From Fibre to Floor – Connecting Farmers and Builders

How can regional chains for biobased construction contribute to both more sustainable building practices and stronger regional economies? In the regions of Salland and Northern Netherlands, farmers, builders, policymakers, researchers and other stakeholders collaborated to explore this question.

Rather than focusing solely on technical innovation or economic efficiency, the project centered on creating multiple forms of value: ecological, social and economic. Together, participants identified the values that mattered to them—such as income security, CO₂ reduction, or renewed appreciation for craftsmanship. Through active collaboration, mutual understanding and shared ownership began to emerge.

The project demonstrates that biobased construction requires more than a linear chain from farmer to builder. Other stakeholders – including financiers, policymakers and end users – are essential to building sustainable systems. This calls for time, space for process, and an approach that brings perspectives together to co-create shared solutions.

The approach offers valuable lessons for changemakers: invest in dialogue with unexpected partners, build shared understanding, and use methodologies as tools – not as an end in themselves.

Want to learn more about this project? Read more here.

€43,354,- will be used as a PPP program grant.