Three programme lines
We have 3 programme lines and several projects. All projects involve multiple parties working together. Also with residents. We therefore call it a multi helix cooperation. This is a cooperation in which companies, educational organisations, governments, social institutions and citizens join forces. The parties not only put their shoulders to the wheel together. They also take note of what they learn from their cooperation. These experiences and new working methods are actively shared within the projects. As far as we are concerned, this creates a successful community that achieves even better results.
Strong and healthy communities
Health is more than just physical health. The quality of the living environment also plays a role in people's health. These two worlds are now too much separated. And so this programme line puts extra emphasis on matters such as connections between local residents, sustainability in neighbourhoods, exercise, well-being, safety and climate adaptation. It is precisely the residents who are mobilised. Together with them, plans for neighbourhoods are made.
Border-crossing, innovative & circular knowledge economy
This programme line focuses on making the urgency to choose sustainability felt. This is done by raising awareness and commitment and stimulating behavioural change. The circular economy must have a permanent place in our Zuid-Limburg society. That is why the projects within this programme line do not shy away from experiments. And they are fully committed to improving the quality of the environment and strengthening prosperity. Citizens are encouraged to actively participate via, among others, the circular workspaces in Sittard-Geleen and Maastricht.
In addition, this programme line works on the labour market in Zuid-Limburg. There are not only too few people to get all the work done in the region. The level of education does not always match market demand either. The problems include shrinkage, departure of talented young people and an ageing population. Moreover, national borders act as roadblocks. Via various projects, we therefore want to make people - local, (eu)regional and national - aware of the opportunities for both theoretical and practical work in Zuid-Limburg. And we want to captivate, bind and retain talent. The latter in cooperation with Brightlands.
Enhancing unique landscape
Densely populated Zuid-Limburg has a major task to reduce nitrogen, nitrate and CO2 emissions. We also need to improve water quality, biodiversity and health. We want to reduce water nuisance and heat stress and realise Natura 2000 tasks. And as if that weren't enough, we are going to generate renewable energy and reduce tourist pressure. We want to do all this while preserving our unique landscape and paying attention to the viability and vitality of small communities.
