Erwin Westers
Where Regenerative Agriculture and Horticulture Come Together
Ecological
The Living Soil System
Where many organic farmers still work with traditional methods, Erwin Westers grew tired of “fighting diseases, pests and weeds.” Since 2006, he has worked alongside his father on the family farm to develop a regenerative farming system. Everything centres on feeding the soil life and stimulating natural growth. The result is a living ecosystem in which soil and plant reinforce each other — and where diseases and pests naturally have less chance to occur. Crop protection becomes unnecessary.
A core element of his approach is keeping the land green all year round with multiple plant species. Through photosynthesis, plants produce sugars that feed soil life — bacteria and fungi. This is essential for healthy soil that stores CO₂.
“The plant is the solar panel for underground life,” Erwin explains. “Without that cooperation, there is no flavour, aroma or vitamins. It’s one system.”
Many fields lie bare in winter, and even in summer soil life comes to a halt when crops ripen. That is why Erwin sows grasses, clovers and herbs beneath the garden cress he cultivates. In this way the soil remains covered, soil life stays active and carbon is stored — around 13.7 tonnes of CO₂ per hectare per year. He certifies this carbon storage, generating additional income in the form of carbon credits, which he reinvests in further developing the regenerative system.
Partners in Regeneration
Koppert Cress is an important partner for Erwin.
“Koppert Cress sees value in seed with a strong soil life and is willing to invest in innovation,” says Erwin.
Together they experiment with crop diversity, soil building and climate-positive cultivation. Around 30% of his production is destined for Koppert Cress. In 2024, Erwin’s land stored 160 tonnes of CO₂ to compensate for Koppert Cress’s emissions. But the partnership goes far beyond supply:
“We share a vision for future-proof agriculture and are building together a system that works both financially and ecologically. And that is exactly what regenerative agriculture is all about.”
Erwin provides not only seeds and vegetables, but also knowledge and practical solutions for the agricultural transition. In 2024, he and several experts founded the Regenerative Alliance Foundation: a platform for farmers who want to start working regeneratively in practice.
“There’s a lot of information online, but it’s often too vague. We provide practical e-learnings, guidance and a community of soil scientists, plant experts and practitioners. This makes it easier for farmers to get started.”
Erwin: “My mission for the future? Healthy food for my five children, and living soil for the next generation.”
Sustainable stories
Introduction
Powerful stories that capture our nature: sustainability at every level and in every aspect.
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Ecological
Koppert Cress's climate goals validated by SBTi
Sustainability requires more than just ambition. That is why Koppert Cress had its climate targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). This independent organization assesses whether climate targets are aligned with the latest climate science and contribute to limiting global warming. With this validation, the SBTi confirms that Koppert Cress’s climate targets are specific, measurable, and aligned with international climate goals.
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Ecological
Koppert Cress will become climate positive in 2026
Climate postive?
Starting in 2026, Koppert Cress will be climate positive. By investing in emission reduction for years and transitioning to fossil-free energy via geothermal power, we are reducing our direct emissions to zero. We will offset the remaining emissions by 125%, meaning we will remove more CO₂ from the atmosphere than we emit.
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Social
Working Together in an Inclusive Organisation
Why is building trust so important to us? Trust shows someone that we believe in their abilities, intentions and dedication to contribute to a shared goal.
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Social
Learning to Change: Connecting Healthy Food, Education and Gastronomy
Koppert Cress and Hotelschool The Hague demonstrate how education, gastronomy and horticulture can strengthen one another. With storytelling as a connecting force, they bring the origin, value and experience of food to life — inspiring the next generation to contribute to a healthier food future.