A manure-arrangement based approach to circularity in the Netherlands - Perspective

Summary

Manure is an important element in the transition towards a circular agriculture and society. However, in certain regions of the world with intensive forms of livestock production manure generates some environmental challenges and controversies which might hinder the transition. In this report we deploy a manure-arrangement approach to explore the role of manure in the circularity transition that is currently being organized in the Netherlands. Manure-arrangements are temporary ensembles of actors, practices, things (e.g. technology) and the environment organizing manure matters. In this exploratory research, we summarize key policies regulating Dutch manure. We argue that current policy and other structures hinder, to a certain extent, the space for experimentation and expansion of circular practices. Then, we elaborate on some tensions that emerge by applying the concept of circularity in a growth and globally oriented economy. Finally, from a manure-arrangement perspective, we also address the question regarding human excreta as a missing element in the transition towards more circular livestock and agricultural practices.