Ikwileerlijkezuivel.nl Supports Farmers' Transition to Sustainable Practices
Hardenberg, Wednesday, 22 October 2025.
Ikwileerlijkezuivel.nl aims to assist 1,500 farmers near Natura 2000 areas in adopting nature-inclusive practices, ensuring fair incomes and environmental conservation. This initiative highlights the importance of sustainable agriculture.
Ambitious Initiative for Sustainable Dairy Farming
At the National Dairy Congress held on 21 October 2025 during the Rundvee & Mechanisatie Vakdagen in Hardenberg, Rik Hoogenberg, CEO of ikwileerlijkezuivel.nl, unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at aiding 1,500 dairy farmers in transitioning to nature-inclusive farming. This initiative is particularly focused on farmers operating near Natura 2000 areas, which are crucial for biodiversity conservation. By adopting sustainable practices, the initiative seeks to ensure fair incomes for farmers while contributing to environmental sustainability [1][2].
Nature-Inclusive Practices and Economic Support
The program promises an additional €0.09 to €0.12 per liter of milk for participating farmers, highlighting the economic incentives tied to sustainable practices. Currently, eight farmers are part of this initiative, with plans to expand to fifty next year. This approach not only supports farmers financially but also aligns with broader environmental goals, addressing the delicate balance between agriculture and nature conservation [1][2].
Strategic Goals and Implementation
Hoogenberg’s strategy is built on three pillars: economic viability, legal assurance, and nature inclusivity. He emphasizes the need for real impact over superficial solutions, advocating for a new certification to identify sustainable dairy products in supermarkets. This initiative aims to position all private label butter as nature-inclusive, potentially influencing consumer choices and encouraging widespread adoption of sustainable practices [1][2].
Collaboration and Future Prospects
The initiative underscores the importance of collaboration within the dairy supply chain, echoing the traditional cooperative model. By working together, stakeholders can achieve significant environmental and economic impacts. The ultimate goal is to create a recognizable label for sustainably produced dairy, enhancing transparency and trust in the supply chain, and promoting consumer education on sustainable choices [1][2].