Research project CAMBIUM

CAMBIUM = Connecting Actors and Multidisciplinary knowledge on agroforestry into a Broadly applicable and Integrated guidance tool: towards acceleration and Upscaling iMplementation.

Evolving towards agricultural practices that contribute more to biodiversity and a resilient soil and water system is desirable, especially in light of climate change. This must be done while recognizing the primary role of our farmers, namely healthy and fairly paid food production. The application of agroforestry as a promising alternative to existing agricultural activities and as a prototype of what restorative agriculture can entail has not yet been sufficiently embraced. Advice to agricultural businesses does not address agroforestry in sufficient detail. Spatial plans and regulations from governments at all levels often contain, perhaps unintentionally, obstacles to effectively starting and developing agroforestry. Research shows that in the Flemish context, there is a need for (1) research results in a local context, (2) agro-ecological education at various levels, (3) a change in mentality among farmers and consumers (regarding prejudices and engagement), (4) a clear and stimulating legislative framework, and (5) economic added value. Within this project, we focus on these action points. The main objective of this project is to promote and accelerate the cost-effective application of agroforestry across borders in Flanders and the Netherlands by increasing support and professionalizing advice and knowledge sharing.

Some sub-objectives are:
- Discovering available integrated knowledge and resources, including insight into and supplementing knowledge gaps.
- Developing an "Integrated Agroforestry Support Package" containing high-quality materials and programs for courses and training, enabling professional advisors to work with various target groups and support the implementation of agroforestry.
- Designing and implementing training for 30 professional agroforestry advisors who will then actively support agricultural businesses in implementing new agroforestry (multiplier), in addition to at least nine practical knowledge sessions focused on specific target groups.
- Implementing top demonstration projects (lighthouses) on four agricultural businesses with distinctive characteristics, designed and organized based on current insights, that serve as examples and sources of practical knowledge and monitoring. Offering a temporary package of incentives (vouchers for free advice and support) to help 20 businesses implement new agroforestry practices.
- Insight into and analysis of the preconditions that significantly influence the implementation and expansion of agroforestry, including solutions that can stimulate the scaling up of agroforestry in the Netherlands and Flanders.
- Creating 10 to 20 hectares of new agroforestry with a sound (profitable) business model (in 4 demonstration projects) and an additional 50 to 100 hectares in 20 businesses using the voucher scheme.
- Building awareness of and support for agroforestry, particularly among residents in areas where projects are being implemented.

Interesting opportunities for aspiring agroforestry farmers:
- Need advice on agroforestry, including food forestry? Take advantage of the voucher program within the Interreg CAMBIUM project. (FULL)
- An interesting opportunity for agricultural advisors who want to train as agroforestry advisors: agroforestry training: deepen your expertise as an agricultural advisor (ALREADY STARTED). The training courses takes place at various inspiring agroforestry locations in Flanders and the Netherlands from September 2025 to June 2026.

More info? Contact Mieke Vandermersch (mieke.vandermersch@vlaamsbrabant.be)

Finance: Interreg Vlaanderen-Nederland