Climate-robust production systems and water management

Due to climate change, the Netherlands is increasingly faced with long periods of drought and periods with a lot of precipitation in a short time. This has major consequences for agriculture and horticulture. The effects and options for solutions depend on the local soil and water system and can therefore differ greatly from region to region. The Netherlands faces the challenge of developing climate-resistant agricultural and horticultural production systems in conjunction with (innovations in) water management. The social aspects of the intended innovations will have to be included in this.

Purpose and objectives
Innovative solutions in which agricultural and horticultural production systems are considered in relation to water system management are vital for a future-proof and sustainable agricultural production. The aim of this research programme is to develop knowledge for climate-robust agricultural and horticultural production systems in relation to research into the effects of water quality, scarcity and surplus. The outcomes of the research are meant to allow for the realisation of innovative and integral solutions for climate-resilient agricultural production that fits within the regional soil and water systems while taking into account societal challenges, transitions, impact and support.

Connection with the creative industries
The creative industry can help direct an integrated approach and link up with societal challenges, transitions, impact and support.

A design approach can also be helpful in the climate-proof design of the rural area in line with the changing society. To this end, integrated solutions are being sought that work at various scales on climate-adaptive production systems in relation to water quality and distribution issues.

This call is mainly in line with the domain of spatial design and also has interfaces with communication.

A number of Key Enabling Methodologies categories can be further developed via this call:
• Behaviour and Empowerment
• Value creation and upscaling
• Institutional change

More information
Deadline Pre-registration: 26 January, 2021, at 14:00 CET
You'll find more information on this call via the NWO website