Samenvatting

This paper presents an integral assessment tool for the social and ecological embedding of a farm. In transitioning towards sustainable farming systems, a product-baed view as well as a location-based view is needed. The location-based perspective focuses on the combined effects of farming practices on the social and ecological context of the farm. Based on a need expressed in practice, and inspired by Doughnut economics, the FarmingTree Tool was designed. Using a qualitative assessment of on-farm activities for six social and ten ecological themes, this farm assessment tool supports awareness of and communication on the situation of the farm. Testing of the tool in various contexts showed a high added value for communication between the farmer and stakeholders with an interest in the development of the farm. The tool creates a shared understanding of the farm allowing to discuss farm development options in a clear manner with stakeholders with a specific interest in the development of the farm, like local food systems or in a lesser-tenant situation and as well students in farming related studies. The tool strengthens the farmer in conveying the 'story' of the farm in its entirety and its complexity. Keywords: farming, assessment tool, Doughnut Economics, strategy, embedding