The Netherlands commits to continue its support for the International Green Deal North Sea Resource Roundabout. The Roundabout programme aims to increase industry uptake of secondary resources by facilitating their cross-border use within the North Sea region of Europe. The supporting governments facilitate innovative and voluntary initiatives from business, non-governmental organisations and local authorities by supporting entry into networks or addressing legal barriers. The International Green Deal is expected to facilitate frontrunners and innovation in the field of circular economy, the creation of green growth related employment, and the reduction of reliance on finite primary resources. Overall, the aim is to increase investments in business activities that are starting or scaling up the use of secondary resources and circular economy. Ultimately, the Roundabout programme will accelerate the transition towards sustainable and green growth.
The commitment falls under focus areas 2, 5, and 6 of the Batumi Initiative to promote the internalisation of negative externalities and the sustainable use of natural capital; develop clean physical capital for sustainable production patterns; and promote green and fair trade.
Implementing partners will include the governments of Flanders, France, the United Kingdom and The Netherlands, as well as companies, industry associations, port authorities and NGOs.
The commitment is relevant to SDGs 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, and 17.