The future of Agrifood calls for collaboration.
Climate change, population growth, and labor shortages are putting pressure on food production. At the same time, demands for sustainability and efficiency are increasing. The Netherlands has the technology to lead in this area, but broad collaboration is needed to apply innovations quickly and effectively.
Pressure on food production is increasing
The agricultural sector faces significant challenges worldwide. Climate change disrupts harvests, the demand for food is growing due to a rising global population, and a shortage of labor makes it difficult to keep existing processes running. At the same time, stricter demands are being placed on sustainability and efficiency.
Technology as a solution
Robotics and automation can help increase productivity and reduce waste. The Netherlands has advanced precision technology and data-driven systems that can make a difference. However, to achieve impact, innovations must be applied more broadly and not be limited to a select group of companies.
Collaboration accelerates innovation
The Handsfree Agrifood ecosystem brings together parties from various disciplines. By combining technological developments and adopting common standards, innovations can be implemented more quickly. This ensures transparency in the supply chain, increases delivery reliability, and reduces waste.
The Netherlands as a leader in Handsfree Agrifood
By smartly combining knowledge, technology, and data, the Netherlands maintains its international position in sustainable food production. The Handsfree Agrifood ecosystem ensures that companies not only lead technologically but also gain control over their strategic position within the global food chain.
Innovation packages for a future-proof Agrifood sector
To realize our vision, we are working within the Handsfree Agrifood ecosystem on three innovation packages: Open Field Cultivation, Greenhouse Horticulture, and Food Processing. Each package accelerates the development and application of technologies that automate processes, increase productivity, and improve sustainability. By connecting knowledge, data, and collaboration, we make innovations widely applicable – from autonomous agricultural machines and smart greenhouses to advanced food processing.
Open Field Cultivation
Greenhouse Horticulture
Food Processing
Domain lead
Suzanne Verboon
Suzanne has extensive experience with innovative projects and programs, both nationally and internationally. As Program Manager for Agriculture, Water, and Food at FME, she leverages her passion for these sectors to accelerate solutions.