The power of cooperation between education, government and industry in green chemistry

The transition to a sustainable economy requires innovation, decisiveness and cooperation. In the Northern Netherlands, the green chemical industry should play a key role in this transition. But to obtain this position, close cooperation between education, government and industry is essential. Only by working together on long-term strategies and aligned curricula can we tackle tomorrow’s challenges.

Why strategic collaboration is crucial

The green chemical industry is characterised by rapid technological developments and a growing demand for skilled professionals. However, current educational provision does not always seamlessly match industry needs. This can create a mismatch between the type of talent companies are looking for and the type of talent available.

The challenge

Although cooperation between education, government and industry is already taking place in the northern Netherlands, the focus is often on short-term projects. However, strategic, long-term collaborations are needed to realise structural changes, such as:

• Improving the alignment of educational programmes with the needs of green chemistry.
• Developing new skills needed for innovations such as circular economy and green hydrogen.
• Engaging and captivating young talent in the region.

A strategic approach

To be successful, collaborations need to go beyond project-based work. It requires vision, commitment and a shared goal. By organising partnerships that work at both regional and cross-sector level, we can strengthen the green chemical sector.

How education and industry can work better together

Education is the breeding ground for tomorrow’s specialists and innovators. But how can businesses and educational institutions work together more effectively?

1. Active involvement of companies in curriculum development. Companies often have unique insights into the skills and knowledge needed in the workplace. By sharing these insights with educational institutions, curricula can be better aligned with practice. Consider adding modules on circularity, sustainable production processes or green chemistry.
2. Internships and practical experience. Internships and practical assignments form a bridge between theory and practice. Companies can play an active role by structurally offering internships and supervising students. This not only gives students valuable work experience, but also increases the likelihood that they will continue to work in the region after their studies.

3. Lifelong learning and in-service training. Cooperation between education and business should not stop at graduation. Encouraging further training and lifelong learning keeps employees up-to-date with the latest developments in the industry. This not only strengthens the industry, but also makes the region more attractive to talent.

4. Research and innovation. Educational institutions can collaborate with companies on research and innovation projects. This not only provides valuable insights for both parties, but also strengthens the competitive position of the region.

While educational institutions play an important role in training talent, policymakers and companies can create the framework conditions needed for successful collaborations

Inspiring examples: Greenwise Campus and Seaports Academy

The northern Netherlands already has some successful partnerships that can serve as examples for the rest of the sector.

• Greenwise Campus

Located in Emmen, the Greenwise Campus brings together education, businesses and governments to work on sustainable solutions. The campus focuses on training talents and strengthening regional innovation power. Here, students, researchers and companies work together on projects in the field of green chemistry and circular economy. The success of the Greenwise Campus shows how a joint approach leads to better connections between theory and practice.

• Seaports Academy

The Seaports Academy, initiated by Groningen Seaports, combines education and research with practical experience. The focus is on themes such as energy transition, hydrogen and digitalisation. Through intensive supervision of trainees and cooperation with MBO, HBO and WO institutions, the Seaports Academy plays a crucial role in training the next generation of technicians and innovators.

Such initiatives show how cooperation at local level can help solve global challenges.

The role of policymakers and businesses

While educational institutions play an important role in training talent, policymakers and companies can create the framework conditions needed for successful collaborations.

• Policymakers:
  • Encourage collaboration by making grants available for joint projects.
  • Develop policies that promote innovation and research, such as investment in campuses and research labs.
• Companies:
  • Take a proactive role in training and mentoring talent.
  • Collaborate with other companies in the region to share knowledge and address common challenges.

Working together for the future

The green chemical industry offers huge opportunities for the northern Netherlands, but only by working together can we fully exploit these opportunities. Strengthening strategic partnerships between education, government and industry is essential in this respect.

Call to the sector

Let’s invest in a sustainable future together. By sharing knowledge, training talent and building long-term partnerships, we will make the Northern Netherlands a leading region in the green chemical industry. The future is green, innovative and above all: together.