Innovative revenue models for peat soil

Peat areas are faced with a number of challenges. Peat degradation is causing soil subsidence, and biodiversity is under pressure. Under the KIEM project, the Veenweide Innovatie Centrum (VIC) is exploring innovative and sustainable revenue models.

Project goal

The KIEM project is focused on sustainable and climate-proof peat areas. Innovative revenue models constitute its point of departure, such as new crops that are more resistant to high groundwater levels and thus slow down soil subsidence. The project also explores ways to involve farmers in climate adaptation and nature restoration.

Implementation

In this first phase (phase A), the KIEM project aims to map out the various prospects for peat grassland areas, and the current revenue models. Twenty front runners are playing a key part in this, acting as sparring partners in the project. These front runners are entrepreneurs and businesses interested in working on climate adaptation or, for example, nature-inclusive farming. The project also involves meetings with a range of other stakeholders and experts, such as soil researchers, lawyers and politicians.

Results

The main insights from phase A have been translated into an (internal) report and into the KIEM concept room. The latter is a physical space presenting the main ideas on new revenue models and climate adaptation in an accessible manner. The space is also intended to foster dialogue among various stakeholders. The next phase will involve the further development of several scenarios in order to produce a wide range of revenue models.