Agrospecials Editie 9 - Juni 2023

Exploring nature-inclusive farming

Welcome to the world of nature-inclusive farming! In this new edition of our e-magazine Agrospecial, the teams of our Netherlands Agricultural Network showcase nature-inclusive practices and initiatives in 36 countries worldwide.

Nature-inclusiveness is the future

Transforming farming to a greener future. Securing farmers, food production, and climate goals through a paradigm shift in farming methods.

Nature-inclusive farming: back to basics

Flip van Koesveld promotes nature-inclusive agriculture for biodiversity, sustainability, and long-term benefits.

Organic farmer: a director of natural processes

Peter Oosterhof: Dutch dairy farmer in Foxwolde, letting nature work for sustainable and profitable farming.

Belgium pushes for a nature-inclusive earnings model

Belgium's journey towards nature-inclusive agriculture has showcased promising achievements, with Wallonia and Flanders implementing distinct models. 

Nature checks enhance biodiversity on farms in Denmark

Denmark's efforts to enhance biodiversity on farms through nature checks and tailored advice are generating positive outcomes.

France's transition to agroecology

France leads in nature-inclusive agriculture with agroecology vision and initiatives like the Paysans de Nature Foundation.

Bavaria commits to Program for Contractual Nature Protection

Discover the diverse initiatives and programs in Bavaria, Germany, aimed at protecting nature and preserving biodiversity. 

Germany is promoting peatland restoration as part of national climate strategy

Germany is strategically promoting peatland restoration as an integral part of its national climate strategy, harnessing the environmental benefits of these ecosystems to combat climate change effectively.

In Hungary nature conservation goes hand in hand with sustainable farming

Hungary's national parks, like Kiskunság, combine nature preservation with sustainable agriculture, as farmers collaborate with the parks to balance environmental conservation and food production. These farmers, considered landscape preservationists, rely on public support and special labels to sell their environmentally friendly products at premium prices.

Farmers lead nature-inclusive approach in Ireland

Driving change together: farmers, communities, and government collaborate for nature-inclusive agriculture in Ireland.

Italy at the forefront of nature-inclusive revolution

Italy's dedication to sustainable farming showcases the transformative power of preserving biodiversity and implementing nature-inclusive practices in food production.

In Norway it is wind power versus reindeer grazing

The delicate balance between nature and the needs of reindeer herds in Norway is under threat as climate change and the energy transition, exemplified by wind power projects, create challenges for the traditional Sámi way of life and sustainable reindeer husbandry.

The European Green Deal is guiding the EU towards a nature-inclusive future

Promoting nature-inclusive agriculture: EU's sustainable food systems Initiatives for biodiversity and resource protection.

The rise of regenerative farming in Romania

In Romania, the convergence of agriculture and nature is gradually taking shape, as the country embraces regenerative farming practices and seeks to strike a harmonious balance between food production, environmental sustainability, and biodiversity preservation.

Agroecology is a sustainable solution for Spain's agricultural sector

Agroecology, a sustainable solution for Spain's agricultural sector, offers opportunities for enhancing soil health, ecosystem services, and agricultural productivity.

Türkiye’s progress in sustainable agriculture

Türkiye's recent economic growth and agricultural sector development have placed considerable pressure on nature, making sustainable agriculture and organic farming practices increasingly crucial.

The UK’s groundswell of regenerative agriculture

Transforming English farming: from EU subsidies to sustainable practices. Farmers' role crucial in climate action & biodiversity.

Exploring Brazil's cabruca agroforestry

Uncover the cabruca agroforestry system in Brazil, a nature-inclusive farming approach that combines cocoa trees with native or exotic tree species. This innovative practice enhances resistance to phytosanitary outbreaks and promotes resilience to climate change.

Canada wants a resilient and equitable food system for future generations

Canada aims to establish a resilient and equitable food system for future generations by integrating indigenous agriculture with innovative nature-inclusive practices.

Chile is looking for balance between nature and productive sectors

Chile's dedication to nature-inclusive agriculture, exemplified by individuals like Tomás Rivas Fuenzalida, winner of the Dutch Food for Nature Award, is transforming the country's dairy sector.

Cultivando un México Mejor: 100% sustainable barley supply

Brewing history meets sustainable future: Heineken Mexico's water-wise initiatives for a better tomorrow.

Ecosystem services and carbon credits support small-scale farmers in Peru

Acorn, an initiative by Rabobank, promotes agroforestry to address climate change and support small-scale producers in emerging regions by generating carbon credits and fostering ecosystem services.

US private and public parties choose nature over profit

US are embracing nature-based solutions to combat climate change and improve the living conditions of marginalized communities.

Leapfrogging towards agroecological horticulture in Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal

Smallholder farmers seek agroecological advancements to enhance resilience and food sovereignty.

Revitalizing landscapes and ecosystems in Ethiopia’s Central Rift Valley

 The Basin in Balance program in Ethiopia's Central Rift Valley focuses on revitalizing landscapes and ecosystems by addressing the decline in water quantity and quality. It employs an integrated approach to improve water efficiency, restore soil fertility, and promote sustainable farming practices. 

Fostering resilient agricultural systems and environmental stewardship in Ghana

In Ghana, nature-inclusive farming has the potential to transform into a major force for sustainable agriculture and food security if the government aids farmers in adapting their systems, strengthens national capacities, and establishes safety nets for smallholders.

Mlango Farm in Kenya paves the way for new generations of farmers

Mlango Farm in Kenya, founded by Els Breet and Kamande Njenga, is a sustainable farming model that integrates organic practices, biodiversity, and community inclusivity, empowering a new generation of nature-inclusive farmers.

Nigeria opts for a greener future

Nature-inclusive agriculture in Nigeria has the potential to revolutionize farming practices, but challenges like the absence of sustainable business models and low public awareness hinder its progress.

Lessons from South Africa: 20+ years of nature-inclusive farming

South African farmers  have embraced nature-inclusive and organic farming methods, providing insights into the benefits and approaches of sustainable agriculture.

In Uganda and Rwanda, nature-inclusiveness is all about educating the young

In Uganda and Rwanda, nature-inclusive agriculture initiatives aim to educate and empower young farmers , who strive to create a sustainable and profitable future through organic farming practices, despite challenges such as limited resources and low consumer awareness.

Natural farming in India

India's diverse ecosystems and government's focus on natural farming, in collaboration with Dutch organizations, promote eco-friendly agriculture and sustainable livelihoods.

Agroforestry in Indonesia contributes to making lives better

Agroforestry programs like Working Landscape and TRACTIONS, supported by the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), have empowered Indonesian small-scale farmers to improve their livelihoods while playing a vital role in carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation.

Harmony between nature and agriculture: Japan is on its way

Japan's green farming journey: nature integration, community rejuvenation, and challenges with an aging rural population.

South Korea’s Eco-friendly Agriculture Promotion Act

South Korea's move towards sustainable agriculture, driven by consumer awareness and the Eco-friendly Agriculture Promotion Act, faces challenges but offers cooperation opportunities with the Netherlands.

Traditional and indigenous farming practices show Sri Lanka the way to sustainable food production

The shift towards nature-inclusive agriculture in Sri Lanka presents a promising path forward for sustainable food production, environmental conservation, and the well-being of local communities. 

Ant farming in Thailand: back to the future or smart use of the past?

Thailand combines traditional wisdom and innovation to transition from wild harvesting to ant farming, promoting year-round supply of ant eggs and reducing pesticide use in tropical fruit plantations.

Iran steadily scales up nature-inclusive agriculture

Iran is making progress in nature-inclusive agriculture, with increasing private sector initiatives and opportunities for collaboration with Dutch companies in areas such as agricultural technologies, water management, and marketing

Iraq invests in integrated pest control, regeneration of wetlands and reforestation

In the ancient land of Mesopotamia, known as Iraq, agriculture flourished in harmony with nature, providing abundant crops

Arid Saudi Arabia wants to improve self-sufficiency levels

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing nature-inclusive agriculture to reduce its dependence on food imports, promote sustainability, and preserve its limited natural resources by implementing practices like crop rotation and natural fertilizers to restore soil health and biodiversity.

Colofon