A methodic way to more sustainable farming systems

A methodic pathway is suggested for the definition, elaboration, evaluation and introduction of farming systems based on an "integrated' or an "ecosystem-oriented' vision, both considered more sustainable than a "world-market-oriented' vision. The objectives of these three basic types of systems are defined in measurable terms with respect to the major social values or interests supported or adversely influenced by agriculture. A strategy is assessed through which the objectives can be achieved while avoiding their conflicts. Arable farming is taken as an example of the elaboration, evaluation and introduction of integrated and ecosystem-oriented systems. It is discussed how prototype systems can be developed on an experimental farm, evaluated by a pilot group of farmers and dispersed on a large scale. For the short term it is recommended to focus research and policy on integrated farming systems. For the long term it is recommended to develop ecosystem-oriented farming systems to solve the agricultural crisis in a more comprehensive and sustainable wa

Kunstvlees voor vleesverlaters

Het nieuwste project van Johan Vereijken van Wageningen UR Food and Biobased Research gaat over insecteneiwit. ‘Strikt genomen is dat geen vleesvervanger’, bekent de biochemicus. ‘Maar insecten produceren eiwitten ongeveer twee keer zo efficiënt als kippen. Dus kijken we sinds november 2009 met collega’s van de leerstoelgroep Entomologie of we op basis van bijvoorbeeld meelwormen vervangende vleesproducten kunnen make

Designing prototypes

This first progress report of EU concerted action AIR-CT 920755 presents the state-of-the-art in European research on Integrated and Ecological Arable farming systems (I/EAFS). There are 16 projects going on in 10 European countries. The basic objective is to establish a common frame of reference by elaborating and standardising methodology

Region-wise development of prototypes of integrated arable farming and outdoor horticulture

In the Netherlands integrated arable farming systems (IFS) are being developed at three regional experimental farms, with region-specific crop rotations and cropping systems. Most pesticide and fertilizer inputs appear to be replacable by non-chemical methods and organic manure, with economic results similar to conventional systems. The targeted reductions in pesticide use in the Netherlands' Multi-Year Crop Protection Plan for the year 2000 can already clearly be met. Further improvements of the prototype systems are considered. Recently started farming systems research for outdoor horticulture is briefly discussed

Integration of animal husbandry and nature conservation on grassland farms

A farming model for peat grassland has been designed as an instrument in physical planning, integrating equally nature conservation and animal husbandry by combining the conditions for existence of both. It includes a subdivision of the farm in production grassland and nature grassland, such as marsh marigold Caltha palustris hayfield and blue grassland. Each type of grassland ha a suitable combination of groundwater level, P- and N-controlled animal and plant production, and a regime of mowing and grazing depending on its function for flora, (avi)fauna and animal husbandry

Van monoboeren naar multiboeren

Omschakeling van intensief monoboeren (voedselproductie) naar extensief multiboeren (met diensten voor collectieve functies zoals landschap, natuur, recreatie