Dutch greenhouse horticulture is entering a decisive phase of transformation. Climate change, social pressures, and economic challenges are accelerating the sector’s journey towards sustainability. PJ Beers, senior researcher at DRIFT and lecturer at HAS Green Academy, outlines a future in which fossil-free, peat-free, chemical-free and socially sustainable practices will define success.
This transition, however, requires more than technical innovation. It calls for collective action across the value chain, from growers and suppliers to banks, insurers, and industry partners.
Four Core Challenges for the Sector
Beers highlights four transition themes that form the backbone of sustainable horticulture:
Fossil-free – phasing out natural gas is the top priority. The sector is actively exploring alternatives such as geothermal energy, residual heat, and electrification to end reliance on fossil fuels.
Peat-free – peat substrates are no longer viable due to CO₂ emissions and ecological impact. Sustainable alternatives, such as coconut fibre, wood fibre, and circular substrates, are essential.
Chemical-free – eliminating synthetic crop protection is crucial to safeguard biodiversity and water quality. Integrated systems, biological pest control, and precision agriculture will be the way forward.
Socially sustainable – sustainability goes beyond the environment. Fair wages, safe working conditions, and long-term employment opportunities must also be part of the transition, enabling the sector to contribute to inclusive and resilient communities.
“The urgency is widely recognised. Everyone knows: continuing as we have for decades is no longer an option.” PJ Beers, DRIFT
External Pressures: Climate and Competition
The sustainability agenda is reinforced by external risks. Climate change is already bringing more extreme weather, such as severe hailstorms, which can cause major damage to greenhouses
Meanwhile, global competitors with lower cost structures are intensifying price pressure.
“Cost leadership does not suit a highly developed economy like the Netherlands. Our strength lies in high-quality, sustainable production,” Beers stresses.
The Power of Collective Action
Sustainability cannot be achieved by individual growers alone. Beers points to the need for collective investment funds where growers, banks, and government share responsibility.
“Anyone who thinks small family businesses can make this transition alone underestimates the challenge.”
Financial institutions also play a key role. Banks and insurers must shift from penalising sustainability with higher risk premiums to actively supporting it with favourable financing and insurance conditions.
Innovation Opportunities for the Supply Industry
For suppliers, the sustainability agenda is more than a challenge – it is an invitation to innovate. Companies in materials, energy, and construction have opportunities to add value in the greenhouse of the future.
For Tata Steel, this is a strategic moment to redefine its role: not only by improving current products but by co-creating tomorrow’s solutions.
Beers identifies clear directions for innovation:
Sustainable construction materials
Support for the energy transition
Circular solutions
Materials that enable chemical-free cultivation
Concrete examples already exist. Robust, heat-resistant steels can better withstand extreme climate conditions. Materials and systems can support the shift to gas-free energy sources such as geothermal, residual heat networks, and electrified infrastructure. Steel systems designed for reuse, disassembly, and recycling can unlock circular greenhouse concepts.
Foto: PJ Beers
Innovative coatings and surfaces that reduce the need for chemical crop protection are also emerging. At the same time, Beers stresses the importance of responsible research and innovation, which includes input not only from users but also from wider stakeholders such as environmental organisations.
“The question is not only: what do we produce today? But also: where can we add value ten years from now in a sustainable greenhouse sector?” PJ Beers, DRIFT
The supply industry is therefore not a bystander but a driving force in accelerating the transition.
Vertical Farming and Internationalisation
Vertical farming is often mentioned as a solution, but Beers sees its main potential in regions with extreme climates and land scarcity, such as Dubai or New York. In the Netherlands, traditional greenhouse construction will remain dominant, though scaling and professionalisation are set to continue. Family businesses are increasingly evolving into professionally managed enterprises with investors and specialised leadership teams.
From Challenge to Opportunity: Building the Greenhouse Sector of Tomorrow
Greenhouse horticulture faces a fundamental transition. Sustainability, climate adaptation, and collaboration across the value chain will determine its future resilience.
For companies such as Tata Steel, this is a clear opportunity to create value, not only with advanced materials but also through expertise and partnerships. By working together on innovative, sustainable solutions, the industry can shape a greenhouse sector ready for the demands of tomorrow.