Dutch Government to Boost Agricultural Sustainability with New Innovation Policy
The Hague, Tuesday, 16 September 2025.
The Dutch government plans to introduce an innovation policy to transform agriculture by 2035, focusing on sustainability and economic viability, supported by a €2.6 billion investment.
Innovation Policy Aims for Sustainable Transformation
The Dutch government is poised to introduce a transformative innovation policy targeting the agricultural sector, with the ambitious goal of achieving sustainability and economic viability by 2035. This policy is part of the government’s broader strategy outlined in the Miljoenennota, which outlines a €2.6 billion investment to facilitate a transition to sustainable farming practices. The investment will focus on reducing emissions, improving water quality, and cutting greenhouse gases, setting achievable standards for individual farms [1].
Addressing Economic and Environmental Challenges
Experts highlight the importance of this policy in addressing the dual challenges of climate change and food security. By fostering an environment conducive to innovation, the plan seeks to equip the Netherlands with the necessary tools for a resilient agricultural future. This initiative also aligns with the EU’s broader objectives, which call for significant investment in innovation funding to maintain competitiveness and drive growth in the agricultural sector [2].
Support for Farmers and Industry Stakeholders
The policy includes measures to support farmers transitioning to sustainable practices, addressing concerns raised by agricultural organizations like LTO Noord. The removal of tax reductions on ‘red diesel’ fuel has been met with disappointment, underlining the necessity for compensatory measures to maintain the sector’s competitive edge [1]. Stakeholders also emphasize the need for consistent policy support, particularly for farmers already adopting sustainable practices [1].
Collaboration and Future Prospects
Collaboration with scientific institutions, such as Wageningen University & Research, is a key component of the Dutch government’s strategy. These partnerships aim to drive research and development in sustainable agricultural practices. The policy’s success will rely heavily on ongoing cooperation between the government, academic institutions, and the agricultural community, ensuring that the Netherlands remains at the forefront of agricultural innovation [3].