The Zunderts Groen Imago Prijs has become a well-known distinction at GrootGroenPlus. This year, the award was presented to ROOTZ, the knowledge and innovation centre for the tree nursery industry. At their stand, they demonstrated that they are truly ‘On the Right Track’ when it comes to sustainability. Ralph Bogers, Alderman for Economic Affairs, presented the award on the first day of the trade fair.

“It is remarkable that we have such a knowledge and innovation centre within our municipality,” Alderman Bogers began. “The centre not only attracts companies and students from Zundert, but also regional and international partners. This strengthens Zundert’s position as a green municipality.”

Cooperation as the key to innovation 

The professional jury selected ROOTZ as the winner, because the centre contributes to the renewal of the industry by bridging research and practical application. Within ROOTZ, tree nurseries, businesses and educational institutions from Zundert, the wider region and across the Netherlands collaborate on new technologies and business models.

Alderman Bogers highlighted the importance of ROOTZ: “A strong sense of community is one of our municipality’s key strengths. ROOTZ symbolises green ambition: it demonstrates that collaboration is the key to innovation. In this way, we continue to build a future-proof and sustainable industry.”

Quality certificate, nest box, and visit of mayor and aldermen

This was the twelfth edition of the Zundert Green Image Award. As the winner, ROOTZ received a quality certificate, will be able to choose a nest box in collaboration with the Bird Rehabilitation Centre, and will be visited by the mayor and aldermen from Zundert.

About GrootGroenPlus

From 1 to 3 October, the 35th edition of the international nursery stock trade fair GrootGroenPlus took place at Business Centre Treeport. Nearly 300 participants from both the Netherlands and abroad, including growers, traders, manufacturers and suppliers, showcased the latest developments in the industry.