veldgebruik

Veldgebruik is a Dutch term that refers to the way land is utilized within a landscape, encompassing the distribution, organization and management of open fields, forests, built-up areas and other land covers. It describes how different functions—such as agricultural production, nature conservation, housing, recreation, infrastructure and water management—coexist or compete within a geographic area. The concept is central in land-use planning and landscape ecology, where it is used to analyze spatial patterns, changes over time and the effects on ecosystem services and biodiversity.

Veldgebruik is assessed with maps and indicators that quantify land-use categories, intensity of use, and connectivity between habitats. Typical dimensions include the type of land cover (crop land, pasture, forest, urban), the level of intensity (high/low), ownership and management regimes, and the temporal sequencing of uses (seasonal grazing, harvest cycles). It also considers ecosystem services provided by different land uses, such as food production, carbon storage, water regulation, recreation, and cultural landscape value.

Policy and management instruments related to veldgebruik include spatial plans, zoning rules, agricultural and nature policies, subsidies for multifunctional land use, and environmental impact assessments. Effective veldgebruik aims to balance productive needs with environmental sustainability, social goals, and resilience to climate change. Stakeholder participation, monitoring, and adaptive management are important components to respond to changing conditions and new knowledge.