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App for water and nutrient cycle in Greenhouse Horticulture
The Water streams model (WSM) is an online app designed for calculating the water usage from various sources, the accumulation of harmful substances, and the discharge of nitrogen and phosphates for specific substrate cultivation. The app uses a detailed simulation model to determine discharge, effects of water purification and how to comply with current and future emission regulations. The app provides insights into the impact of different water sources, the reuse of filter backwash water, and the expansion of storage tanks. It also takes into account crop type dependencies, the availability of rainwater (dry or wet years), and the effects on nitrogen and phosphate discharge.
The app is available for growers, suppliers, and for green education. It aligns with developments and regulations related to groundwater use, discharge, and reverse osmosis (RO) brine management. The project was funded by the 'Kennis op Maat' program and the Foundation for Applied Water Research (STOWA) and connects to the ongoing Circular Horticulture Greenport West-Holland project. This initiative brings together governments, businesses, educational institutions, and research organizations to promote a sustainable future by reducing water consumption, increasing reuse, and improving water storage, topics that the app helps visualize.
