Dutch Ministry Advocates for Sustainable Agriculture to Tackle Climate Challenges
The Hague, Friday, 5 December 2025.
The Dutch Ministry of Agriculture focuses on sustainable food production and biodiversity, crucial for addressing climate change and pollution, as part of the upcoming 2028 agricultural policy reforms.
Innovative Approaches to Sustainable Agriculture
The Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Nature, and Food Quality is spearheading sustainable agriculture initiatives vital for the upcoming Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reforms in 2028. Central to these efforts is the promotion of biodiversity and sustainable food production to mitigate climate change and pollution effects. Recently, Minister Wiersma launched the National Innovation Desk for the Livestock Sector, which supports entrepreneurs in innovating and experimenting with emission reduction techniques [1].
Engaging Farmers in the Transition
Farmers are encouraged to adopt regenerative farming practices such as cover cropping and agroforestry, supported by subsidies aimed at facilitating this transition [3]. The government has set ambitious targets, including converting 25% of agricultural land to organic production by 2030 and restoring 20,000 hectares of natural habitats on farmland by 2027 [2]. These measures are backed by the Investeringsfonds Duurzame Landbouw (IDL), which provides financial support to farmers transitioning to organic and sustainable farming [3].
Community-Driven Initiatives
Grassroots efforts such as the Herenboeren cooperative farms are pivotal in promoting local and organic food production. These cooperatives, spread across the Netherlands, emphasize community involvement and environmental sustainability, aligning with the Ministry’s objectives [4]. The cooperative model allows members to invest in and partake in the farm’s produce, fostering a strong community connection to sustainable agriculture [5].
Public Engagement and Future Plans
The Ministry is actively seeking public input on the design of the CAP, inviting citizens to share their priorities for sustainable agriculture until December 14, 2025 [1]. This engagement is crucial for developing effective policies that reflect public interest and ensure the efficient use of funds. As part of the broader EU framework, these reforms aim to position the Netherlands as a leader in sustainable agriculture, balancing the needs of food security with environmental conservation [2].