In this episode, Harm Edens of BNR Duurzaam talks to Hans van der Weijde, Innovation Director at Tata Steel in IJmuiden and chairman of the HTSM working group on the circular economy. The conversation covers topics such as rare metals, European dependencies and the art of reusing. Because what do geopolitical tensions and increasingly scarce raw materials mean for the Netherlands? And what is needed to become truly circular – from design to production?
Hans Van der Weijde explains why design-for-recycling is crucial and how Tata is already taking steps towards reuse, scrap recycling and the useful use of residual products such as steel slag. Of course, we will also discuss the recently announced wave of layoffs and the question on everyone's lips: what do local residents now notice of Tata's sustainable ambitions? Is the promise of green steel in 2030 feasible or mainly a hopeful ambition?
Hans van der Weijde, Innovation Director at Tata Steel and chairman of the HTSM working group on the circular economy:
One of the things I find important in this period, with a smaller budget, is setting priorities. This is becoming increasingly important. With the emphasis on the National Technology Strategy (NTS), we have created a clear focus from the cabinet and EZ. That also means making choices, and sometimes that hurts, because there are things we do not choose. But I believe that the NTS really offers us the opportunity to take steps forward as the Netherlands. It is great to see that the activities of Holland High Tech (TKI High Tech Systems and Materials) fit in perfectly with this, and we also try to incorporate other broader themes such as sustainable mobility into the NTS as much as possible.
