Maastricht University opens high-tech greenhouse in Venlo
How will we feed the world in 2050 in a sustainable and healthy way? Which techniques will we use for this? Maastricht University will start looking for answers on October 8th in a new, environmentally friendly greenhouse on the Brightlands Campus Greenport Venlo. The greenhouse is vital for the research. Scientists will develop climate-resilient crops and agricultural techniques there, bolstering the North Limburg region's position as a major player in food production.
The greenhouse spans 1,600 m² and features multiple rooms and climate chambers, allowing researchers to investigate the optimal growth of crops under various climatic conditions. The greenhouse itself is a model of sustainability; it does not use fossil fuels and is outfitted with renewable energy for climate control and lighting systems.
The Regio Deal North Limburg, North Limburg's municipalities, and the province of Limburg all contributed to the construction of the research greenhouse. BASF | Nunhems has been involved in the project since its inception, contributing to its substantive development.
UM in Venlo
Maastricht University conducts research and education in Venlo on sustainable and healthy food. Scientists investigate all facets, from cultivation to transportation, health to psychology, and economics to regulation. The greenhouse of the Brightlands Future Farming Institute (BFFI), which is part of the Faculty of Science and Engineering, adds an important piece to the puzzle of sustainable food production. More pieces will follow, as Maastricht University and the municipality of Venlo intend to significantly expand their activities in this city.
BFFI
The greenhouse is the domain of the Brightlands Future Farming Institute that works on technological innovations in the agrifood sector. Together with BASF | Nunhems, Maastricht University investigates how genes and proteins in plants function and cooperate, as well as how the environment affects these processes. Additionally, the partners are developing circular agricultural techniques for sustainable cultivation.
Opening
The greenhouse opening ceremony will be held on October 8th from 15:30 to 17:30 at the Brightlands Campus Greenport Venlo. The ceremony will feature the unveiling of a wall-sized artwork by Robin Nas.
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