LAFERIA: Business models for sustainable water management in farming
A new peer-reviewed article published as a part of the LAFERIA proejct offers valuable insights into circular water management in agriculture, addressing a key challenge in the restoration of landscape features (LF).
The study shows how innovative business models can help farmers adopt water-related landscape features such as wetlands, riparian buffer and hedgerows. Their ecological benefits are well known, but their practical application on farms remains limited, as their utility is not seen as direct financial returns.
The article also identifies important factors for improved soil and water management and new revenue streams related to the circular economy.
The findings highlight the need for further research on creating flexible business models, monetising environmental resilience, and removing practical barriers for farmers. These insights support the ongoing efforts within the LAFERIA project to develop viable economic models and encourage the widespread restoration of LF across Europe.
The article was written by Anna Hansson, Senad Osmanovic, and Pia Ulvenblad from Halmstad University, Sweden.