In the lead-up to the upcoming Parliamentary elections (22nd November 2023), the Royal Association of the Dutch Chemical Industry (VNCI) is providing several recommendations to the political sphere. These recommendations are aimed at contributing to a climate-neutral, circular, secure, and sustainable society and economy.
Regarding the transition of materials, the industry aims to collaborate with the government. This involves solving a complex puzzle: replacing fossil resources with alternative materials, including bio-based resources, waste streams, and CO2 reuse.
According to VNCI, how can the new government expedite the transition of materials?
- By supporting the entire ‘materials chain’: from the availability of alternative resources and plastic collection to encouraging the consumption of sustainably produced goods.
- By establishing a European market for products made with (partially) non-fossil resources, considering international product chains. A tangible national example is setting standards for a minimum content of recycled and bio-based materials in plastics.
- By ensuring the availability of alternatives to fossil resources: creating a developmental roadmap for non-fossil resources that can be rapidly implemented.
- By establishing a governance model that includes both public and private stakeholders to coordinate the implementation of measures and oversee execution.
- By utilizing their own tools and financing options to support material transition efforts, making them affordable for both businesses and consumers.
- By quantifying and valuing the reduction of scope 3 emissions (supply chain emissions), thus rewarding companies for their contributions, similar to scope 1 and 2 emission reductions.
- By focusing on long-term assurance of sustainable material consumption. A clear policy framework is required for both phasing out fossil resources and building up alternative resources.
Furthermore, VNCI provides additional recommendations in the areas of climate neutrality, safety, and sustainability. This includes promoting a business climate that contributes to broad prosperity, a sustainable future, new jobs, open strategic autonomy, and future earning capacity in the Netherlands.
The complete set of recommendations can be found on the VNCI website (Dutch).
Source: Agro-Chemie
Photo: Husky