In the Netherlands, the demand for biobased construction materials is growing, and although some are produced locally, many biobased raw materials are still imported. At the same time, there are opportunities to produce these raw materials within the Netherlands: cultivation often requires few inputs like fertilizers and pesticides, making it a good fit for a future-proof agricultural system. Additionally, these crops offer societal and ecological benefits, such as carbon storage, soil improvement, and water enhancement. To explore what the cultivation of crops for biobased construction can contribute to the Dutch agricultural landscape, we conducted an exploratory study in collaboration with BOOM Landscape and commissioned by the Ministry of the Interior. This “calculating and designing” approach combines design research that visualizes the possibilities for a biobased production landscape with our mathematical expertise. We developed a tool that provides insights into the societal and economic value of various crops for the biobased construction sector.
Starting in the summer of 2024, the tool has been updated with the most recent public data on the costs and revenues of biobased crops.
This provides up-to-date insight into the annual balance. Other business costs, such as labor, machinery, and processing costs, are not included. This annual balance serves as a standard indicator, allowing users to compare the profitability of crops providing raw materials for biobased construction with crops like potatoes and grains. In addition to the business case – the profitability – we also offer an initial insight into the value case. This includes greenhouse gas emissions and sequestration, soil quality, biodiversity, and opportunities for water storage and purification, revealing broader ecological and societal value. This gives users an initial view that helps them make informed decisions on cultivation strategies, land use changes, and policies.
