Opportunities for a circular economy in the Netherlands
2011
This report analyses the opportunities and obstacles that will present themselves as the Netherlands moves towards a more circular economy. It proposes a number of actions that could be taken, particularly by the government, to accelerate this process. This report quanti es these economic and other opportunities to the greatest degree possible, and examines their potential impact on employment and the environment. The analysis focuses on the overall Dutch economy, but it begins by examining two cases – the circular economy for products from the metal and electrical sectors, and the use of waste streams from biomass. The rst case focuses on the recycling of ‘abiotic’ materials, and the second ‘biotic’ materials, both of which present their own speci c challenges and opportunities.
This report aims to answer the following questions:
– What opportunities would present themselves if the Netherlands were to accelerate the transition to a circular economy?
– How can these opportunities be used, how can obstacles be overcome, and what shape should this transition take?
– What part should the government play in this process?