The institute is testing various methods of water purification to find new ways of reducing the discharge of pesticides. Of 30 purification methods reviewed, four technologies were selected that could be used in nurseries in the short term.
Among the systems being tested is the HortiMaX Vitalite H202, which uses low pressure ultraviolet light to activate hydrogen peroxide, breaking down the pesticides in the water.
The study follows new targets set by the Dutch government and horticultural industry to reduce nitrogen and phosphate levels in discharge water.
The results of the research project will be announced at the end of 2012 and the evaluation will take into account the cost price of the technology and the capacity and reliability of the purification system.
