NIOO-KNAW is one of six winners of a Dutch subsidy for research projects that promote technological innovation. The subsidies are granted by the technology foundation STW, which is linked to the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research, together with partners from the private sector.

'Perspective' is an annual competition that encourages scientists and private sector parties to work together in areas in which the Netherlands aims to excel globally. In order to be selected, research projects must focus on developing innovative technologies that can be applied in one of these government-promoted 'top sectors'.

More than forty proposals were submitted for this year's competition. The six winners will each receive a subsidy of up to four million euros. Two thirds of that money comes from the STW, the remainder has been contributed by around eighty Dutch companies, including Philips and DSM.

'Back to the Roots'

The winning NIOO-project is called 'Back to the Roots'. Project leader is Jos Raaijmakers, head of the department of Microbial Ecology. The project focuses on identifying micro-organisms that can promote plant growth without any need for more pesticides or fertilizers. Such beneficial micro-organisms appear to have been widespread before the current era of large-scale agriculture began.

Once these 'old friends' have been identified and reinstated, they may be used to increase agricultural production in a sustainable and non-destructive way. Other winning Perspective-projects are a LED-lighting scheme that may reduce energy use in the horticultural section by as much as 50 per cent (Wageningen UR), and a 'smart' energy system for buildings that is both cheaper and more flexible than more traditional alternatives (Eindhoven University of Technology).

More information about the competition and its winners can be found on the STW-website (in Dutch).