Dutch horticulture helping achieve climate goals

Global challenges, Dutch solutions

THE HAGUE – The 28th UN Climate Conference began in Dubai on 30 November, and will run until 12 December. This summit is crucially important for taking tangible steps toward a fair and sustainable approach to the global climate crisis. Dutch horticulture is playing a pivotal role in this approach through its contribution to healthy, local food production, climate adaptation, and the establishment of sustainable ecosystems.

In recent decades, Dutch horticulture has become a major global player in the field of technological solutions for major social challenges such as global population growth, climate change, and demand for local food production. With Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA), the Netherlands can deliver a unique contribution to efficient cultivation systems.  

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During COP28, the Dutch horticulture representatives (Top Sector Horticulture & Starting Materials, AVAG and GreenTech Global) will highlight the possibilities of CEA 8. An optimised climate for a specific crop can be created in a controlled environment, which makes it possible to increase yields on a small area with a limited environmental impact. CEA lowers water consumption, eliminates the need for plant protection products, reduces land use, increases biodiversity, and allows nutrients to be reused. Integrating this method of food production into the environment enables the utilisation of existing waste and sustainable energy sources within a circular system. CEA is highly adaptable to local conditions, making it a versatile solution applicable worldwide.

Provide food, greenery, and better health

CEA is ready to provide urban areas across the globe with food, greenery, and better health. Horticulture is therefore taking us a step closer to the UN sustainability goals (SDGs), such as zero hunger and responsible consumption and production. Anneke van de Kamp of Top Sector Horticulture & Starting Materials: ‘Dutch horticulture is the leading innovative breeding ground for sustainable solutions for global social problems. With its expertise, seeds and technology, the sector is making a significant contribution to food security and safety across the planet. If we combine the innovative power of Dutch expertise in controlled cultivation with local insights, we can jointly develop global, sustainable, and climate-proof solutions. Join the Circular CEA climate movement for affordable fresh and local food for all.’

Three meetings

During COP28, Top Sector Horticulture & Starting Materials, AVAG, GreenTech Global, and a number of leading Dutch horticultural companies are organising three sessions around CEA. The 'Affordable fresh and local food for all' session will take place on Wednesday 06 December at the Food4Climate Pavilion. Here, participants can learn about the potential of CEA and the contribution that horticulture can make to it. On Friday, 08 December, a visit has been planned to a circular, fossil-free greenhouse (Armela Farms) to demonstrate how CEA works in practice. A final meeting will be held on the same day, where the focus will be on forging links and networking.  

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Note from the editor

For more information about this press release, please contact Gert Stiekema, secretary of Top Sector Horticulture & Starting Materials, by calling  +31 6 5282 3884 / +31 6 2998 9003 or e-mailing gertstiekema@topsectortu.nl. Photo credit: Wageningen University & Research.