Welcome

Meindert Stolk (deputy of the Province South Holland)

Reuse and repair social enterprises: pioneers of the circular economy and experts in social employment.

Rachel Heijne – Director of BKN

Where are we now? What is the unique position of social enterprises in the circular economy, and what is their role as social employers?
We will present the latest facts and figures (Monitor 2023). What are the latest developments in the sector, and what are the main challenges?

RREUSE: an international network of social enterprises active in reuse, repair and recycling.

Neva Nahtigal – Director of RREUSE

Specialising in the field of reuse, repair, and recycling, the members of the RREUSE network not only provide local and inclusive employment but also foster a strong sense of belonging for the most vulnerable in our societies, making a significant impact on local communities. Where do we stand now and what are our ambitions?

A social circular economy.

Anne-marie Rakhorst – Chair of the Consumer Goods Transition Agenda

What is needed for a thriving circular economy in 2050? What is the role of the social enterprises in this? The circular economy requires a lot of workers in times of tight labour markets. How do we connect social and circular objectives, and how can they reinforce each other on the way to a social circular economy?

Work: so much more than a means of putting food on the table.

Tamara van Ark – Former Dutch Minister of Health and State Secretary for Social Affairs and Employment

Why is work so important? What does this yield for people? But also for society as a whole? How do we connect with the circular work field so that, when we help people on their way to work, we also focus on future work? Tamara will share her expertise to link it to the role of reuse and repair social enterprises as social employers.

Work, welfare and well-being.

Rian Hofma – General Practitioner

Stories about patients’ experiences, particularly within social enterprises, focused on well-being.