Governance challenges and strategic opportunities for implementing circular economy in greenhouse horticulture: A case study from the Netherlands
Governance challenges and strategic opportunities for implementing circular economy in greenhouse horticulture: A case study from the Netherlands

Summary/Abstract: Research background: Circular economy is promoted as a sustainable and efficient economicmodel in all industries. In the European agricultural sector, and particularly in greenhousehorticulture, its implementation presents both substantial opportunities and significant chal-lenges that must be addressed effectively. The European Union's Common Agricultural Policy(CAP) has the potential to act as a critical catalyst for the adoption of circular economythrough its subsidy and support mechanisms. However, progress remains constrained bya lack of comprehensive information on how governance can effectively advance circulareconomy in different countries and sectors. This gap persists due to the failure to identifyseveral key aspects, and current CAP mechanisms do not adequately address these issues,thereby limiting their effectiveness in promoting a circular economy.Purpose of the article: To identify key government actors influencing the implementation ofcircular economy in Dutch greenhouse horticulture, assess the transformative potential oftheir initiatives and evaluate factors that hinder or facilitate progress.Methods: A review of the scientific literature, application of the Governance Assessment Tool(GAT), and validation of the results by key stakeholders involved.Findings & value added: By applying the GAT, this article offers a detailed assessment of thegovernance dimensions affecting the implementation of circular economy in greenhousehorticulture in the Netherlands. The research reveals that effective governance is crucial forcoordinating and collaborating among various involved stakeholders, such as producers,cooperatives, and auxiliary industries. The challenges highlighted include the lack of consen-sus among market actors and the need for more coherent policies. Currently, strategic oppor-tunities are identified to improve implementation, such as strengthening public policies andpromoting investments in sustainable technologies. Evaluation of these governance dimen-sions allows for determining where to focus time and resources to advance the implementa-tion of circular economy, transforming current limitations into opportunities to support andenhance the transition process.

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