The innovative Ultra-Clima greenhouse produced by NPM-owned KUBO leads to significantly reduced CO2 emissions in tomato cultivation. This is shown by independent research, validated in accordance with international standards. For the first time, it is demonstrated that crop cultivation in a high-tech greenhouse can be structurally more sustainable than using traditional Venlo greenhouses.
The study, conducted at a Dutch tomato grower, shows that CO₂ emissions per kilogram of tomatoes in an Ultra-Clima greenhouse are reduced by more than 25 percent relative to conventional cultivation methods. This reduction is primarily due to the efficient climate control systems, the smart use of renewable energy, and the reuse of captured CO₂. These techniques even render it possible to achieve CO₂-neutral cultivation using residual heat.
Besides a lower environmental impact, the greenhouse also offers advantages for growers. Energy consumption drops by up to 18.5 percent, and the closed design allows for more efficient use of water and crop protection. The quality of the final product also improves. Mechanical ventilation and fewer windows keep the indoor climate stable, even in extreme weather.
KUBO expects the technology to also be applicable in the cultivation of other crops, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, strawberries, and leafy greens. Further studies are planned to substantiate this. The results have been confirmed by sustainability consultancy Anthesis and are aligned with the climate ambitions of the agri-food sector and retail.