AgriNature

Abstract

The Netherlands holds the title of the world’s second-largest exporter of agricultural goods, primarily due to Wageningen University’s pioneering research and innovation. However, this success has led to significant challenges. Intensive farming practices have strained resources and disrupted local water and soil cycles, sparking protests from frustrated farmers. Moreover, the quality of fresh water in the Dutch Delta has deteriorated due to pollutants like NO2 and PO4, exacerbated by increasing salinization pressure from the North Sea. This linear system has resulted in waste accumulation and biodiversity loss, endangering both agriculture and natural ecosystems’ sustainability.

To address these challenges, our goal is to integrate nature into existing agricultural practices, thus restoring a balance with local ecosystems. The AgriNature project aims to achieve this by analysing the interplay between agriculture and nature, assessing water and soil management spatially, and fostering a participatory approach with farmers.

The first phase of this transition starts with engaging farmers who are already implementing sustainable methods like agroforestry and saline agriculture, the project establishes Living Labs for co-creation, knowledge sharing, and policy influence. Waterboards and governmental agencies will mediate and provide support, connecting farmers to stakeholders and creating financial incentives. The project also recognizes the necessity of a protein transition towards more plant-based or lab-grown alternatives, aiming to decrease nitrogen pollution and eventually rewild cattle. In the second phase, AgriNature plans to expand innovations to other farmers and establish Agroparks as hubs for innovation and technology. Consumer awareness centres will promote understanding of the protein transition and the need for biodiversity. A nature regeneration centre will oversee rewilding efforts and flood risk management using nature-based solutions. The third phase will future proof these efforts by continuing innovations within the established research and development networks.

Ultimately, AgriNature envisions a symbiotic relationship between agriculture and nature, empowering farmers as stewards of the land and promoting ecologically sensitive practices. Through multidisciplinary collaboration and integration of natural cycles into urban planning and agriculture, the project aims to serve as a global model for sustainability, fostering soil health, water conservation, and biodiversity preservation.