Dutch gov't pushes millions into innovation, despite education budget cuts
NL TimesThe Dutch government is investing 17.6 million euro in 54 groundbreaking biotechnological projects, Education Minister Eppo Bruins announced Monday, even as broader budget cuts loom over the nation’s scientific community. The funding supports research and development with direct societal impact, such as filtering pollutants using mushroom waste, detecting food allergies with a breath test, and neutralizing methane emissions with bacteria. Dutch scientists and businesses excel in biotechnology, and we need to cherish and expand this expertise.” Among the funded projects are a breath test designed to detect food allergies, bacteria engineered to neutralize methane emissions, and customized chemotherapy treatments tailored for ovarian cancer patients. However, he defended the new investments, saying, “These innovations are exciting because they show immediate value for our lives.” While researchers like Van Brenk welcome the funding, concerns remain about the long-term impact of the cuts.