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In recent years the term ‘nature-positive food systems’ has gained attention. Attention has evolved from global advocacy about the reciprocal relationship of food systems with nature towards really rethinking these systems based on these relations. The term, however, leaves room for interpretation, and a blurred understanding of the concept may undermine meaningful steps towards required change. Therefore we here explored how "nature-positive food systems" could be meaningfully defined, in a way that is beneficial for nature-positive transitions. To do so, we formulated a working definition, based on literature and internal discussions, acknowledging that defining nature-positive food systems is contextual and a process in which increasing shared understanding is the aim, not obtaining a final definition. As working definition, we refer to nature-positive food systems as food systems that have nature at the heart of decision-making and that will lead to increased biodiversity and improved ecosystem functioning through collective understanding and action. It is important to acknowledge that also nature-positive food systems need to provide sufficient and healthy food for people. The definition reflects five building blocks: “nature”, “positive”, “food systems”, “nature at the heart” and “collective understanding and action”. These reflect different components of the term “nature-positive food systems” and elements that were frequently mentioned in existing definitions of “nature-positive”. The five building blocks are explained in this report, referring to discussions in the literature and internally that have led to the working definition.

The last few years the term ‘Nature Positive Food Systems’ has gained attention as a result of global advocacy to rethink our food systems and the reciprocal relationship with nature. The food system is both impacting nature and benefiting from nature, and therefore key in achieving nature-positive ambitions. Most crucially the idea of ‘Nature Positive’ reflects the increasing global consensus on the ambition to not only halt biodiversity and ecosystem decline, but reverse the destruction of nature and regenerating nature. Moreover, the concept of ‘Nature Positive’ is not just about numbers, it is all about a different look: a positive look on nature and its interaction with the systems that feed us. The significant move from reducing harm to regenerating nature, raises the question if Food Systems can contribute and become nature positive themselves.The concept of ‘Nature Positive Food Systems’ consists of two elements: ‘nature positive’ and ‘food systems’.Food systems as the whole complex range from activities from farm to fork. In the food system approach the food system activities are already placed in between social and environmental drivers, addressing the functionalrelationships and interdependencies. If we define nature in its broadest sense, as often implied, this represents the environment in the food system approach: the external world in its entirety. It is not just about plants and animals, about habitats; it is also about soil, water and functioning ecosystems in all its diversity. Therefore, biodiversity and ecosystem functioning are often used as an indicator for the state of nature.The figures are clearly pointing out the nature is under pressure. There is no single cause but most are involving human decision-making and are reflective of the human-nature relationship. Many of our key systems heavilydepend on the benefits of nature, which have been deteriorating over time. To this end, it is also clear that urgent action is required since reversal an

This study investigated national genebanking priorities based on information reported in the Domestic Animal Diversity Information System (DAD-IS) and feedback provided by gene bank managers. Only 3.2% of national breed populations are reported to have enough material collected to allow breed reconstitution in case of extinction. Depending on species, region and demographic risk status, there are substantial differences in quantities of germplasm collected when comparing breeds with a high risk status vs demographically important breeds. Most genebanks have small budgets and use pragmatic approaches for collecting germplasm by partnering with breeding organisations and/or artificial insemination companies. They also work with a variety of breed associations to implement collection strategies to ensure that the breadth of genetic diversity is captured. Future collection growth within countries will be driven by national programs that incorporate stakeholder participation, collection use, the scope of diversity captured; and will depend upon levels of public and private funding.

We developed infographics explaining inbreeding and genetic management for breeders, breeding organisations and the general public. Infographics are illustrations combined with text to obtain clear communication and understanding of concepts. The infographics consisted of three parts: (1) what is inbreeding and what are the consequences; (2) how to manage inbreeding for animal breeders and owners; (3) how to manage inbreeding for breeding organizations. The infographics can be downloaded for free and are available in several languages.

In order to safeguard farm animal genetic diversity for current and future use, reinforcement of national genebank strategies is needed as an important complementary measure next to maintenance and improvement of live breeding populations. A Quality Management System (QMS) is an important tool to integrate the needs of various stakeholders into the genebank strategy, to mitigate risks associated with collections’ management and to professionalize the genebank operations and protocols. A peer review system, where genebank staff visit and review other genebanks, was tested and appeared to be an effective tool to enhance the further development of the strategies of individual genebanks, their operations and impact. For instance the peer review was an opportunity to exchange about collection and freezing protocols, advises were given to better organize storage of genetic material and data management, or more general recommendation were done such as suggesting to develop a better communication strategy.

Biodiversity loss is a global threat and biodiversity for food and agriculture is particularly relevant in the context of our food systems. This report discusses the current status and trends of crop, livestock and aquatic genetic diversity, in relation to food systems. The impact of decreasing or enhanced use of crop, livestock and aquatic genetic diversity – within and across species and varieties – is discussed in relation to four different food system dimensions: 1) safe and healthy diets, 2) food security, 3) inclusiveness and equal benefits, and 4) sustainability and resilience. To this end, both a literature review and stakeholder and expert interviews were used. We provide a conceptual framework for assessing trade-offs of different measures and strategies for increased use of crop, livestock and aquatic genetic diversity. We furthermore highlight key topics for future research and policy recommendations in this area., Verlies van biodiversiteit is een wereldwijde bedreiging en met name de biodiversiteit voor voedsel en landbouw is relevant in de context van onze voedselsystemen. Dit rapport bespreekt de huidige status van, en trends in, de genetische diversiteit in gewassen, vee en aquatische soorten, in relatie tot voedselsystemen. De impact van afnemend of toenemend gebruik van genetische diversiteit in gewassen, vee en aquatische soorten – binnen en tussen soorten en variëteiten – wordt besproken in relatie tot vier dimensies van het voedselsysteem: 1) veilige en gezonde voeding, 2) voedselzekerheid, 3) inclusiviteit en gelijke voordelen, en 4) duurzaamheid en veerkracht. Hiervoor is gebruik gemaakt van zowel een literatuuronderzoek als interviews met stakeholders en experts. In dit rapport bieden we een conceptueel kader voor het beoordelen van de wisselwerking tussen verschillende maatregelen en strategieën voor het vergroten van het gebruik van genetische diversiteit in gewassen, vee en aquatische soorten. Verder benoemen we een aantal belangrijke richtingen voor toekomstig onderzoek en beleidsaanbevelingen op dit gebied.

More biodiversity and genetic diversity in crops, trees, and livestock is considered an important strategy to improve resilience and sustainability of agricultural and forestry production systems that contribute to climate mitigation and adaptation. Plant and animal breeding need to provide well-adapted varieties and breeds that fit into these systems.In this report, we draw visions of five innovative agricultural production and forestry systems and used them in focus groups of scientists, breeders, and pioneer entrepreneurs to discuss the contribution of biodiversity and genetic diversity to the sustainability and resilience of the system, breeding goals, access to genetic material to realize the breeding goals, and the priorities for breeding and research. Although transition pathways can differ between systems, strategic research i should concentrate on the relationship between wider use of genetic resources, increasing beneficial species/breed/variety interactions, and the resilience of production systems.---Meer biodiversiteit en genetische diversiteit in gewassen, bossen en landbouwhuisdieren wordt beschouwd als een belangrijke strategie voor veerkrachtige en duurzame land- en bosbouwsystemen die bijdragen aan klimaatmitigatie en -adaptatie. Veredeling en fokkerij moeten goed aangepaste rassen leveren die passen bij deze systemen. In ditr apport schetsen wij vijf visies van innovatieve land- en bosbouwsystemen en hebben deze gebruikt in focusgroepdiscussies met wetenschappers, fokkers en veredelaars, en pioniers. Met hen hebben we de bijdrage van biodiversiteit en genetische diversiteit aan de duurzaamheid en weerbaarheid van het systeem, de fok- en veredelingsdoelen, de toegang tot genetisch materiaal om die doelen te realiseren, en de prioriteiten voor onderzoek bediscussieerd. Hoewel systemen kunnen verschillen in het transitiepad, is strategisch onderzoek nodig, gericht op de relatie tussen een breder gebruik van genetische bronnen, verbetering van gunstig

The growth of animals is a complex trait, in chicken resulting in a diverse variety of forms, caused by a heterogeneous genetic basis. Bantam chicken, known as an exquisite form of dwarfism, has been used for crossbreeding to create corresponding dwarf counterparts for native fowls in the Dutch populations. Here, we demonstrate the heterogeneity of the bantam trait in Dutch chickens and reveal the underlying genetic causes, using whole‐genome sequence data from matching pairs of bantam and normal‐sized breeds. During the bantam‐oriented crossbreeding, various bantam origins were used to introduce the bantam phenotype, and three major bantam sources were identified and clustered. The genome‐wide association studies revealed multiple genetic variants and genes associated with bantam phenotype, including HMGA2 and PRDM16, genes involved in body growth and stature. The comparison of associated variants among studies illustrated differences related to divergent bantam origins, suggesting a clear heterogeneity among bantam breeds. We show that in neo‐bantam breeds, the bantam‐related regions underwent a strong haplotype introgression from the bantam source, outcompeting haplotypes from the normal‐sized counterpart. The bantam heterogeneity is further confirmed by the presence of multiple haplotypes comprising associated alleles, which suggests the selection of the bantam phenotype is likely subject to a convergent direction across populations. Our study demonstrates that the diverse history of human‐mediated crossbreeding has contributed to the complexity and heterogeneity of the bantam phenotype.

Endangered breeds in fragile socio-economic contexts are particularly exposed to population decline and stochastic perturbations expected following COVID-19 pandemic. The interest of richer societies for short food chains, natural food and traceability of products can create opportunities for local breeds production systems in the context of COVID-19. National surveys on the breed diversity status following COVID-19 should address negative situations and opportunities. COVID-19 has revealed risks, fragilities and inequalities for our food systems. The aim is to build resilience at all levels. Agroecology, which implies to conserve breed diversity, can play an important role.

Presentatie, gehouden tijdens Inspiratiedag Ondernemen met erfgoed rassen en gewassen Woensdag 9 oktober 2019, Landgoed Hindersteyn.

National gene bank collections for Holstein Friesian (HF) dairy cattle were set up in the 1990s. In this study, we assessed the value of bulls from the Dutch HF germplasm collection, also known as cryobank bulls, to increase genetic variability and improve genetic merit in the current bull population (bulls born in 2010–2015). Genetic variability was defined as 1 minus the mean genomic similarity (SIMSNP) or as 1 minus the mean pedigree-based kinship (fPED). Genetic merit was defined as the mean estimated breeding value for the total merit index or for 1 of 3 subindices (yield, fertility, and udder health). Using optimal contribution selection, we minimized relatedness (maximized variability) or maximized genetic merit at restricted levels of relatedness. We compared breeding schemes with only bulls from 2010 to 2015 with schemes in which cryobank bulls were also included. When we minimized relatedness, inclusion of genotyped cryobank bulls decreased mean SIMSNP by 0.7% and inclusion of both genotyped and nongenotyped cryobank bulls decreased mean fPED by 2.6% (in absolute terms). When we maximized merit at restricted levels of relatedness, inclusion of cryobank bulls provided additional merit at any level of mean SIMSNP or mean fPED except for the total merit index at high levels of mean SIMSNP. Additional merit from cryobank bulls depended on (1) the relative emphasis on genetic variability and (2) the selection criterion. Additional merit was higher when more emphasis was put on genetic variability. For fertility, for example, it was 1.74 SD at a mean SIMSNP restriction of 64.5% and 0.37 SD at a mean SIMSNP restriction of 67.5%. Additional merit was low to nonexistent for the total merit index and higher for the subindices, especially for fertility. At a mean SIMSNP of 64.5%, for example, it was 0.60 SD for the total merit index and 1.74 SD for fertility. In conclusion, Dutch HF cryobank bulls can be used to increase genetic variability and improve genetic merit

Traditional Dutch chicken breeds are marginalised breeds of ornamental and cultural-historical importance. In the last decades, miniaturising of existing breeds (so called neo-bantam) has become popular and resulted in alternatives to original large breeds. However, while backcrossing is increasing the neo-bantams homozygosity, genetic exchange between breeders may increase their genetic diversity. We use the 60K SNP array to characterise the genetic diversity, demographic history, and level of inbreeding of Dutch heritage breeds, and particularly of neo-bantams. Commercial white layers are used to contrast the impact of management strategy on genetic diversity and demography. A high proportion of alleles was found to be shared between large fowls and neo-bantams, suggesting gene flow during neo-bantams development. Population admixture analysis supports these findings, in addition to revealing introgression from neo-bantams of the same breed and of phenotypically similar breeds. The prevalence of long runs of homozygosity (ROH) confirms the importance of recent inbreeding. A high diversity in management, carried out in small breeding units explains the high heterogeneity in diversity and ROH profile displayed by traditional breeds compared to commercial lines. Population bottlenecks may explain the long ROHs in large fowls, while repetitive backcrossing for phenotype selection may account for them in neo-bantams. Our results highlight the importance of using markers to inform breeding programmes on potentially harmful homozygosity to prevent loss of genetic diversity. We conclude that bantamisation has generated unique and identifiable genetic diversity. However, this diversity can only be preserved in the near future through structured breeding programmes.

Investigate the genetic make-up of nine horse populations in the Netherlands: increase our understanding of their evolutionary history and provide valuable information on how to best conserve or improve these populations

Een Lakenvelder en een Groninger blaarkop zijn makkelijk te herkennen aan hun specifieke kleurpatronen. Maar dat is niet het enige wat hen onderscheidt. Met behulp van DNA-onderzoek kan men nu van een dier zonder stamboomgegevens op basis van zijn DNA zien tot welk ras het behoort.

Net als in 2013 wordt de status van de van oorsprong Nederlandse rassen besproken. Het betreft het aantal volwassen stamboekgeregistreerde vrouwelijke dieren van rund, schaap, geit, varken, paard, hond, kip, konijn, duif, gans, eend en honingbij. En de trend in de afgelopen 15 jaar.

As input for the TEEBAgriFood study, TEEB asked for a series of studies on livestock, rice, palm oil, inland fisheries and agro-forestry. This report deals with livestock production and aims to improve decision-making in livestock production policies, to enhance its viability, not just economically but also socially and environmentally. Livestock sector is important because they have high externalities and it is expected that livestock consumption will be 76% higher in 2050 compared to 2005 (Alexandratos and Bruisma, 2012) because of population growth, income growth, urbanization and preference shifts. This report aims to provide evidence that will help to identify policy options for the transition towards increased food security with sustainable livestock production systems, with particular emphasis on the role of smallholder farmers.

Het Nederlandse hoen (of kip, waarmee we meestal hetzelfde dier bedoelen) staat symbool voor onze eeuwenlange verbondenheid met de kleinschalige landbouw. Al naar gelang de tijdgeest komt het tamme hoen in veel gedaanten voor: van onopvallende scharrelaar bij kleine boeren tot adellijk pronkstuk, en van zinnebeeld van 'vleselijk genot' tot productiekip. Deze brochure biedt een kort overzicht van de rol van de verschillende hoenderrassen in de landbouwgeschiedenis, en van de rijke diversiteit aan rassen en kleurslagen.

Op 11 november 2016 waren ruim 140 vertegenwoordigers van overheid, veredeling, fokkerij, maatschappelijke organisaties, onderzoek en onderwijs in gesprek met elkaar over het thema van de Nationale Dag van de Genetische Diversiteit. Aan het succes van deze dag in Ouwenhands dierenpark droeg bij dat men kon netwerken, nieuwe kennis opdoen en genieten van een lunch met Slow Food en ZeldzaamLEKKERe producten.