Project
Nature-based Solutions for Climate Resilient and Circular Food Systems
Nature-based solutions are claimed to positively contribute to food security under climate change conditions. However, the knowledge underpinning this claim is fragmented and insufficiently existent. This project aimed to improve our understanding about nature-based solutions in the context of food systems at risks due to climate change.
Case studies are used to improve understanding of different types of pathways and interventions that are inspired by or make use of natural processes. We have tried to include underpinning mechanisms as well as their potentials and limitations in achieving food security and maintaining (and/or increasing) biodiversity and circularity under climate change.
Project
Concepts:
Use Cases
-
Increasing diversity as underpinning mechanism
- Case study I examines the functioning, potentials and limitations of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) by increasing (bio)diversity. These solutions aim to increase crop diversity and to develop a more diverse diet for livestock to increase climate resilience of the food system. -
Resource efficiency (water)
- Case study II applies a landscape-based approach to examine and act upon nature-based solutions with the aim to address the mismatch between (waste) water demand and supply.
The research activities take place in two different geographical areas (i.e. the Netherlands and Ghana) where food systems face different challenges and specific climate risks.
In both areas we consider (a) opportunities and constraints that stakeholders may perceive; (b) future technological development in both cropping and waste water treatment and (c) the benefits for nature.