On Wednesday afternoon, December 4, World Horti Center officially opened its seventh theme square, Power of Plants.
This square puts the plant at the center and demonstrates how today’s challenges can be transformed into solutions that contribute to a more sustainable, productive, and future-proof horticulture sector. In the presence of more than 30 attendees, the final plants were planted in the indoor forest by the participants. During the afternoon, Ermi van Oers, among others, gave an inspiring presentation about energy generated by plants.
What is Power of Plants?
“When horticulture is promoted, the focus is often on glass and steel; entrepreneurs and suppliers proudly showcase the (mechanical) technologies they have developed or offer. This approach is understandable when the emphasis is on mass production (as many kilos per square meter as possible), but it no longer aligns with today’s vision” says Jim Koop, Creative Manager at World Horti Center. Power of Plants centers on the plant, with technology as a tool to ensure the healthiest possible product. At this latest theme square at World Horti Center, these techniques are integrated to make a piece of lush nature thrive in an unexpected location: an enclosed space without natural daylight.
Inspiring Presentations
During the opening on Wednesday, December 4, several interesting presentations were on the agenda. Puck van Holsteijn, CEO of World Horti Center, kicked off the afternoon with a welcoming speech. This was followed by a presentation from Jim Koop, Creative Manager at World Horti Center, who shared more about the story behind and the development of the theme square. Lecturer Roel van Heijningen and student Larissa from MBO Westland also took the floor to talk about the use of data and technology in cultivation.
Ermi van Oers from Nova Innova gave an inspiring presentation on energy generated by plants. This energy is released through a process in the soil, captured by a biological battery, and can power special lights. The ‘Park of Tomorrow’ project in Rotterdam uses this technology, making it the first park in the world to be illuminated by energy generated by plants.
Official Opening
After the engaging presentations, the final plants were planted in the indoor forest by the six participants of the theme square: Jort Schalke from RED Horticulture, Roos Buijsrogge from Koppert, Juan Migliora from Van Iperen International, Kristina Arutyunyan from Skytree, Kim Helderman from Letsgrow.com and Victor Vijfvinkel from Hoogendoorn Growth Management. This happened under the watchful eye of more than 30 attendees and they were joined by Larissa from MBO Westland, Ermi van Oers from Nova Innova and Jim Koop and Puck van Holsteijn from World Horti Center.
All got to work with gloves on and planted several beautiful green plants with a trowel. Puck van Holsteijn, CEO of World Horti Center, concludes: “I am proud of the final result of this seventh theme square and the collaboration taking place here between leading companies. It was an inspiring afternoon with great energy.”
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