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Title Dutch initiatives working on regenerative agriculture and their international ambitions: An overview of current efforts regarding regenerative agriculture in the Netherlands
Full text https://research.wur.nl/en/publications/dutch-initiatives-working-on-regenerative-agriculture-and-their-i
Date 2024
Author(s) Schreefel, Loekie; van Zanten, Hannah
Abstract The global food system significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, terrestrial acidification, and eutrophication, which adversely impact global food security. Agriculture, at the heart of this system, is a major source of environmental pollution through the use of pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals.Regenerative agriculture has emerged as a response to these challenges, emphasizing soil conservation and ecosystem services for sustainable food production. The Netherlands has been a key player in promoting regenerative agriculture, leveraging its innovative agricultural history. However, the extent ofits adoption by Dutch stakeholders remains unclear. This study investigates the network of actors involved in regenerative agriculture in the Netherlands, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of current initiatives and their (inter)national ambitions.Regenerative agriculture, although lacking a formalized definition, focuses on restoring ecological functions beyond mere sustainability. It involves practices like prioritizing soil health, reintegrating livestock,minimizing tillage, and enhancing carbon sequestration. Despite varying interpretations, the core principles remain centered on soil health and ecosystem services, supporting environmental, social, and economic sustainability. However, these principles are not universally applicable across all farming systems and contexts, requiring tailored approaches. To showcase these tailored approaches this study mapped Dutch regenerative initiatives. By reviewing stakeholder websites using advanced search options in Google and LinkedIn. The initial search yielded over 800 initiatives, narrowed down to 199 after removing duplicates and non-relevant items. These initiatives were analyzed based on location, type, size, orientation, themes,and practices. The majority of initiatives were located in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Wageningen, with farmers (e.g. Krulstaartje, Bodemzicht), processing companies (e.g. McCain, Cargill), and advisory enterprises (e.g. KAIROS, Met Natuur Mee) being the primary types. These initiatives predominantly focused on environmental themes like soil health and biodiversity, with varied practices such as using cover crops and crop diversity.Interviews with nine selected initiatives revealed their involvement in international knowledge sharing and local network building. Many initiatives collaborated internationally, especially in Europe and North America, and showed interest in emerging markets in Africa, Asia, and South America. However, significant barriers to international collaboration included financial challenges, finding reliable local partners, and bureaucratic hurdles. Initiatives requested government support in obtaining grants, subsidies, and improved financial incentivization schemes. They also emphasized the need for government-facilitated connections between food system actors and proactive engagement.The Netherlands has made significant progress in promoting and adapting to regenerative agriculture, but challenges remain for international expansion. Addressing financial, regulatory, and logistical barriers,along with enhanced governmental support, is crucial for maximizing the potential of regenerative agriculture both nationally and globally. This study underscores the importance of tailored approaches and proactive government involvement to support the diverse and growing network of regenerative initiatives.
Subject(s) Life Science
Language en
Publisher Wageningen University & Research
Relation https://edepot.wur.nl/662543
Type of publication External research report
Format application/pdf
Rights (c) publisher; Wageningen University & Research
Identifier 10.18174/662543
Repository Wageningen - University of Wageningen
Added to C-A: 2024-12-04;11:09:25