More nature-inclusive agriculture requires both nature restoration and agricultural restoration
The LIFE project “Belgium for Biodiversity” is fully committed to promoting biodiversity in Belgium, including in agricultural areas. In three pilot areas - Brakouter (Landen), the Heart of Haspengouw, and the Left Bank of the Scheldt - the Flemish Land Agency and Nature Agency aim to intensify their efforts toward nature-inclusive agriculture, building on existing initiatives. To explore opportunities for more nature-inclusive agriculture in these areas, INBO conducted in-depth interviews with farmers and other stakeholders. This was followed by workshops to discuss the results together.
The responses reveal just how much both nature and agriculture are under pressure. There appears to be a need for a policy that simultaneously supports the restoration of both nature and agriculture. Long-term regional visions should ideally integrate nature conservation goals and goals for profitable agriculture within the constraints set for nature. There is a need for tailored solutions, flexibility, and room for innovation. There is a strong local willingness to engage in dialogue, exchange knowledge, and collaborate. Farmers and conservationists want to experiment with innovative management agreements—tailored to local needs, introduced step-by-step, and continuously improved. Independent advice, professional monitoring of effectiveness, and participatory evaluation and adjustment can make nature-inclusive agriculture possible.
Sanne Van Donink, Louise Vercruysse & Myriam Dumortier
