The Dutch manure industry is changing. Johan Mostert, chairman of Cumela’s manure distribution section, warns of a future shortage as livestock numbers decline, which could increase reliance on imports and synthetic fertilizers. He stresses the importance of clear regulations, sustainable practices, and maintaining strong export routes to meet growing international demand.
What is Cumela’s role in the industry?
‘Cumela is a Dutch industry representative for companies in the green, ground, and infrastructure sectors. We have around 2,000 members, from small independent contractors to large companies, employing about 35,000 people in total. The organization is divided into sections, including manure distribution, civil earthworks, and agricultural contracting.’
‘We assist our members through advocacy, information, and training, helping them navigate regulatory changes, market developments, and environmental requirements. By connecting the industry with policymakers and other stakeholders, we play an important role in keeping the sector strong and resilient.’
With so many changes happening, how is Cumela responding?
‘There’s a lot happening in our field right now, especially with the gradual phase-out of derogation, which will end by 2026. Cumela’s role is to bring supply and demand together—a task we’ve been doing for over 40 years. We ensure that manure reaches the right place with the right quality, whether for arable farmers needing tailored nutrient mixes or for processing plants.’
‘There is more manure than farmers and businesses need but calling it a "surplus" doesn’t fully explain the problem. The point is that supply (the amount of manure available) is greater than demand (the amount people need). Because of this, getting rid of manure has become more expensive. To solve this, people have started transporting manure much farther than before. In the past, they would only move it about 400 kilometers. But now, because of rising costs, they can send it up to 800 kilometers—or even farther if it's high-quality fertilizer. Countries like France, Germany, and Poland are asking for more manure, which helps solve the issue.’
What kind of assistance does Cumela provide to its members?
‘We help in several ways. First, we ensure our members have access to up-to-date regulatory information, so they understand what’s required to operate both domestically and in export markets. Many companies struggle with scattered and outdated compliance details, so we work to centralize and simplify this information, making adaptation easier.’
‘Additionally, we aid members with practical matters such as obtaining permits for manure processing installations and identifying new market opportunities. Through lobbying efforts, we advocate for regulations that are realistic and workable for the industry, such as allowing more flexibility in the use of RENURE fertilizers.’
Sustainability is a major focus in agriculture. What steps is Cumela taking?
‘Sustainability is at the core of our work. By ensuring manure is placed where it’s needed, we reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers, which benefits both soil health and the environment. We’re involved in initiatives like Bemest op z’n Best (translation: Manured at its Best), an innovation program that aims to cut ammonia emissions during manure application.’
‘However, not all regulations support sustainability. Take dairy farms, for example, they must export manure while simultaneously importing synthetic fertilizers. That’s a contradiction. We already have a natural nutrient cycle in place, and the rules should reinforce it, not work against it.’
How does Cumela collaborate with policymakers and industry groups?
‘We regularly engage with government bodies and organizations. We maintain ongoing discussions with agencies such as the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) and officials from the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature.
‘We also work closely with industry groups like the Netherlands Agricultural and Horticultural Association (LTO), Dutch Pig Farmers’ Organization (POV), and the Dutch Dairy Farmers' Union (NMV).
Our cooperation with the Netherlands Agricultural Network (LAN) has grown stronger, particularly as export becomes increasingly important. This collaboration focuses on informing companies about foreign markets, supporting trade opportunities, and organizing trade missions to countries like Germany and Poland.’
What are the biggest challenges ahead for the manure market?
‘One major concern is the potential for a manure shortage in the coming years. With livestock numbers declining, particularly in the dairy sector, manure availability will decrease. I estimate that within a few years, about 30% of the current market could disappear. While the focus now is on avoiding a short-term surplus, we may soon find ourselves struggling to meet demand. That could force us to import manure e or rely more on synthetic fertilizers.’
‘One major concern is the potential for a manure shortage in the coming years’
The Dutch organic fertilizer market seems more complex than media coverage suggests. What’s missing from the conversation about manure?
‘Media coverage often emphasizes the idea of a surplus, but the reality is more nuanced. Farmers need both processed and raw manure. While processed manure provides valuable minerals, it lacks the organic matter essential for soil health. If we export too much of the solid fraction, we lose those organic nutrients at home. That’s something many people, including policymakers, don’t fully appreciate.’
What key message do you want to leave with stakeholders?
‘Dutch agriculture is among the most efficient and responsible in the world. Our animal welfare standards are high, and our manure is a valuable resource that supports sustainable farming. We need to protect that – not just for today’s farmers but for the future of the entire agricultural industry.’
