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Van Geel Nursery has been dedicated to sustainable practices for quite some time. Rising energy costs have only intensified this need. Beyond reducing their carbon footprint, owner Martijn van Geel notes that there are also financial benefits to cutting energy consumption. Sustainability is essential to securing the nursery’s long-term viability, but it requires a different approach to cultivation. Martijn has already implemented several key measures: “We’re keeping our windows closed more often and have added a third layer of insulating screens. To keep the greenhouse closed longer, we’ve also installed additional LED lighting. But... this leads to humidity issues," he explains.

“To solve our humidity issues and retain heat and CO₂, we use DryGair,” says Martijn. At Van Geel Nursery, DryGair is part of a comprehensive sustainability package. Together with Royal Brinkman, Van Geel integrated DryGair as a core component of their strategy. The various measures collectively contribute to more sustainable operations. The nursery aims to be climate-neutral by 2040, and DryGair aligns perfectly with this ambitious goal, fitting seamlessly into Van Geel’s broader sustainability strategy. In addition to DryGair, they’ve also invested in a new climate control computer, extra screens, and dimmable LED lights.

Van Geel Nursery has made significant strides in their sustainability efforts. The DryGair units not only dehumidify but also circulate 22,000 m³ of air per hour, keeping the greenhouse air in motion—a factor that promotes healthier, more resilient plants. DryGair also helps maintain a stable climate in the greenhouse. Through their collective investments, including DryGair, Van Geel aims to achieve three main goals: 1) reduce heat consumption through closer cultivation, 2) reduce electricity use with efficient LED lighting, and 3) improve financial outcomes through smarter, more flexible energy management. Martijn reflects positively on the experience: “With DryGair, changing outdoor conditions don’t affect our operations. We don’t need to rely on (cold) outside air, so there’s no need to reheat it.”

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