Encourage circular economy and reuse raw materials
The municipality of Zoetermeer wants to work towards a circular economy. Circularity means that we reuse materials and limit waste as much as possible in order to deal with raw materials sustainably. Reusing materials and limiting waste is essential for achieving climate and environmental goals, such as the national goals to be fully circular by 2050 and to halve the use of raw materials by 2030. In addition, a circular economy contributes to our sustainability goals and to European objectives in the field of CO₂ reduction and circular construction.
Zoetermeer opts for an active approach in circularity policy
The municipality of Zoetermeer is taking a concrete step towards a circular future. Zoetermeer is growing and building, which increases the pressure on raw materials. At the same time, more and more initiatives are being created by residents, entrepreneurs and organizations to deal with materials more intelligently. In response to the call from motion 2306-55 In order to develop policy and measures in the field of circularity, the municipality has had research done into a number of policy scenarios. The pillars: circular construction, circular entrepreneurship, socially responsible purchasing (CSR) and waste form the basis for feasible and realistic policy.
Choice for facilitating policy with decisiveness
The board of mayor and aldermen proposes to opt for an active and facilitating approach in which circularity is fully integrated into policy and implementation. Through collaboration, knowledge sharing, example projects and, where possible, financial support, the municipality wants to stimulate circular development in Zoetermeer. Circularity is gradually incorporated into policy, tenders and projects of the municipality. Think of the reuse of materials in road maintenance, circular construction in housing projects and stimulating entrepreneurs who work with residual flows. The circular transition is not only a challenge, but also an opportunity for the municipality of Zoetermeer.
Alderman Bouke Velzen: "Our municipality is growing, and that demands a lot from our raw materials. Fortunately, we are not alone: more and more residents, entrepreneurs and organisations are taking the initiative to work together to deal with materials more intelligently. In this way, we are building a sustainable future together."
Zoetermeer takes step towards a circular future
With this approach, Zoetermeer is giving concrete substance to the broader sustainability goals of the municipality. By opting for cooperation with regional and national partners, such as the province of South Holland, transport companies and surrounding municipalities, a solid foundation is laid for a circular economy in which everyone can participate. In the coming period, the municipality will work on a plan with concrete actions, projects and clearly measurable results per theme.
The municipal council will make a decision on this in July 2025.