The Northern Netherlands faces important choices regarding sustainability and economic growth.
In the Opportunistic Sustainability scenario, the region flourishes through trade and innovation, but pollution and a wider gap between rich and poor are also created.
In Regulated Mass Consumption, the government provides strict rules for sustainability, but at the expense of innovation and freedom.
Orchestrated regionality emphasizes small scale and self-sufficiency, which strengthens local ties but is not feasible for everyone.
In Revaluing Consumers, people choose local production, but self-reliance remains a challenge for some.
There is no "best choice" scenario: each scenario shows a balance of opportunities and sacrifices, with the Northern Netherlands seeking a balance between profit, welfare, freedom and control.
View the four future scenarios about the Northern Netherlands
Read the white paper on future scenarios
The strength of the North in 2040
Where will we be in 2040? Described from different scenarios. From the laissez-faire market to digitized economies of scale.
Download the pdf
Also listen to the podcast on the North's strength in 2040