As global concerns about sustainability grow, innovative solutions are becoming increasingly important in agriculture, particularly vertical farming, which has become a significant role player for its potential to optimize food production in urban areas. Vegger, a European-based company, develops sustainable products that make vertical farming more efficient and eco-friendly. Paulien van de Vlasakker, CEO of Vegger, emphasizes: "We've been told many times, 'It would be easier if you just used plastic,' but we believe the future of farming must prioritize the planet. That means creating solutions that respect and restore the environment, not just take from it."
Vegger combines advanced technology with environmentally conscious materials to create products like biodegradable PlantPods and customizable indoor growing systems. These products are designed to help businesses, restaurants, hotels, and other communal areas transform into thriving green spaces, providing fresh food while minimizing environmental impact.
Vegger Flaxfarms
A sustainable approach with biodegradable PlantPods
"When most people think of vertical farming, images of plastic pots and packaging often come to mind. We are changing that perception with our biodegradable PlantPods, which offer a sustainable alternative to traditional growing containers," Paulien explains. These all-in-one solutions are designed for indoor growing, allowing individuals and businesses to grow fresh vegetables and herbs without relying on plastics.
"What makes these PlantPods unique is their use of agricultural byproducts, such as coco fiber and walnut shells. These materials provide a nutrient-rich base for plant growth, while also helping to reduce agricultural waste. Instead of relying on petroleum-based plastic, the PlantPods are fully biodegradable and compostable, reducing the overall environmental footprint of indoor farming systems," she adds.
Each PlantPod is paired with organic seeds sourced from the Netherlands. "Additionally, the PlantPods are sealed with a sugarcane-based label," Paulien says.
Vegger Hotel Haarhuis
Healthy indoor environments
Paulien emphasizes that vertical farming in urban settings presents a unique opportunity to bring nature back into spaces often lacking in greenery, such as offices, restaurants, and hotels. "Vegger's systems, designed with energy efficiency in mind, allow businesses to integrate vertical farms into their interior designs, promoting better air quality and enhancing the overall well-being of occupants," she states.
Photo right: Vegger PlantPods
As Paulien puts it, "Our systems don't just grow food – they grow better environments. We're helping businesses and communities create spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional, providing fresh food and improved air quality for everyone who interacts with them."
Vegger's products include two models of vertical farming systems: the FlaxFarm 35 and FlaxFarm 60. Whether in a commercial office, a hotel lobby, or a restaurant, these compact, space-efficient systems allow businesses to grow fresh produce in their own premises without needing extensive space or resources.
"Both models are equipped with energy-efficient LED grow lights and an automated hydroponic system that ensures optimal plant growth with minimal intervention," Paulien elaborates. The hydroponic system, which uses water rather than soil, allows plants to grow faster and healthier while using less water than traditional farming methods. "In addition, the systems are designed to be low-maintenance, so users can focus on enjoying the benefits of their vertical farm rather than worrying about upkeep."
Tech-integrated and user-friendly
Paulien explains that the FlaxFarm models come with the VeggerConnect app, "which enables users to monitor water levels, track plant progress, and even reorder PlantPods as needed. This app makes the system easy to manage, even for those without extensive growing experience," she notes.
In addition, Vegger's vertical farming systems are equipped with engineered airflow and ventilator fans that ensure optimal air circulation. "Our fans, along with the energy-efficient grow lights, consume minimal energy," Paulien says.
Educating the public
Vegger wants to inspire others to embrace greener practices. One example of how Vegger plans to achieve this is through the opening of an Experience Center in Sweden, which will serve as a showcase for its innovative products and provide an educational platform for businesses and individuals interested in sustainable practices.
Photo right: Vegger Stainless Steel
At the Experience Center, visitors will have the opportunity to see firsthand how Vegger's vertical farms and biodegradable PlantPods work in real-life settings. The center will offer workshops, demonstrations, and resources to help people understand how they can integrate green spaces into their own communal areas or workplaces.
"As we continue to innovate, we want to inspire others to make greener choices in their own lives," Paulien says. "We believe that thoughtful design and sustainable practices can have a transformative impact on our indoor environments, helping us live in harmony with nature even in urban spaces."
For more information:
Vegger Vertical Farms
Paulien van de Vlasakker, Managing Director
[email protected]
www.vegger.org