Climate Justice in the Netherlands

The Netherlands faces significant climate challenges: rising sea levels, increasingly unpredictable weather, and growing vulnerabilities in urban areas. At the forefront of addressing these challenges is the Climate Research Initiative Netherlands (KIN), an innovative collaboration platform helping the country transition toward a climate-neutral and climate-resilient future.

Inclusivity and justice are central to KIN’s mission. Its goal is to make climate action not only effective but also fair and equitable. Within this framework, The Hague University of Applied Sciences plays a key role as a partner in the KIN program: Accelerating Just Climate Transitions in Urban Regions.

ACT: Bringing Climate Justice to Urban Neighbourhoods

One of KIN’s most transformative programs is Accelerating Just Climate Transitions in Urban Regions (ACT). This initiative targets the heart of Dutch communities—its neighbourhoods—where the impacts of climate change are felt most acutely. ACT seeks to create fair, tailored climate solutions that are responsive to the specific needs of urban areas.

What sets ACT apart is its commitment to collaboration. The program brings together a diverse range of stakeholders, from residents and housing corporations to local businesses and civic institutions. A key partner in this endeavour is The Hague University of Applied Sciences (THUAS). Leveraging its expertise in applied research, THUAS is helping to turn ambitious sustainability goals into tangible, actionable steps that can be implemented across Dutch communities.

The Role of THUAS in Shaping Sustainable Urban Futures

 By participating in the ACT program, THUAS supports KIN's goal of accelerating the transition toward sustainability. By involving students, THUAS’ hands-on, inclusive approach strengthens the effectiveness of our research methods.

THUAS is connecting its applied research with real-world impact. The university shows that addressing climate challenges isn’t just about technical know-how—it’s about fostering human-centered, collaborative methods that engage and empower local communities. This approach reminds us that true progress is not just about science and data, but about people working together to build a better future.

Transformative Leadership: THUAS at the Forefront of Competence Building

Taking this partnership further, Drs. Rolien Blanken from Centre of Expertise Mission Zero is one of the researchers leading the Transformative Leadership Project, a pioneering initiative aimed at developing, testing, and refining the competencies necessary for just climate transitions. The project is designed to empower both seasoned sustainability professionals and grassroots climate leaders with the skills they need to effect meaningful change.

The project’s central focus is to identify and cultivate the knowledge and skills that leaders must possess to champion climate justice and equity effectively. Specialized training programs are being developed to teach these competencies, fostering a seamless connection between theoretical knowledge and practical application. The goal is to create leaders who can drive just transitions within their communities and inspire others to do the same.

A Vision for the Future

Through the collaborative efforts of THUAS and KIN, the Netherlands is witnessing a model of climate action that is both innovative and inclusive. By prioritizing leadership development and community-focused solutions, they are laying the groundwork for a future where climate resilience is accessible to all. In doing so, they exemplify the power of partnership and the importance of creating pathways for sustainable, equitable change in The Netherlands.

For more information about KIN, please visit their website: hetkin.nl