Circular economy is a hot topic in Europe and was included in national agendas of Germany and the Netherlands. The EU Green Deal programme is pushing our economy towards more sustainability and less waste, and thus, the re-use of (raw) materials. The "Circular economy action plan" is one of the main building blocks for this programme.
Turning Cross-Border Networks into Circular Value Chains
Europe is committed to a resource-efficient economy, and both countries have set clear frameworks. The Netherlands aims for a fully circular economy by 2050, supported by the programme "Nederland circulair in 2050" and its implementation programme for the circular economy. Germany's National Circular Economy Strategy (adopted in December 2024) brings together the goals and measures of all relevant federal strategies, with the aim of reducing the primary demand for raw materials in absolute terms.
Our connected regions are well placed to contribute. East Netherlands and North Westphalia have particular expertise in material applications in the textile, plastics, wood, electrical, manufacturing and construction sectors, and are working intensively on circular polymers. Tried-and-tested cooperation structures and a strong culture of innovation add to this. For companies, the transition also opens up new business models and a more resilient, resource-conserving future.
Our vision and objectives
We want to build an economy in which circularity and the sustainable use of resources are the standard, and in which companies develop new business models and shape this future together. For 2026–2027, we are sharpening our focus from broad networking towards concrete cross-border value chains, project development and measurable economic impact.
Three priority value chains
- Construction and biobased materials
- Plastics
- Metal and electrical
- Textile sector
