Former Dairy Farmer Donates Land for Eco-Friendly Agriculture
Zeewolde, Monday, 23 June 2025.
Jeroen van Steen donates 20 hectares valued at 4.2 million euros for sustainable farming, showcasing Dutch agricultural innovation.
A Major Contribution to Sustainability
On 21 June 2025, Jeroen van Steen, a former dairy farmer from Zeewolde, officially transferred ownership of 20 hectares of farmland to BD Grondbeheer. This significant donation, valued at 4.2 million euros, aims to promote sustainable agriculture and community wellbeing. By donating the land, Van Steen aligns with an increasing trend among farmers to incorporate ecological and socially responsible practices in their operations [1].
Vision for a Better World
Van Steen’s decision to donate the land stems from a profound belief in enhancing societal equity and environmental harmony. He expressed a deep sense of satisfaction and relief after finalizing the transfer, a process marked by years of planning. This act is part of his vision to reduce societal disparities and foster community connections through shared resources. The project has drawn varied public reactions, with some lauding the initiative as groundbreaking, while others remain skeptical [1].
BD Grondbeheer’s Unique Role
BD Grondbeheer, a foundation devoted to nature-friendly farming, has lauded the initiative as unprecedented in its scale and intent. Although the foundation now owns the land, it functions primarily as a steward, ensuring the land’s availability for agricultural use by other farmers and horticulturists. The land will not be sold, thus preserving it for future generations dedicated to sustainable agriculture [1].
Financial Challenges and Community Support
Despite the noble intentions behind the donation, BD Grondbeheer faces a substantial financial hurdle due to the state-imposed tax requirement of 300,000 euros. To address this, the foundation has launched a crowdfunding campaign that has thus far garnered over 65,000 euros. This effort highlights the collective community involvement necessary to support sustainable initiatives. This collaborative action reflects a broader societal shift towards investing in ecological sustainability [1].