Kick-off Circular Raw Materials, Energy and Industry

Collective leadership as key

Board member Erik Versnel (Rabobank Amsterdam) opened the program with a review of the Board’s inception, and an explanation of its renewed direction. He called on Koen Overtoom (Port of Amsterdam) to formulate a shared regional proposition – one story, in which Zaanstad, Amsterdam, IJmond and other regions strengthen each other. This will ensure that private and public resources are released for the benefit of a future-proof and sustainable industry.

Jopie Nooren (Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences) emphasized the importance of collaboration from across the knowledge and innovation chain: “We educate 400,000 college and university students in the region every year. Our social mission is to connect that knowledge to the major transitions.” Esther Rommel (Province of North Holland) also spoke out via a video message for collective action focused on circular entrepreneurship, independence from critical raw materials and innovation.

Four inspiring pitches from the industry

During the pitches, it became clear that both the task and the potential are huge. From the manufacturing industry in the IJmond region, Richard Engelkes (AYOP) presented plans to develop the North Sea Canal area into the circular hub for dismantling and recycling wind farms. “We are at the beginning of tremendous material recovery. But we desperately need The Hague, funding and clear regulations.”

Patrick Swart (Techport) outlined the vision for the Netherlands’ first 100% sustainable industrial zone. Techport wants to accelerate innovations through cooperation with companies, governments and educational institutions. “Don’t bullshit, but polish,” said Patrick. “We need professionals as well as dreamers.” That requires a shared regional vision. We are stronger together.

Marcel Henneman (Zaanstad Maakstad) explained how Zaanstad is transforming into Maakstad. “We have a rich industrial history. But grid congestion, nitrogen regulations and lack of space are putting pressure on sustainability. We need joint solutions.”

Tjeerd Jager (EMR) emphasized that sustainability must be financially feasible, despite the pressure of (geo-)political developments. At EMR, sustainability is high on the agenda; they save 19.1 million tons of CO2 annually – equal to Berlin’s emissions!

An open conversation about choices, space and pride

We then discussed the question: Is there room for industry in the region? From Amsterdam, Zaanstad and Velzen there was a call for renewed pride in industry: “We think sustainability is important, we have to make room for it,” said Ilknur Dönmez (Municipality of Amsterdam). The need for reciprocity and understanding was also emphasized. “The industry belongs to us, we need to regain that pride,” stated Stephanie Onclin (Municipality of Zaanstad).

Entrepreneurs stressed the importance of a level playing field and predictable policies. And knowledge institutions called for more shared vision and better exploitation of collective intelligence. In addition, the importance of involving broad-based SMEs was mentioned.

Reflection: from talking to doing

The concluding reflection of Haico Spijkerboer (VNO-NCW), Jopie Nooren and Koen Overtoom was unanimous: the energy was palpable, the conversation constructive – but now the follow-up must come. “We are going to work on a solid proposition for our region,” said Koen. “And we can only do that with input from all of you.”