Dutch-Argentine partnership for a sustainable use of biodiversity, ecosystem restoration and water security

Nieuwsbericht26-08-2025 | 17:12

The enduring partnership between Argentina and the Netherlands reaches into diverse and vital ecoregions, focusing on a nexus approach to nature conservation and sustainable biodiversity use and water management. This deep collaboration is a cornerstone of the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature's (LVVN) foreign policy, which emphasizes sustainable earning potential, resilient food systems, climate adaptation, alongside the protection and sustainable use of global biodiversity.

From the vast Gran Chaco to the unique Patagonian landscapes and the crucial marine environments, collaborative projects are addressing ecological challenges and building resilience, showcasing the deep importance of strengthening bilateral ties in the face of global environmental shifts.

Food systems-water-biodiversity nexus: a regional approach to sustainability

The Netherlands, with its extensive experience in food systems, water management and , and commitment to environmental sustainability, is a natural partner for Argentina's diverse ecosystems. This collaboration is evident in projects led by LAN Office Cono Sur, spanning various critical ecoregions:

Regenerative Livestock in the Gran Chaco: This pilot project in the Gran Chaco, a region characterized by its dry environment and water deficiency, aims to enhance nature and biodiversity conservation by empowering an increasing number of small livestock producers. By promoting regenerative livestock models, the initiative seeks to improve productive indicators as well as strengthening the beef value chain, all while avoiding land degradation. The goal is to support 250 producers initially, with plans to scale up to 430 smallholders and restore vast tracts of native forest.

Regenerative Livestock in Northern Patagonia: In the arid landscapes of northern Patagonia, this project addresses land degradation caused by extensive goat and sheep farming. Through pilot projects with smallholder families, it aims to implement innovative and scalable livestock management practices, to promote soil and vegetation regeneration and enhance ecosystem recovery.
Regenerative Farming: Savannas & Grasslands: Recognizing the immense biodiversity and vital ecosystem services provided by Argentina's savanna and natural grassland ecosystems, this project supports the expansion of sustainable practices, such as agroforestry & pasture rotations focusing on native species. Guided by "Protect, Manage, Restore" pillars, it seeks to create resilient landscapes that balance food production with biodiversity conservation as well as climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts.
Marine Biodiversity & Seaweed Cultivation: Argentina, like other Latin American countries, has seen a decrease in seaweed production despite significant market potential and historical presence. This project focuses on promoting a regional approach to protect marine biodiversity and research the potential for large-scale sustainable seaweed production in Latin America with support from the indigenous communities. Leveraging Dutch knowledge in cultivation, this collaboration aims to enhance the global sustainable seaweed sector and foster structural collaborations between scientific research and Dutch/local SME’s.

Patagonian Peatlands: Patagonian peatlands, crucial for carbon sequestration and water management, face significant threats from mining, species invasion, and fire. This project aims to protect and restore these vulnerable, biodiversity-rich areas, particularly in Tierra del Fuego, by developing integrated governance and monitoring systems. It seeks to combine Dutch know-how in remote sensing, hydrological & landscape modeling, and Indigenous knowledge to inform effective conservation strategies and create scalable solutions for these vital ecosystems.

Blue Deal Project: As part of the broader Dutch Blue Deal program, this long-term partnership with Argentina's Buenos Aires Province Water Authority (ADA) and NL waterboard of Breda. This project focuses on participatory monitoring of water levels, developing surface and groundwater models, investigating water quality issues like cyanobacteria, and strengthening local water governance through Basin Committees. The area covers seven municipalities, with an area of 12,000 km2 (1/3 of the area of the Netherlands). Under an integral vision and a participatory process of the producers, authorities and social actors of the basin, work is carried out in the territory defining water management systems for the reduction of water stress, flood control and the protection of ecosystems, as central axes to sustainable agricultural production. Argentina - Dutch Water Authorities

These diverse projects highlight the multifaceted and impactful collaboration between Argentina and the Netherlands. By working together on these critical environmental and agricultural challenges, both nations are not only achieving tangible results on the ground but also reinforcing a shared vision for a more sustainable and resilient future wherein negative tradeoffs are minimalized. This deep partnership, strongly supported by the LVVN's foreign policy, serves as a powerful example of international cooperation in action, demonstrating how collective efforts can lead to significant progress in global environmental stewardship and food security.

More information

Would you like to know more about Argentina’s holistic approach to conservation and the ongoing projects the LAN Cono Sur team is involved in?

You can visit the country page of Argentina at the website Agroberichtenbuitenland.nl of the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature. You can also send an email to the LAN team in Buenos Aires: bue-lvvn@minbuza.nl.