Sustainability

At Tomeco, growers are constantly working to improve their cultivation techniques and ensure the efficient use of water, energy, and materials.

From rock wool mats to organic substrate in reusable growing containers

At Tomeco, we use organic substrate in reusable growing containers as an alternative to rock wool. The substrate consists of a mix of rice husks, coconut coir, bark, peat, and wood bark, among other ingredients.

Once the growing cycle is complete, the used substrate is picked up by external processors for further processing. The growing containers can be reused for the next growing cycle.

Floating solar panels: water storage and energy generation on the same surface area

Water basins cover a significant area and play an important role in supplying water to our crops. Floating solar panels have therefore been installed on several basins. This allows the same area to be used for both water storage and electricity generation.

The floating structure supporting the panels is made from recycled fruit crates. The solar panels generate electricity that is used within the local energy supply.

Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing

Omeco brings together Belgian tomato growers, each with their own family-run business and growing locations. Every greenhouse and every growing system is different. By sharing knowledge and experiences regarding growing techniques, energy, water use, and crop protection, the growers can learn from one another and evaluate new applications.

In addition, Tomeco and its growers work closely with Coöperatie Hoogstraten. This collaboration brings cultivation, packaging, marketing, and distribution together under one roof.

Energy and_CO2 for Growth

Tomato plants absorb CO₂ during photosynthesis and use carbon for their growth. That is why CO₂ is added to the greenhouse in a controlled manner.

Depending on the cultivation location, this CO₂ can come from purified industrial waste streams or from combined heat and power (CHP) systems. A CHP system simultaneously produces electricity and heat. The heat generated is used to heat the greenhouse, and suitable CO₂ from the flue gases can be utilized in crop production after treatment.

At certain locations, the heat generated is also supplied to neighboring businesses.

Automaatje, our automated transport to Coöperatie Hoogstraten

Tomeco Services ’s packaging center is located on the site of Coöperatie Hoogstraten, close to the central distribution hub from which products are shipped to customers.

For internal transport between the two locations, we use the Automaatje: an automated transport system that loads and unloads itself. Using transponders, it autonomously finds its way to the buffer conveyor at Coöperatie Hoogstraten. This allows the packaged product to be transported automatically between the packaging center and the distribution hub.

Electric Heat Generation with the E-boiler

An E-boiler converts electricity directly into heat for the greenhouse. No combustion takes place inside the boiler itself.

The system thus offers an electric option for heat generation alongside systems that use fuels. When and how the E-boiler is used depends, among other things, on the available electricity and the greenhouse’s heat demand.

A bumblebee flies to the blossom of a tomato plant

Integrated Pest Management

We use integrated pest management in our cultivation practices. This involves combining various techniques to control diseases and pests and keep the crop healthy.

For example, growers use beneficial insects and physical control methods, among other things. The condition of the crop is monitored, and additional crop protection measures can be taken as needed.

Targeted Irrigation at Tomélon

Tomélons are grown in greenhouses using controlled irrigation. The amount and timing of watering can be adjusted to meet the crop’s needs.

This allows growers to control irrigation throughout the various stages of cultivation, from young plant to ripe mini-watermelon.

Tomélon