Inventor Aad van der Starre and his company, Freshlight, have introduced groundbreaking ionization innovations with the potential to transform the greenhouse horticulture sector. While these technologies have been widely embraced in various industries, including healthcare, their adoption within horticulture remains surprisingly limited. Van der Starre, along with sales consultants Ron Arends and Hans Smaal, is determined to change this status quo.
Recognizing the success of his ionization innovations across diverse sectors, Aad van der Starre questions why greenhouse horticulture has been slow to adopt these technologies. Numerous international news reports highlight the efficacy of Freshlight’s unique ionization solutions, yet Dutch growers appear hesitant and conservative in embracing these advancements.
Ionization, though perhaps a complex concept for the layperson, is not a new phenomenon. It occurs naturally in the environment, such as during lightning strikes or through friction that generates static electricity. In simple terms, ionization alters the electrical charge of dust particles. Its applications extend beyond air purification, which may not be readily apparent to the average person.
Some Dutch growers have already recognized the benefits of Freshlight’s ionization technology. One grower, for instance, employs this technique to ionize their water system, witnessing remarkable results. Within a week, their green basin became crystal clear, an effect akin to witnessing water “burning.” Ionization also effectively eliminates airborne contaminants like botrytis and fusarium, even though these pathogens are not visible to the naked eye. The efficacy of Freshlight’s air-purifying ionization device is evident when it emits crackling sounds in response to increased air contamination. By introducing a negative charge, the device can neutralize positively charged particles, including viruses like the tomato mosaic virus.
Aad van der Starre emphasizes the importance of independent scientific institutions extensively testing and endorsing his innovations. Freshlight’s dedication to obtaining certifications and approvals from such reputable bodies ensures the reliability and effectiveness of their products. These certifications can be readily accessed on the company’s website, offering transparency and peace of mind to potential users.
Freshlight ventured into the horticultural sector approximately five years ago. Growers faced a choice between installing a new generator or opting for Freshlight’s energy-saving LED lights. With over three decades of experience spanning various industries, Freshlight may not be a newcomer, yet its presence in greenhouse horticulture remains somewhat undiscovered by many.
Aad’s innovations are based on beta-negative, non-ferrous ionization, which stands apart from standard ionization methods by not emitting ozone. Ron and Hans, the sales consultants, argue that concerns about ozone emissions are unfounded, a point Aad vigorously supports. Freshlight’s technology is not limited to air purification; it can also be used for water purification.
The company’s initial foray into horticulture was through their full-spectrum LED lamps, incorporating integrated ionization capabilities. These lamps offer a full spectrum of daylight, facilitating the calcium-phosphorus link, which is vital for robust plant growth. Furthermore, they enhance crops with a carefully designed spectrum that includes UV-A and UV-B peaks before transitioning to a full sunlight spectrum. The spectrum concludes with a protracted red light peak, specifically in the far-red and infrared range (780-855 nanometers). This compensates for the so-called “cold light” emitted by LEDs. Freshlight’s lamps boast impressive efficiency, with up to 99.3% of energy converted into light.
Dutch nurseries and independent research entities are currently evaluating Freshlight’s ionization techniques. Freshlight offers a comprehensive range of solutions, from lamps equipped with ionization capabilities to standalone ionization modules for greenhouse use, and even methods to incorporate ionization into water systems. Growers are increasingly seeking tangible proof of effectiveness, a demand that Freshlight has consistently met with a wealth of test reports and practical results. The resounding message from Aad, Ron, and Hans is clear: embrace this innovative technology to experience cleaner air, water, and the benefits of full spectrum LED light, which will undoubtedly revolutionize greenhouse horticulture.