Sustainability is a major priority at Bunnik Plants. "The greenhouse horticulture industry as a whole needs to go in this direction. For instance, the planned 'heat roundabout' in this region will offer sustainable solutions for many growers. A boiler should only be used as a temporary solution, as is the case with us." In spite of the company already having a head start in the area of sustainability, Bunnik Plants is constantly looking for new opportunities, such as geothermal energy or the use of wood stoves. "This is something that the entire greenhouse horticulture industry needs to be doing, because there are some fantastic market opportunities for the sector in this area. With our solar collectors we can generate 1.8 megawatts, a portion of which is sold back to the grid."
To fully exploit the potential of alternative energy sources, Frans Bunnik believes it is essential to work together with a wide variety of partners. "There are initiatives in place, but implementation is often rather more difficult, partly because of the role of government. In future, we need to focus more on energy clusters, with municipal authorities and industry. Heating homes with heat from the horticulture industry is one of the possibilities. We need to work hand in hand to save the planet and respond to social developments."
Of course, the Bleiswijk company is also closely monitoring developments in the area of diffuse glass and LED lighting. "We've carried out a trial with diffuse glass and it's certainly an interesting option for new construction projects. In the broad area of energy savings, it's true that you never stop learning as a grower. This also applies to LED's. In our case, it's 15 years since we built new greenhouses. Developments have not stood still in that time, and that provides some fantastic opportunities and challenges for the future."
Bunnik Plants' energy vision is very wide-ranging. "We look at ourselves, at the world and at everything in between. Working to create a better, cleaner world has become an essential part of our business philosophy. We do our best, but we need the cooperation of all the parties in the sector. Our customers also have a role to play, because it is them who specify the requirements. In that way, our industry is a bit like sport at the highest level, because every day we strive to be top of the league."
These efforts have been recognized, as proven by their nomination for the Horticulture Entrepreneur Prize 2017. "But we ourselves are also proud of what we have achieved with a large group of employees. People in greenhouse horticulture need to reflect a little more often and enjoy what has already been achieved." Energy-efficient trucks, electric cars for the sales force, 100% biodegradable covers, pots and boxes; all these choices underscore the sustainable nature of Bunnik Plants.
Watch the video featuring Frans Bunnik talking about energy management:
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