Maastricht University Opens Nick Bos Greenhouse in Venlo

On 8 October 2024, Maastricht University officially opened its new sustainable research greenhouse on the Brightlands Campus Greenport Venlo. The opening marks a significant step in research into sustainable food production. The university has named the greenhouse after Nick Bos, the former Vice Chair of its Executive Board who stepped down earlier this year.

The high-tech greenhouse covers 1,600 m² and provides researchers with the opportunity to develop climate-resilient crops and innovative agricultural techniques. The greenhouse is completely gas-free and equipped with sustainable technologies for energy supply, climate control, and lighting. This makes it an essential tool for the Brightlands Future Farming Institute, which, studies new crops and develops circular horticultural techniques.

At the same time, a cooperation agreement between Maastricht University and the municipality of Venlo was celebrated, with both parties investing €8 million each in the growth of academic research and education in the region. The collaboration focuses on sustainable solutions for food production and technological innovation, with the ambition to expand the student population in Venlo to approximately 1,200.

During the festive opening, Venlo’s alderman Erwin Boom, Ingrid Vermeer, director of Brightlands Campus Greenport Venlo, Ena Hartig, Vice President R&D at BASF Nunhems, Rianne Letschert, chair of Maastricht University’s Executive Board, and Elianne Demollin-Schneiders, provincial deputy of Limburg, each unveiled a part of a mural, an artwork by Robin Nas.

With these developments, Maastricht University hopes not only to expand its research capabilities but also to contribute to the local economy and sustainable food production in North Limburg.

Text: Patrick Marx
Photografy: Photostique