Northern Netherlands Deserves Circular

This project aims to answer the following question: how do we organise the circular economy by forming an ecosystem where companies and organisations cooperate and strengthen each other?

This project looks at forming circular value chains in the construction, manufacturing, and plastics industries. It uses an integrated approach, analysing the impact of each step. 

The following activities form the core of the project: 

1. Aligning the innovation ecosystem optimising cooperation between partners and stakeholders. A shared thinking framework and shared ambitions are formed. 
2. Developing SME programmes and embedding circular competencies. Building and improving required competencies, tools and business models for the circular industry are identified. 
3. Experimenting and learning by doing. We monitor collaborative business models and the learning experiences that come with them.

The expected outcomes of this project include:

• a report with a vision of the future of the circular economy in the Northern Netherlands
• improved mutual awareness of the partners (partners know how to find each other better)
• map of the competencies required for a circular economy in the north of the Netherlands
• new business models
• training programmes, workshops and handbooks for entrepreneurs

The impact of the project will be a unified vision of the circular economy in the Northern Netherlands. Partners are connected to each other, and they have developed the necessary tools and instruments for an effective circular business model. An effective ecosystem has been developed in which new entrepreneurs can also find themselves and everyone can join. Any necessary investments, programmes and projects within the ecosystem have been defined. 

In addition, new circular value chains have been explored and their learning experiences can be implemented in practice, including in the construction industry, manufacturing industry and plastics production and recycling.

The project involves preparation activities that will form the foundation for circular business operations. With this foundation, companies and organisation in the Northern Netherlands can become front runners in the transition to a circular economy. It will create more innovation and employment by better connecting companies and forming a unified vision of the circular economy.