Community¶

Strong social ties and a sense of belonging are essential for the success of a circular economy. In Friesland, the concept of mienskip—a deep-rooted sense of community, mutual support, and collective responsibility—plays a central role in fostering collaboration, shared resources, and local initiatives. This strong community spirit empowers individuals and organizations to work together towards common goals, driving innovative, community-led solutions that align with circular practices. By strengthening these social bonds, mienskip not only encourages the adoption of sustainable practices but also promotes inclusivity, ensuring that the transition to a circular economy is both regenerative and equitable for all members of society.

In Friesland, both trust in others and the percentage of people involved in volunteer work are above the Dutch national average^[1]. The high rate of volunteering underscores the above concept of mienskip, showcasing high levels of community engagement and a collective mindset which are essential for collaboration. Similarly, high levels of trust reinforce social cohesion, providing a strong foundation for effective cooperation and collective action.

Improving the community

The following examples showcase initiatives already ongoing in Friesland that harness a strong sense of community.

Project Nieuw Oud Oost: A Circular Approach to Urban Developmen

Kening fan 'e Greide: Community for Biodiversity

Sociale Voedseltuinen: Circular Communities in Friesland

Culture for Circularity: Arcadia in Friesland

To build on the existing strength, the following actions are key:

• Increase support for community-driven circular initiatives, ensuring more funding, resources, and policy backing for projects like community gardens and resource-sharing hubs.
• Raise awareness of the benefits of circular activities by promoting the positive impact of initiatives like repair cafes and sustainability workshops, encouraging more participation from the wider community.
• Link circular economy initiatives to schools by integrating sustainability and circular practices into the curriculum, encouraging younger generations to get involved in hands-on projects and creating long-term engagement.