Framing Sustainability in the Dutch Agricultural Context

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2023-08-11

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en

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The Dutch government has enacted legislation to promote sustainable agriculture due to climate change and international commitments. However, this has led to confusion and conflict within the agricultural sector and environmental groups. Disagreements arise from varying interpretations and framings of what sustainability means in agricultural contexts. Differences in these frames primarily consist of different emphasis on environmental sustainability (so-called "birds and bees" frame) or economic sustainability (so-called "future for farmers" frame). These dominant frames often rely on scientific and economic arguments to defend their position, yet little constructive debate occurs between the supporters of either frames. Attempts are made to bridge these frames and promote cooperation by organizations like Greenpeace and Natuur & Milieu, suggesting frame synthesis might be possible These findings align with previous research that defines sustainable agriculture as meeting environmental, economic, and social criteria at the same time with varying levels of importance for each aspects depending on the framing. Further research is recommended to understand the impact of ongoing protests and legal cases. Achieving a common understanding of sustainable agriculture remains a challenge, but it's necessary for progress given the current impasse.

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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen