EcoHum – Development of Innovative Growing Media for Horticulture in NRW Based on Renewable Resources and Recycled Materials
Project Partners: HGoTECH GmbH (Coordination), CKA, bioIP
Funding Program: EFRE 2014–2020, Recovery Assistance via REACT-EU
Project Duration: 01.01.2022 – 31.12.2022
Funded by: European Union and the State of North Rhine-Westphalia
Project Overview
The EcoHum project aims to develop sustainable, peat-reduced substrates for horticulture by utilizing renewable resources and selected recycled materials with a low carbon footprint.
Together with our partners, we apply a comprehensive research approach including material analysis, plant trials, and practical testing to evaluate and optimize substrate performance. Focus areas include nutrient dynamics (especially nitrogen and phosphorus), structural stability, and adaptability to various crops and cultivation systems such as soft fruits, vegetables, and ornamentals.
EcoHum actively contributes to the ecological transformation of horticulture in North Rhine-Westphalia and promotes the cascading use of biogenic materials.
HGoTECH’s Role in EcoHum
- Coordination and scientific oversight
- Development of substrate blends tailored to specific horticultural applications
- Analysis of nutrient availability and long-term substrate performance
- Transfer of scientific findings into practical recommendations
- Contribution to outreach, knowledge transfer, and stakeholder engagement
A long-term goal is to establish a regional center of excellence for growing media innovation.
This project is supported by the European Union through REACT-EU.
More information about the EFRE/REACT-EU program in NRW: www.efre.nrw