Europe's farms are at a crossroads, and the future of our food hangs in the balance. The way we grow our food needs a radical shift, and One Planet Business for Biodiversity (OP2B) is stepping up to the challenge with a bold leadership move. They've appointed two heavyweights, Jan Derck van Karnebeek, CEO of Royal FrieslandCampina, and Ewan Andrew, President of Global Supply & Chief Sustainability Officer at Diageo, as their new Co-Chairs.
But here's where it gets interesting: this isn't just about new faces at the top. This strategic move comes at a critical juncture for European agriculture. The upcoming revisions to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) will shape how Europe supports its farmers, incentivizes environmental stewardship, and embraces regenerative practices for decades to come.
OP2B, a coalition of 25 global companies, is on a mission to transform a staggering 40 million hectares of farmland to regenerative practices by 2030. That's an area roughly the size of Germany! With van Karnebeek and Andrew at the helm, OP2B is poised to inject fresh energy and expertise into the CAP debate, advocating for policies that prioritize soil health, water conservation, biodiversity, and long-term farm resilience.
And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about environmental benefits. Regenerative agriculture is about securing the future of farming itself. By working with nature, not against it, farmers can build more resilient businesses, protect their livelihoods, and ensure a stable food supply for generations to come.
Both new Co-Chairs bring a wealth of experience in supply chain transformation and sustainability. Their appointment strengthens OP2B's ability to make a compelling case for policies that reward farmers for positive environmental outcomes, encourage collaboration across landscapes, and provide predictable incentives for adopting nature-positive practices.
Think about it: what if farmers were rewarded for practices that not only produce food but also sequester carbon, protect water sources, and support thriving ecosystems? This is the future OP2B is fighting for.
Is this a realistic vision, or a utopian dream? Can we truly transform our agricultural system while ensuring food security and farmer prosperity? The debate is open, and OP2B is inviting everyone to the table.
Under their new leadership, OP2B will continue to engage with European institutions, governments, and financial institutions to ensure that policies like the CAP, Carbon Removals and Carbon Farming (CRCF), and Nature Credits Roadmap support profitable farming models that regenerate natural capital and build resilient supply chains.
Van Karnebeek, driven by a passion for sustainable nutrition, emphasizes the importance of farming in harmony with nature, not just for the planet but for the long-term resilience of farmers and communities. Andrew, highlighting the need for bold collaboration, sees OP2B as a catalyst for aligning action across value chains, driving tangible solutions that strengthen biodiversity and build resilience.
What role do you think businesses, governments, and individuals play in this agricultural revolution? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
OP2B, with its diverse membership spanning from Arla and Danone to IKEA and Nestlé, is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between market-driven initiatives and the regulatory frameworks needed for systemic change. Their proven track record and cross-sector expertise make them a powerful voice in the policy dialogue, advocating for a future where agriculture nourishes both people and the planet.
For more information on OP2B's mission and to join the conversation, visit www.wbcsd.org/OP2B or follow them on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/op2b-one-planet-business-for-biodiversity/
