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were willing to consider a new financial arrangement. However,
they were sometimes reluctant to introduce new models because
it would require extra effort. Major constraints they mentioned
were that accountancy rules are strictly interpreted and therefore
rarely allow longer depreciation periods; that most product
groups have little experience with new business models; that
adopting new models can be risky; that it is hard to make takeback
system agreements for products with a long service life,
especially with companies whose longevity is uncertain; and
that circular procurement requires more preparation time and
elaborate negotiation with the supplier than a regular procurement
procedure. As such, most initiatives focused on innovative yet
proven solutions. The participants stated that only a joint effort
orchestrated by an organisation such as the Amsterdam Economic
Board could help them more fundamentally transform product
chains.
5.5 Other Results of the Board Programme: Circular Education
To ensure that educational institutes promote acquisition of
necessary knowledge and skills for circular initiatives, the
Amsterdam Economic Board launched a programme on the
potential of circular jobs. In 2019, 15 regional frontrunners in
education signed the Circular Education Manifesto. They have
committed themselves to anchor circular education in their
institution’s mission and vision and to incorporate circular economy
ideas in their curricula.