This thesis presents three case studies about private actors aspiring to realize their innovative ideas on land management and design in three different areas in the Netherlands. In appearance, these three areas are very different but they are all dynamic and are all located near cities. In size, the areas range from seventy to a few hundred hectares. Socially, they are highly dynamic as well, with various groups and organizations seeking either to make changes or to conserve what they value, and taking action to promote their ideas.

Soil fertility management is a key issue for sustaining agricultural production in the tropics. Organic resources are important for short-term nutrient availability, as well as for longer-term maintenance of soil organic matter. For smallholder farmers, organic materials are an important source of nutrients, and necessary to manage soil fertility. However, the amount of organic material available on-farm is often limited in supply, and differs widely in quality. This is why the little that is available needs to be used as efficiently as possible.

Voor een duurzame landbouw is maatwerk nodig op bedrijfsniveau. Het rapport “Biodiversiteit en bodembeheer in de landbouw” maakt op dit niveau zichtbaar hoe een duurzaam bodembeheer, inclusief de optimalisering van het mineralenmanagement, hand in hand kan gaan met het benutten van bodembiodiversiteit. De onderbouwing van dit perspectief is mogelijk gemaakt door metingen aan bodembiodiversiteit in 2004-2006 binnen het project Bodem, Bedrijf en Biodiversiteit (BBB) aangevuld met literatuurstudie.

In semi-arid Kenya, episodes of agricultural droughts of varying severity and duration occur. The occurrence of these agricultural droughts is associated with seasonal rainfall variability and can be reflected by seasonal soil moisture deficits that significantly affect crop productivity. The aim of this study was to analyse agricultural drought, and to evaluate soil and water management options and strategies for sustainable crop production in drought-prone semi-arid Kenya. Research was conducted at an experimental site in Katumani and in Iiuni watershed, both in Machakos district.

Centrale vraagstelling in dit rapport is: Is landschap zonder landbouw mogelijk en haalbaar. Een concept is ontwikkeld, waarbij de praktijk in Amstelland (Amstelscheg, Ouderkerk aan de Amstel) als voorbeeld diende

Farmer Field Schools (FFSs) have been used in many countries in Asia, Latin America and Africa as a way to deal with constraints such as crop pests, soil fertility depletion, health issues like HIV/AIDS and the communal management of natural resources. They often work in partnership with local NGOs or Government institutions to develop solutions to complex problems facing farmers. In Lukwanga parish, Wakiso District, FFSs have encouraged the creation of new institutions and led to the development of stronger and more cooperative relationships within the community.