From battling against nature to growing with it While controlled environmental agriculture is a key solution for food production in a changing climate, we simultaneously have to reduce its negative impact. Our commitment to long-term solutions and innovative technologies places us at the forefront of sustainable horticulture. By integrating the best technologies, we help to create a greener, more resilient food system. With our deep knowledge and experience, we empower growers to lead the shift towards energy independence, fossil-free cultivation, water health, and automated cultivation. All while enhancing productivity and profitability for our clients. Energy independence With renewable energy, residual heat, and smart networks, Certhon helps growers become energy-independent. Keeping energy costs manageable and stable. Fossil-free cultivation We reduce the use of fossil fuels through more efficient systems and the use of biogenic CO₂, enabling sustainable and climate-adaptive cultivation without compromising performance. Water health Through filtration, recycling, and rainwater collection, we promote circular water use — resulting in stronger plants and cleaner water. Labour automation Certhon automates cultivation, harvesting, and monitoring, reducing physical labor for growers and allowing them to focus more on strategy. Paving the way for future-proof growth. Our approach to sustainability Sustainability is woven into everything we do. We strive to minimize our ecological footprint by developing efficient and environmentally friendly solutions. This commitment extends to both our operations and the projects we undertake. All our projects aim to increase energy efficiency and reduce water consumption without compromising crop quality. Innovation as the driving force Innovation is central to our sustainability strategy. By continuously investing in research and development, we introduce groundbreaking technologies that reduce the environmental impact of horticulture. Our advanced greenhouses and indoor farms employ the latest techniques in climate control, LED lighting, and automated cultivation systems. These innovations enable growers to achieve higher yields while using fewer natural resources. Sustainable energy solutions At Certhon, we prioritize sustainable energy sources such as geothermal energy, waste heat, heat pumps, green gas, electric boilers on surplus renewables, and biomass. These innovations reduce reliance on fossil fuels and minimize the ecological footprint of our projects. Our technologies provide efficient energy solutions that contribute to a green and sustainable future for the horticulture sector. Sustainable solutions in practice All our solutions are designed with a future-forward approach and are successfully implemented today. We integrate smart technology and plant sciences with a commitment to achieving the most sustainable and energy-efficient solutions. Each innovation promotes sustainability and moves us closer to emission-free cultivation. Here are just a few of the innovations and techniques we deploy in our project implementations: Smart air circulation The JSK represents a world-first in precision cooling technology. Developed by Certhon, this unique cooling system is designed for both cooling and dehumidifying greenhouses. Its intelligent air circulation ensures highly uniform air distribution. Combined with precise control over relative humidity and temperature, this system maintains optimal climate control within the greenhouse. By utilizing waste heat and recovering latent heat, our greenhouses operate highly efficient, significantly reducing energy costs. Heat pump Heat pumps offer an efficient solution for year-round climate control in greenhouses by extracting heat from the ground, nearby water sources, or industrial waste streams to warm the greenhouse during winter. In summer, the same system can provide cooling, helping maintain a stable and optimal temperature for plant growth. Thermal Energy Storage System (ATES) Excess heated water produced during summer is stored in the ground using a thermal energy storage (ATES) system. A heat pump extracts heat from the ground when heating the greenhouse is required again. Aquifer Storage & Recovery (ASR) Captured rainwater is temporarily stored above ground for filtration purposes. Using a specialized well, the filtered water is then infiltrated into an aquifer layer in the ground. When water is needed for cultivation, it is pumped up as required and stored in the above-ground rainwater storage. Underground water storage proves to be a smart and functional solution for preserving water for future use. Aquathermy system An aquathermy system efficiently and sustainably heats greenhouses by harnessing natural heat from surface water sources, such as canals. Implementing an aquathermy system enhances the sustainability of greenhouse heating solutions even further. Maximizing energy-efficient cultivation Real-time insights into plant transpiration and photosynthesis provide growers with the knowledge needed to cultivate as energy-efficiently as possible and improve production. This includes optimizing water delivery, preventing diseases and pests, and initially focusing on the relationship between photosynthesis and transpiration. Cultivation trials in climate chambers thus become an indispensable tool for optimal resource utilization in greenhouse farming. Sustainable Development Goals Goals By questioning the status quo of growing we can constantly improve how we feed and green the world. We believe in a healthy world for everyone. In terms of food, ecology and the economy. So we continually challenge ourselves and our customers, not only to reinvent food systems, but also to help shape a healthy economic climate that matches those beliefs. 06. Clean water and sanitation 95% less water use 09. Industry, innovation and infrastructure Innovative growing systems. Shortened and resilient supply chains 12. Responsible consumption and production Sustainable production, less food waste 13. Climate action All electric production 02. Zero hunger Local, safe and sustainable food. Even in extreme conditions. Your partner in sustainable horticulture Our impact on the future At Certhon, we see it as our responsibility to contribute to sustainable food production for the growing global population. By collaborating with our partners and customers, we create solutions that are not only economically viable but also environmentally and socially responsible. Together, we are building a future where sustainable agriculture is the standard, not the exception. Certhon stands for integrity, innovation, and sustainability. We are committed to transforming the horticulture sector and making a positive impact on the environment. Our holistic approach ensures that sustainability is integrated into every phase of the project, from design to implementation and maintenance. Invest in a green future with us. At Certhon, we believe in progress through green innovation, and we are dedicated to realizing that future together with you. Projects For every project, we offer the most sustainable solutions available. Technology that respects nature. Empowering our customers to make informed choices for sustainable growth. A fully sustainably heated greenhouse by using the free power of the sun Tesselaar, The Netherlands Learn more Combination of innovative technologies provides energy extraction Koppert Cress, The Netherlands Learn more Intensive collaboration for ultimate energy-efficiency in the greenhouse Opti-flor, The Netherlands Learn more Interested? Looking for a beautiful and sustainable outcome for your business too? Contact us today. Our team is ready to assist you: +31 174 22 50 80. Contact Lotte van Rijn Chief Executive Officer (CEO) John van der Sande Chief Innovation Officer (CINO)