesticides can be reduced through the breeding of disease-resistant crops and cultivation methods that enhance plant resilience.

Impact
The horticultural sector has a strong, internationally oriented supply chain. It is leading in sustainable horticultural applications. Strengthening this frontrunner position makes sustainable horticultural solutions globally accessible and strengthens the Dutch economy. By becoming more sustainable, the sector can contribute to the transition of the food system toward a predominantly plant-based diet. At the same time it offers promising opportunities for greener cities and greater biodiversity.

Working on solutions

tomatoes

Thesis Lab: The future of energy in horticulture 24/25

In this Thesis Lab master students of the Leiden-Delft-Erasmus universities and universities of applied sciences are exploring how the sector can consume way less energy and become more circular, while preserving its economic viability. 

Morocco

Thesis Lab: Sustainable horticulture in Morocco 24/25

The Moroccan region of Rabat-Sale-Kenitra has the potential to become a semi-arid hotspot of horticultural productivity, with an open business ecosystem, empowering entrepreneurship. Creating associate governance and dealing with the big challenge of limited water availability is a major challenge

biodiversiteit

Challenges for students

Leiden-Delft-Erasmus students participate in different challenges. Such as challenges organized by the Rotterdam School of Management (RSM) and by HortiHeroes. Are you interested in organizing your own challenge? Or looking for challenges for your students to work on? Don't hesitate to contact us.  

INTERVIEW

Erik van Heck

Hoe data en deep learning de tuinbouw verduurzamen

Eric van Heck is professor of Informatie Management en Markten aan de Rotterdam School of Management (RSM), Erasmus University Rotterdam.