Laatste nieuws in green
Europe Faces Critical Land Use Decisions as Agricultural Space Shrinks by 8 Million Hectares
Wageningen, Saturday, 17 January 2026.
Without new sustainability policies, the European Union could lose over 8 million hectares of agricultural land by 2050 due to urbanization and farm closures, according to comprehensive Wageningen University research commissioned by the European Commission. The study reveals stark regional differences in land pressure, with Northwest Europe facing intense competition between housing, infrastructure, and food production, while Mediterranean regions struggle with irrigation demands and tourism expansion. This research provides policymakers with detailed scenarios ranging from business-as-usual to Green Deal ambitions, analyzing impacts on emissions, water quality, soil health, and food security across all 27 EU member states.
Dutch Agricultural Innovation Hub Loses Funding as Future Farm Project Goes Dark
Lelystad, Thursday, 15 January 2026.
Wageningen University’s internationally acclaimed Future Farm project in Lelystad faces suspension in 2026 due to funding shortfalls. The groundbreaking initiative, which attracted thousands of global visitors over five years to showcase sustainable farming technologies, represents a critical testing ground for climate-smart agriculture solutions that could reduce environmental impact while maintaining productivity.
Netherlands Crosses 50% Renewable Energy Threshold While Facing Billions in EU Penalty Costs
Amsterdam, Thursday, 15 January 2026.
The Netherlands achieved 50.5% renewable electricity in 2024, joining Europe’s clean energy leaders, yet faces potential €2.6 billion in penalties by 2030 for missing EU climate targets. Despite this milestone, the country projects only 32% renewable energy by 2030—far below the required 39% EU target. Solar power drove the transformation, surging from 1% in 2008 to nearly a quarter of renewable generation. However, uncertainty over subsidy schemes is already delaying new projects, with 75% of companies expecting development to halve. The paradox highlights Europe’s renewable revolution while exposing the costly gap between achievement and obligation.
Netherlands Backs Water Innovation with €10 Million Investment in PureTerra Ventures
Amsterdam, Friday, 16 January 2026.
Dutch government fund Invest-NL committed €10 million to PureTerra Ventures Fund II, targeting breakthrough water technologies addressing global water challenges. The investment aims to catalyze private funding for water startups developing treatment, purification, and management solutions. With less than 1% of Dutch surface water meeting European quality standards, this funding addresses critical water security needs while leveraging the Netherlands’ historical water management expertise for commercial innovation.