We support the Delta Plan for the Landscape
Landscape contribution: thanks to all the pilgrims who have registered lately, we have just transferred €150 to the Dutch Cultural Landscape Association. Especially for the benefit of their “Delta Plan for the Landscape“.
In this Delta Plan, 200,000 kilometres of Dutch arable land, grass and ditch edges are designated as green zones. Think of hedges and flowery strips that are good for insects and birds. Farmers are paid to manage the area, and new walking and biking trails allow everyone to enjoy the beauty. In the Ooijpolder there is a model area of the plan – the Walk of Wisdom runs along it (route maps 3 and 4).
The clever thing about the plan is that nature lover and farmer are not opposed to each other as enemies. Instead, they work together. In the plan, a one-off 12 billion euros will be put into a fund. The farmers are paid from the annual revenue of 600 million euros. Thanks to this construction, the plan is independent of uncertain subsidies ‘in perpetuity’.
FIVE times around the world
In an extensive analysis in Vrij Nederland , creator Jaap Dirkmaat argues that in this way we can restore the cultural landscape of the Netherlands with 80% of its biodiversity: the variety of plants and animals that the Netherlands has to offer. It would create a green ribbon that goes around the earth no less than five times. A blessing at a time of mass extinction of species due to the disappearance of their habitats and the use of poison. In combination with organic farming without poisons, the profit is even greater.
Top-level sport
‘We need to make biodiversity a top sport,’ concludes Jaap Dirkmaat. That sounds good. Because even in top sport, the impossible dream is the basis. Real Olympians cycle up the same mountain every day if necessary. And finally realize their dream – to the delight of an entire country.
Read the article in Vrij Nederland
More about the infectiously ambitious “Delta Plan for the Dutch Landscape” on the website of the Dutch Cultural Landscape: link.
Landscape contribution Walk of Wisdom
We set aside at least €1 of each pilgrim’s registration fee to pay out to nature and landscape projects along the route. This year we hope to welcome around 1,500 new pilgrims. We are on schedule. More about registering: link
Photos by Dutch Cultural Landscape
