The Dutch Minister of Economic Affairs and Climate has sent a Letter to Parliament about their vision for a sustainable basic industry by 2050, titled Sustainability of the basic industry; an opportunity for the Netherlands.
It illustrates how Dutch, European and global climate policy represents a fundamental change for industry. By 2050, industrial production must become climate neutral. At the same time, it is also clear that the world will still need basic industrial products by 2050. We will continue to drive, travel, dress, use medicines; all possible thanks to basic industry.
With this vision, the Dutch government outlines a new perspective for a sustainable, climate-neutral basic industry in the Netherlands. The transition to climate neutrality requires great efforts from companies and government: both financially and in terms of cooperation, with an active coordinating role for the national government.
On the other hand, there are enormous opportunities for the Dutch economy and for the Dutch contribution to solving the challenges of climate change. With a transition from its own basic industry, the Netherlands can become the breeding ground and accelerator for sustainable industry worldwide and at the same time strengthen its strategic position in industrial value chains.
The Letter to Parliament is the first part of a two-part vision for industry in 2050. The second part will be focused at the manufacturing industry. The latter will be published after summer.