Noord-Holland Commits €21 Million to Sustainable Farming
Amsterdam, Thursday, 6 November 2025.
Noord-Holland allocates €21 million to the Agrarisch Natuur- en Landschapsbeheer program, promoting eco-friendly farming to boost biodiversity and fight climate change from 2026-2028.
Funding Details and Purpose
The province of Noord-Holland has committed €21 million to the Agrarisch Natuur- en Landschapsbeheer (ANLb) subsidy program, dramatically increasing from the €5 million allocated for a similar period last year. This significant boost in funding is intended to support eco-friendly farming practices from 2026 to 2028, aiming to enhance biodiversity and mitigate climate change effects [1][2].
Objectives of the ANLb Program
The ANLb program, funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Nature, focuses on promoting sustainable agricultural practices. These practices include maintaining natural and cultural landscapes, such as nature-friendly banks, pollard willows, and hedgerows. Farmers are encouraged to implement measures that aid farmland birds, such as delayed mowing and leaving certain land areas undisturbed to provide feeding and breeding grounds [1][2].
Broader Impact and Future Plans
The funding aligns with Noord-Holland’s Natuurbeheerplan 2026, established by the Provincial Executive in September 2025. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to support natural farming landscapes, which are vital habitats for a wide range of species, including amphibians, insects, and birds. By investing in these landscapes, the province aims to foster a healthier and more resilient ecosystem [1][2].
Comparative Funding in Other Regions
In a similar vein, other Dutch provinces are also increasing investments in sustainable agriculture. For instance, Gelderland has benefited from European funding, supporting 1,237 projects with €1.86 billion, demonstrating a strong commitment to innovation and environmental sustainability [3]. Meanwhile, Overijssel has allocated €11.5 million for sustainable agricultural practices, underscoring a nationwide trend towards eco-friendly farming solutions [6].