Organic agriculture in the Netherlands focuses on soil health

Developments in the Dutch organic agricultural sector are focusing on soil health and integrated food systems. At the Eten bij Beelen site in Houten, formerly the Jongerius nursery, plans are underway to combine organic cultivation, food production, education, and community engagement. The youth network BioJong recently visited the location to discuss building alternative food systems and ways to connect new generations with organic farming practices.

In Flevoland, organic farmer Stefan van Woerden of Van Woerden Flevo is emphasizing long-term soil vitality through the use of green manure, legumes, and nitrogen-efficient crops. Van Woerden highlights the necessity of a stable market demand from consumers and retailers to support the sector's growth. Rabobank has linked these practices to its 'True Value' principle, which prioritizes long-term value creation through investments in biodiversity and soil health over short-term yields.