Prof. Dr. Rob Bakker

HAS University of Applied Sciences

Rob Bakker is a Professor at HAS University of Applied Sciences, leading research in circular food production. With a PhD in engineering, he specializes in sustainability in food production, biobased and circular economy.

Presentation:
Engaging food producers to take up more sustainable practices: experiences from the Netherlands

Key Points:
• Growing societal demand for sustainable food systems makes engagement of food producers essential for a successful transition towards a circular bioeconomy, across farming, processing, distribution, and retail.
• This paper reports on three Dutch case studies testing strategies to improve nutrient recycling, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and reduce food waste at producer level.
• The case studies draw on applied research with direct involvement of small and medium food producers, including dairy farmers, fresh cut vegetable processors, and a collective marketing plant based protein to consumers.
• While producers are generally motivated to adopt sustainable practices, limited access to knowledge and tools, time constraints, and weak value chain collaboration hinder adoption.
• Direct engagement of food producers can accelerate resource efficiency, reduce environmental impacts, and support resilient and future proof agri food systems.