For centuries, manure has been a cornerstone of healthy soils and productive farms. Today, the Netherlands is taking bold, innovative steps to make manure not just a natural fertilizer but a key player in circular agriculture, where nothing goes to waste!

The Dutch approach focuses on closing the nutrient loop: surplus manure from one farm can fertilize fields elsewhere, while precision technology ensures crops get exactly what they need. With stricter nitrate limits, 170 kg per hectare, farmers face challenges, but they’re meeting them with creativity and collaboration.

From national strategies to international partnerships, the Netherlands is sharing its know-how worldwide, from France to Vietnam, Romania to Senegal, helping other countries unlock the full potential of animal manure for sustainable food production.

Whether it’s high-tech fertilization, manure export, or nutrient recycling, Dutch farmers and policymakers are proving that manure isn’t waste - it’s a valuable resource for a greener future!

As Marten van den Berg, Director-General of Agriculture, puts it:

• “Together, we can close the cycle.”

Question to ponder: How could your region use its agricultural resources more efficiently to create a truly circular food system?