Education¶

Education is crucial to the success of a circular economy, providing individuals with the knowledge, skills, and awareness needed to promote resource efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable consumption. By fostering a culture of circularity, education helps embed these principles across communities. Additionally, vocational training and reskilling programs are essential for preparing the workforce for circular professions, such as repair, remanufacturing, and sustainable design, and bridging gaps created by inevitable shifts in employment.

In Friesland, education and learning are deeply integrated into the region’s broader circular economy approach. By investing in education that aligns with circular economy goals, Friesland not only serves to strengthen its labour market but also ensures that future generations are equipped with the knowledge to create a more equitable and sustainable society. Moreover, Friesland emphasises collaboration through hands-on learning, reinforcing circular principles in practice.

A prime example of this is ‘Education Accord Friesland’ which is an educational agreement between five educational institutions and the province of Friesland and the Municipality of Leeuwarden that works towards structurally integrating circularity, inclusiveness into education, particularly at a community level^[1]. TAs part of this effort, the agreement is developing ‘werkprogramma’ lifelong learning plans designed to embed circular economy education into the region’s broader curriculum, ensuring a lasting impact.

Although there are limited indicators to measure circular education in Friesland,^[2] the region’s commitment is evident through the involvement of education institutions in initiatives like SPARK the Movement. This program connects schools, businesses, and policymakers to embed sustainability across all education levels. All MBO, HBO, and WO institutions in Friesland actively participate in SPARK alongside a range of companies, primary education institutions, and other stakeholders.^[3] Their collective involvement underscores the region’s dedication to promoting circular principles through education.

SPARK embodies a holistic approach to sustainability education, integrating environmental and circular economy principles while also emphasizing social sustainability aspects such as equity and inclusion.

Friesland’s leadership in circular economy education is further demonstrated through various initiatives, including SPARK the Movement’s ‘Los met Lisdodde’^[4], CIRCO Hub Fryslân’s efforts to train businesses in circular design and entrepreneurship, and VCF’s Circular Business Management Program. These efforts showcase the region’s commitment to equipping individuals and businesses with the skills needed for a circular future.

Improving education

The following examples showcase initiatives already ongoing in Friesland that integrate circular economy principles into education.

Turn your ideals into action with the best BSc of The Netherlands

Learning to manage socio-technical change processes in Friesland (MSc)

Education cooperates for Broad Prosperity and a circular economy

SPARK the Movement: Educating for a Circular Friesland

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

• Expand circular economy education across all school levels, ensuring sustainability and circular principles are embedded in primary, secondary, and higher education curricula, fostering a deeper understanding from an early age.
• Strengthen vocational and reskilling programs tailored to the circular economy by focusing on practical skills in areas like repair, remanufacturing, and sustainable design, preparing the workforce for the growing circular economy sectors.
• Enhance collaboration between schools, businesses, and policymakers by linking education initiatives like SPARK the Movement to local industries, ensuring that students gain real-world insights and skills that align with market needs, while also encouraging more involvement from local businesses.