Programme

Day 1: The ambition of a territory. Unfolding the Euro Delta region and circular ambition
The initial day is dedicated to examining the scale of the Eurodelta area from a circular standpoint. Initially, we aim to grasp this distinctive spatial layout as a decentralised metropolis. Moving towards a circular built environment and society poses challenges, necessitating tackling climate, energy, mobility, agriculture, and economic concerns. All these issues are unique because they have a significant spatial impact. Consequently, a swift and qualitative transition towards circularity is impeded until we comprehend it as a spatial endeavour. How does the Eurodelta region operate? What is its scale? Which circular practices are actively pursued by businesses in this region? What policies, strategies, and alliances are necessary to transform circular transitions into opportunities that bolster prosperity and the quality of life in the Eurodelta? This quest delves into an actionable perspective, presenting us with a shared responsibility.

The afternoon will be dedicated to visiting a number of locations in Rotterdam, including BlueCity. In 2024, BlueCity is a model city for the circular and blue economy and home to 55 entrepreneurs. It is a meeting place for pioneers and enterprising minds, where they develop a framework for action, whether to grow their impact, live a zero-waste life, or develop a future-proof material. BlueCity’s mission is to accelerate the transition from the linear to the circular economy through entrepreneurship. More specifically, our dot on the horizon is the blue economy. 

Day 2: Unfolding the Eurodelta region metabolism flows
The second day examines and maps the different flows characterising the Eurodelta region and its transition and ambition towards a circular built environment. Three dimensions have been chosen to unfold this complexity: The territorial dimension, the knowledge dimension and the governance dimension. In particular, we would like to understand:

• What are the territorial flows that define the Eurodelta? What types and quantities of materials are in motion within the region? What are their spatial dimensions? What infrastructures are necessary? How have they evolved over time and space? Can we already identify specific territorial clusters or hubs? Understanding these aspects could potentially shape the future development of the Eurodelta region.
• Which movement of people are present in the Eurodelta? Are people moving as if they are in one region or metropolis? If yes, why and how are people moving? Which type of knowledge exchange is happening?
• Which circular policies already exist, and which sectors are involved? Are policies crossing national boundaries? Which barriers, challenges, and opportunities exist?

The second day will conclude with a public seminar on the summer school topic.
 
Day 3 Envisioning a Circular Transition
On the final day, we will guide participants to critically reflect on the knowledge gained in the previous days. We will encourage them to use their speculative imagination to envision future circular scenarios for the Eurodelta. We will explore the possibilities of closing, narrowing, or slowing loops of flows in the Eurodelta, and discuss the scales at which circular strategies, businesses, and policies can be developed. Participants will also learn various approaches to scenario construction for a circular transition, enhancing their understanding and application of circularity concepts.