Annelies Zoomers
In International Development Studies we study the consequences of large-scale land acquisitions on sustainable development.
Land Governance
In recent times we have seen the emergence of a 'global land rush'.
Sustainability is about the way phenomena are interrelated in place and time. The European argument in favour of investments in biofuels and food security has major consequences for land use in Africa, Asia and Latin America. The food, climate and energy crisis in 2008-2009 has led to a 'global land rush' in recent times. This means that not only European and American entrepreneurs, but also the governments of countries such as Saudi Arabia, China, India, etc. are trying to gain access to 'empty' areas in sub-Saharan Africa for the cultivation of food and biofuels. This new form of 'offshore' agriculture is controversial.
Consequences of large-scale land acquisitions on sustainable development
In International Development Studies, we study the consequences of large-scale land acquisitions on sustainable development (see:www.landgovernance.org). In particular, we examine the influence of 'land governance' and 'responsible entrepreneurship'.
Annelies Zoomers, Professor of Human Geography, with a focus on international development