The Netherlands has launched an updated National Circular Economy Programme 2023-2030 that sets a new goal: reduce raw material use by 15 percent by 2035 (relative to 2016 levels). This reflects a shift from the previous ambition to halve use of new abiotic materials by 2030. The revised target now includes reused materials and biotic resources, while excluding fossil fuels. The aim remains: a fully circular economy by 2050.
The new plan also includes concrete sub-targets:
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Recycle 82 percent of waste by 2035
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Ensure 55 percent of used materials are biogenic or recycled
In designing the new framework, the government explicitly states that it builds on earlier efforts. The 2023–2030 programme is grounded in transition agendas for five sectors: consumer goods, plastics, construction, manufacturing, and biomass & food. These were established earlier and translated into concrete actions during the 2019–2023 implementation period.
However, critics point out significant gaps. The Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency (PBL) notes that much of the updated plan consists of “intentions and proposals” without binding commitments. They warn that government funding will decline after 2025, creating a risk of ambition outpacing resources.
In 2025, the PBL had already judged the earlier 2030 target (to halve raw material use) as "highly unlikely" under existing measures, recommending stricter policies or higher pricing for non-circular materials.
Thierry Aartsen, State Secretary for the Environment, has defended the revision as more realistic and better aligned with geopolitical and economic constraints. He cautioned that unilateral mandates, for instance, minimum recycled plastic content at the national level, could drive businesses away unless harmonized across Europe.
Why This Matters for Business
For companies in the Netherlands, this recalibration signals rising expectations: sustainability is evolving from cost center to strategic imperative. Otherwise, optional practices will soon be nonnegotiable.
To adapt, organizations must:
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Reassess material usage through metrics like LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) and carbon accounting (ISO 14064-1)
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Align supply chains toward circularity and resource efficiency
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Monitor raw material flows, emissions, and waste
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Integrate sustainability targets into core strategy
My Perspective
As someone committed to sustainability, I see this update as progress, but also a moment of truth. The revised targets are more attainable, but real impact depends on binding measures, consistent funding, and collaboration across policy scales.
For businesses, the time to act is now. Measuring impact, optimizing materials, and designing for circularity are no longer optional but essential.
— Morena
