An Overview of Dairy Production and Consumption in the Northwest European Delta Metropolis
Research Overview
The Northwest European Delta Metropolis (NWEDM) is a highly urbanised region spanning parts of the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, and France. With urbanisation projected to reach 87% by 2050, this region plays a key role in Europe’s agri-food economy; particularly in the production and export of dairy, beef, and veal.
This study set out to evaluate the dairy balance of the NWEDM region, examining whether it is self-sufficient in milk production. The team analysed five countries, focusing on dairy production, consumption, efficiency, and import-export flows. Despite being a net exporter, the study revealed a negative milk balance—indicating that milk is imported from outside the region to meet processing demands and maintain strong global export positions.
Although NWEDM produces enough milk to meet its own consumption needs, its high-intensity dairy farms result in significant manure production and nitrogen surpluses. This surplus persists even after exporting manure to other agricultural regions, such as wine orchards in France. However, when it comes to feed ingredients, more research is needed to determine whether local alternatives can effectively replace current imports and how to manage competition for these resources.
WMFC Perspective: Rethinking Boundaries in the Nitrogen Debate
Much of the Dutch political debate around agriculture has focused on the Nitrogen Crisis, questioning why the Netherlands exports so much food while struggling with nitrogen emissions at home. From a broader NWEDM perspective; however, this discussion takes on a different meaning.
A large share of Dutch agri-food exports remain within the NWEDM region, effectively operating as a local-for-local system at a European scale. This urban cluster crosses national borders and includes closely linked regions with shared challenges and opportunities.
The objective of this ACT project was to zoom out and evaluate dairy and nitrogen balances at the regional level, beyond country borders. The team’s calculations show that:
Larger farm sizes are correlated with higher dairy production efficiency.
There is active intra-regional trade of dairy within the NWEDM, with more exports than imports overall.
Nitrogen surpluses are concentrated in the northern part of the region (especially the Netherlands), while the southern parts (notably in France) face nitrogen deficits due to large-scale crop farming.
Towards a Circular Approach
Rather than seeing animal manure as a waste product, it should be recognised as a valuable resource for improving soil health and sustainable crop production. The WMFC team believes the nitrogen issue cannot be solved within national borders alone. A broader, regional approach is essential.
Improved manure collection and processing technologies are needed to transform waste into high-value products. This is part of WMFC’s broader vision for circular agri-food systems: systems that use all available resources wisely, connect urban and rural areas, and create sustainability across regions.
