The Dutch Rewarding project has made significant progress in addressing the brine problem by utilizing existing technologies to develop innovative solutions. A pilot project is set to commence in spring 2025, where a variety of technologies will be deployed to extract irrigation water from groundwater and reuse drain water in substrate crops and soil-based crops. The project also aims to recover nutrients and find solutions for the concentrated brine streams that result from treated groundwater usage.
This three-year project, currently halfway through completion, has been a collaborative effort between Wageningen Food & Biobased Research (WFBR) and KWR. Researchers Marc Lanting from WFBR and Nienke Koeman from KWR have evaluated numerous techniques and conducted laboratory tests to identify promising treatment concepts. These concepts can be implemented in different configurations on horticultural farms, often in conjunction with existing reverse osmosis plants. The applicability of these technologies may vary depending on the crop and the initial groundwater quality in different regions.
Journalist Jan van Staalduinen recently interviewed the researchers and shared insights on the project’s progress in an article on Glastuinbouw Waterproof. The project group is currently in discussions with a company in Bommelerwaard to conduct groundwater demonstrations. The pilot project will focus on groundwater with elevated levels of iron and calcium, with plans to implement three treatment concepts starting in spring 2025. Some newer techniques for treating drainage water are still in development and not yet ready for pilot testing.
The project’s ultimate goal is to enhance water efficiency in horticulture, minimize environmental impact, and ensure sustainable water management practices. By harnessing innovative technologies and collaborating with industry partners, the Dutch Rewarding project aims to revolutionize water management in the agricultural sector.
Publication Date: Thu 23 Jan 2025
As the project progresses, stakeholders and industry professionals are encouraged to stay informed about the latest developments and outcomes. The pilot project in spring 2025 will provide valuable insights into the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed solutions for the brine problem. Through ongoing research and collaboration, the Dutch Rewarding project is paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient water management system in horticulture.
For more information and updates on the Dutch Rewarding project and its initiatives, please visit the official website and stay tuned for future announcements and publications.
