PATHWAYS TO A CIRCULAR ECONOMY - Port of Rotterdam

Circular economy model for THE ENERGY SECTORGAS AND CARBONIntroductionThe energy sector is a major contributor to human-inducedclimate change, which according to Röckstrom, is one of thethree systems that has already exceeded the boundaries ofits safe operating space. The two biggest challenges in theenergy sector are reducing emissions of CO 2(its main wasteproduct) to acceptable levels and finding alternative energysources to fossil fuel, such as natural gas.The circular economy model developed for the energysector uses alternative energy resources and minimizesthe production of waste (see Figure 5). It relies on energyefficiency improvements and biomass resources to reduceemissions of CO 21. In addition, it recovers and reuses flowsof waste. Meeting the scale of carbon capture shown in themodel will be a challenge, but existing plans in Rotterdamsupport these numbers. Several options for businesssymbioses to exploit alternative uses of CO 2exist, andalthough small in volume, they increase value andeconomic activity.As an energy intensive area where production andconsumption meet, the Rotterdam/Delta region wants toreduce emissions and increase alternative energy usage.The region’s engaged local industry and proximity to theNorth Sea (storage) and Westland region (horticulture),give it the potential to develop carbon capture capabilitiesas well as storage and utilization solutions within the nextthree to five years. The port is vital when it comes to thesupply and throughput of sufficient biomass for energyproduction in the future.1Although biomass combustion does produce CO 2, it is considered to be CO 2neutral asthe carbon was captured shortly before emission takes place.37/73PORT OF ROTTERDAM / RABOBANKPATHWAYS TO A CIRCULAR ECONOMY