Dutch startups will develop a peat-free substrate

Dutch startups are taking significant steps toward sustainable development by addressing the pressing issue of peat shortages. Nettle TOC and Compozen B.V. are two innovative companies at the forefront of this movement, working on projects that aim to create peat-free substrates for horticulture and agriculture in the Netherlands. This initiative is particularly timely, as from 2026 onwards, peat extraction will be significantly reduced due to its detrimental environmental impact - namely, the destruction of vital wetlands and high CO2 emissions.

By focusing on alternative solutions, Nettle TOC and Compozen B.V. are not only helping to mitigate these environmental problems but also ensuring that growers have access to sustainable growing media in the future. Their work highlights a broader shift within Dutch industry towards eco-friendly practices and demonstrates how startups can play a crucial role in driving innovation for a greener tomorrow. As we approach 2026-2027, these efforts will become increasingly important in supporting both local ecosystems and global climate goals.

Nettle TOC has been developing natural nettle biofibers as a replacement for fossil raw materials for over five years. The company is known for its innovative nettle fiber processing technology, which improves the bonding of biofibers with polymers. The composite 3D filament has already proven itself among manufacturers of lamps, electric bicycles, children's toys, designers and technological makers.

Compozen B.V. is an innovative start-up founded in 2024 and based in The Hague. The company specializes in converting waste into valuable products to reduce environmental impact. Compozen B.V. is primarily engaged in the collection of used vegetable oil and coffee grounds, which are then processed into valuable products. Used vegetable oil is converted into biodiesel and biogas. Coffee grounds are used for various purposes, such as low-carbon biofuel, soap additives and plant fertilizers.

Substrates are an indispensable medium for growing safe food and a healthy green environment. The transition that the substrate industry is working on is complex and time-consuming. At present, the availability and quality of the necessary raw materials is a serious problem in both the short and long term.

Vereniging Potgrond- en Substraatfabrikanten Nederland (VPN) calls on policymakers in the Netherlands and the EU to take the following actions:

1. Recognize the substrate industry and its products as being of national interest and, in doing so, recognize strategically important raw materials for substrates as an important policy issue and ensure their availability.

2. Develop a coordinated strategic program to ensure the availability of raw materials (in terms of volume and quality) for substrates. Translate this strategic program into policy and regulations at national and European level.

3. Simplify the regulatory framework for peat extraction and use, as well as producing local renewable raw materials.

4. Create a level playing field for the use of raw materials and the production of substrates in Europe.

In this way, Dutch start-ups Nettle TOC and Compozen B.V. are becoming pioneers in solving the global problem of the transition period in the renewable eco-friendly substrates industry.

The development of the nettle-coffee substrate was made possible with the support of the MIT R&D program. The subsidy was provided by the Province of Noord-Brabant and Stimulus.

The subsidy application was prepared by the Ignite group team.