5s4b: Transition to an agroecological community oriented, circular food system in the Netherlands

Abstract

The Netherlands is well known for its intensive, efficient and import/export-oriented agriculture and food system. Since climate change impact and ecological challenges became prominent issues, achieving circularity and nature inclusiveness have become important objectives. Industrial ecology is the dominant paradigm for the desired transition focusing on resource use efficiency and a prominent role for agribusiness. An emerging paradigm is agroecology combining a holistic worldview with social innovation of the food system. This paradigm focusses on place based, community oriented initiatives leading to alternative food networks.