The Netherlands: 'Protecting the countryside is necessary'

The concerns about the loss of agricultural land are widely shared within the Netherlands. More than 75% of the population sees agricultural entrepreneurs as crucial for the countryside in our country and therefore considers their protection necessary. This is apparent from a survey by Direct Research, commissioned by LTO Nederland, among 1.500 Dutch people.

A group of activists for the preservation of the Lutkemeerpolder, an agricultural area that is being converted into a business park, were on Monday 7 September arrested. Research by Direct Research shows, however, that they are by no means the only ones advocating the preservation of agricultural lands. More than 75% of the 1.500 Dutch people surveyed find it crucial that the (cultural) landscape of the Netherlands is protected.

The Dutch greatly appreciate our characteristic landscape and the major role that agricultural entrepreneurs play in it. "Our characteristic countryside (with cows in the meadow, bulb fields and arable fields) is recognized worldwide. Dutch agriculture and horticulture play an important role in the appearance of our country and the vitality of the countryside," says Ben Haarman, nature portfolio holder. and Landscape at LTO Netherlands.

Concerns about disappearing land
There are also major concerns about the fact that agricultural land is under pressure. Over the past 30 years, about 190.000 hectares (or 10%) of the agricultural area in the Netherlands has already disappeared due to industry, solar meadows and housing. According to the Dutch, protection is therefore necessary.

In addition, a large majority (more than 77% of the respondents) believe that farmers are necessary for the vitality and quality of life in the countryside. A comparable group is of the opinion that meadow areas in the Randstand should not be designated for housing. It is striking that a large part of the Dutch (52%) is in favor of installing solar parks on meadows and fields.

Kimberly Baker

Kimberly Bakker is an all-round editor at Boerenbusiness. She also has an eye for the social media channels of Boerenbusiness.

k.baker @boerenbusiness. Nl

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