Samenvatting

This research analyzes best practices for the benefit of developing a financially sustainable, high-quality farmers’ cooperative under the Bonaire Platinum label, supporting the islands’ local food security and improved resilience of the food system by increased local production and local market resilience. By examining successful initiatives, this research aims to identify effective strategies that could potentially be applied to Bonaire.The study concludes that key challenges include lack of local ownership, resistance from stakeholders, over-reliance on rigid certifications and misaligned funding. The cases of Vanuatu (Oceania) and the Wadden show that small-scale, culturally grounded, and community-led approaches are essential for Bonaire, avoiding risks like loss of authenticity, limited scalability, and conflicts of interest. With regards to collaboration models, cooperatives and Participatory Guarantee Systems offer promising alternatives to rigid certification for Bonaire. Long-term commitment should align with local drivers and involve youth, farmers as well as the tourism industry. Initiatives should be in line with indigenous knowledge, authentic storytelling and honest communication.This study involves an introduction with methodology, moving on with best practices of Vanuatu and the Wadden Islands. Various collaboration systems highlight in which direction Bonaire could continue regarding a certification system and governance structures. The main challenges and risks based on the interviews and desk research are described, followed by a chapter which aims to overcome the challenges, aiming to look into the future of Bonaire Platinum. The reference list and appendices provide supporting materials to the report.