The circular water authority

Sustainable working practices

The first steps have been taken already. We are increasingly working towards becoming a circular water authority. We use fewer raw materials and limit harmful effects on the environment. In our work, we consider costs, performance, risks, and consequences for people and the planet. We make sustainable choices wherever possible.

Better for the environment and lower costs

We increasingly opt for renovating pumping stations, weirs, and flood defences. Demolition and new construction are not always necessary. This costs less and is better for the environment. We also purchase sustainably as much as possible. Suppliers who ensure lower CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions have an advantage when it comes to contracts and tenders.

Reusing raw materials

We do not view raw materials as waste, but rather seek to reuse them. For example, excavated dredge spoil can be used as a construction product. We can also recover energy and raw materials from sewage treatment. The sustainable dyke reinforcement at lake Lauwersmeer is a good example of how we, together with partners, reuse raw materials and limit CO2 emissions as much as possible.

Home | Lauwersmeerdijk-Vierhuizergat Dyke Reinforcement (noorderzijlvest.nl)

Noorderzijlvest Circular Roadmap

Our water authority is already doing a lot in the area of circularity. Various studies and experiments are conducted with renewable materials, including bio-based materials and cement substitutes. You can read more about this in our Circular Roadmap. In this document, Copper 8 has provided insight into how we, as water authority, can work and design in a more circular manner. If you would like to receive a copy of the complete document, please contact us: All contact details.