Waar
The systemic scenario
50 years Limits to Growth, The Final Countdown
Many economies and sustainability transitions do not take resource scarcity into account. They rely on the assumption that increased supply of primary and secondary raw materials will keep pace with the demand, as dictated by worldwide exponential economic and wealth growth.
Based on scientific studies and systemic modelling, the Resource Wende programme advocates the hypothesis that the worldwide resource reserves and supply volumes are unable to meet the growing demand. The programme promotes an alternative systemic scenario to address the eminent resource crisis: What is the European and Dutch strategy in case the desired resource supply cannot be guaranteed, due to planetary boundaries, sustainability challenges, geopolitical tensions and social implications?
This systemic scenario provides an alternative perspective that complements the existing Dutch Circular Economy programme and the draft European Critical Raw Materials Act. As scenario thinking suggests, it is essential to be prepared for multiple pathways that can lead us into a sustainable future, instead of not having a plan B.
Read more about the Resource Wende programme and the why of this conference on the website
Programme Conference
Day 1, May 30: The inconvenient truth
Hosted by Harm Edens
During the first day the focus will be on the inconvenient truth: reality blindness related to resource scarcity. In the morning prominent speakers will show the seriousness of the problem as well as the impact on the energy transition, our society and the worldwide geopolitical relations. In the afternoon you are able to actively participate in two rounds of workshops where we will take a deep dive into the challenges imposed by the increasing demand for resources on our economy, society and ongoing sustainability transitions. The day will be concluded by a lively discussion with industry leaders, to get their view on the risks and the importance of systemic resource strategies to realise a stable investment climate and a license to operate for industries in Europe.
Day 2, May 31: Alternative systemic solutions
Hosted by Harm Edens
During the second day, the focus will be on the forgotten scenario: Alternative solutions that reduce resource demand while at the same time accelerating sustainability transitions. In the morning we will look at government initiatives, such as the European Critical Raw Materials Act and the Dutch Resources Strategy, as well as public-private solutions brought forward by the Club of Rome and the Blue Cooling Initiative. In the afternoon you are able to participate in a workshop where alternative solutions for various focus areas are discussed. The second day will be concluded by a discussion how the Resource Wende complements the Dutch Circular Economy Programme, and a handover of a Resource Wende proposal to political and industry leaders.
During the breaks, lunches, drinks and the optional diner at the end of the first day, you will have ample opportunities for informal conversations and networking.
What do we want to achieve during this conference?
1) Broad awareness of the consequences of resource depletion combined with a “Winner takes it all” market economy;
2) Persuasion power: A group of powerful individuals and organisations united by the desire to tackle the risks of resource depletion;
3) Support the establishment of a Resources Action Research Centre, empowered by a Resource Coalition.
Is this conference relevant for you?
This conference provides the latest knowledge and insights related to resource scarcity and measures (to be) undertaken to mitigate the risks at business, political and social level. The conference also provides the opportunity to network with experts and peers faced with similar challenges. Participants are decision makers and experts from businesses, governments, knowledge institutions, NGOs and media agencies.