How can we make Limburg climate neutral by 2020?Limburg climate policy approach

how can we make Limburg climate neutral

by 2020?

Limburg climate policy approach

climateneutral

Limburg goes

Limburg’s location

Limburg combines the best of Flanders with the opportunities that Europe has to offer. Limburg is in the northeast of Belgium, at the heart of Europe. It borders on the Netherlands, Germany and the Belgian provinces of Flemish Brabant, Ant-werp and Liège. In the east, the river Meuse forms a natural border with Dutch Limburg.Limburg is easily accessible. Three main roads cross the region: the motorways E313 (Antwerp-Liège) and E314 (Brussels/Leuven-Aachen) and the Albert Canal. The public transport network also offers several possibilities.

Facts & FiguresSurface area: 242,231 ha

Provincial capital: HasseltNumber of municipalities: 44

Number of residents: 851,803 – 352 residents/km²(figures from 2012-01-01)

(Source: Federal Public Service Internal Affairs)

OrganisationThe province assists the municipalities and the Flemish and federal govern-ments. It is responsible for the implementation of certain tasks and can rely on its own administration to do so. The provincial government also has the space to develop its own policy for Limburg.The provincial council is the main governing body. The council is composed based on direct elections. The number of councillors is determined by the num-ber of inhabitants. The current council has 75 members. The provincial council may formulate proposals and launch initiatives of provincial interest by way of council decisions and regulations.The provincial executive is responsible for the daily management of the province, prepares the decisions of the provincial council and executes these later. The Limburg provincial executive is composed of the governor-chairman, six com-missioners and the county clerk.The governor is the representative of the federal and regional government, and a major player in provincial policy.The administration ensures that the provincial council’s policy takes shape and that provincial executive decisions can be implemented in practice.

how can we make Limburg climate neutral

by 2020?

Limburg climate policy approach

1. Limburg and the green gold era ...................................15

2. The Limburg climate change study ................................21

3. Climate policy in practice ...............................................29

4. Climate neutrality as a business model ........................63

inhoud

Limburg puts climate change on the map .....................................................7Frank Smeets, Commissioner for the Environment Province of Limburg

Limburg’s efforts from a European perspective ...........................................11Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Council

Limburg’s future ........................................................................................ 13Herman Reynders, Provincial Governor Province of Limburg

1. Limburg and the green gold era ...................................15A changing world ....................................................................................... 15Europe sets clear targets............................................................................. 16The five pillars of the third industrial revolution......................................... 17Limburg in action ....................................................................................... 18Limburg, the greenest province in Flanders ................................................ 19

2. The Limburg climate change study ................................21The definition of climate neutral ................................................................ 21The baseline ...............................................................................................24The reference scenario ...............................................................................24The 2020 scenario ......................................................................................24The visionary scenario: step by step towards a sustainable province ..........27

3. Climate policy in practice ...............................................29The Limburg Climate Parliament ...............................................................30Track 1: The companies ..............................................................................36Track 2: 44 Limburg climate municipalities ............................................... 41Track 3: 850,000 Limburg climate change ambassadors ............................54Track 4: The provincial government sets a good example ...........................59

4. Climate neutrality as a business model ........................63A new start .................................................................................................63Limburg’s head start ..................................................................................64The future ..................................................................................................65

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Limburg puts climate change on the map

Dear reader,

The last three international climate conferences—Copenhagen in 2009, Cancun in 2010 and Durban in 2011—did little to improve the situation. The problem of global warming and its disastrous consequences for a large proportion of the world population—especially the very poorest—has been scientifically proven and requires immediate action. But world leaders have so far failed to conclude a global agreement. They seem stuck in power structures and their oil-driven economic model.According to the latest aims set in Durban, world leaders will seek to agree on measures that will enter into force from 2020 to keep the average rise in tempera-ture below the critical level of 2°C. Perhaps it will already be too late by then. The current average increase is already at 1.5°C. As we continue to emit greenhouse gases en masse—most of which cannot be broken down by nature—it will not be easy to reverse this trend.The solution will therefore have to be a bottom-up, rather than a top-down one. Instead of waiting for international agreements to be imposed from above, we must implement solutions at both the regional and local level. All the great re-volutions of the past have emerged from social movements. This is why we are launching an appeal to all 850,000 Limburgers to make their lifestyles more en-vironmentally conscious. And to help make changes in production and consump-tion patterns. Because if you want to change the world, you’re better off starting with yourself.This is why we in Limburg have put together a comprehensive ambition: ‘Lim-burg goes climate neutral’. This publication goes on to explain how Limburg has approached this ambitious policy.In the first chapter, we outline international and European approaches in terms of climate and energy.In the second chapter, we summarise the key figures from the Limburg climate study ‘Total CO2 Action Plan’ (TACO2).

4HamCogen Biomass Plant - Ham © Robin Reynders, province of Limburg

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how can we make limburg climate neutral by 2020? | limburg climate policy approach

The Limburg Climate Parliament is discussed in the third chapter. This unique structure consists of employer and worker organisations, environmental organi-sations, socio-cultural organisations, research institutes and Limburg ETS com-panies. These are companies that account for a large share of CO2 emissions and are therefore included in the European emissions trading system (or ETS for short).

Following this, the Limburg four-track approach is discussed.1. 1. Limburg companies can count on the impact of cleantech. Cleantechplat-

form.be and the new Limburg I-Cleantech Antenna support business initia-tives aimed at attaining climate neutrality. Eleven thematic do tanks are cur-rently expanding on the TACO2 study and formulating project ideas suppor-ted by the companies. Thanks to the Limburg Reconversion Society (LRM1) and the Limburg Climate Fund, Limburg has the leverage to make capital available to companies and climate projects. Energyville in Genk and Green-Ville in Houthalen-Helchteren make Limburg a Flemish and European region of knowledge in terms of energy and cleantech.

2. 2. All 44 municipalities in Limburg agreed to a dual commitment in 2011. First they confirmed (or reconfirmed) their participation in the European ‘Co-venant of Mayors’. And as well as this, each municipality is working towards the provincial climate change aims. In 2012, the municipalities drafted their climate plan. This will result in municipal activities and investments in cli-mate and energy.

3. 3. We want to convince all 850,000 Limburgers of the benefits of energy-effi-cient heating with the new campaign ‘Warm Limburg’ (2012-2014). This cam-paign is the successor of ‘Every day is SUNday’ (2007-2008) and ‘Limburg In-sulates’ (2009-2011). The Infrax figures prove the success of both campaigns. We aim to continue this positive trend with the ‘Warm Limburg’ campaign.

4. 4. The provincial government is setting a good example in 2012 by implemen-ting several large solar projects in its own buildings. Electric service vehicles are being put into use and, in 2012, the province is dedicating five million euros to making state buildings more energy-efficient.

In the fourth and final section, we look to the future. The first bricks of the path to climate neutrality have been laid. Limburg has everything it takes to play a sig-nificant role in a global transition to a sustainable economy based on renewable energy.As commissioner for the environment, I would like to thank all the organisations and companies who have participated in the climate change parliament as well as the do tanks, all Limburg municipalities and all employees at the Department of

1. Limburgse Reconversie Maatschappij

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the Environment and Nature and other relevant provincial departments for their cooperation. The design and implementation of an ambitious policy is only pos-sible if everyone cooperates.Finally I would like to thank all Limburgers for their support and all the energy-efficient investments that have already been made and that will be made in the future. Together we can put climate change on the map. In our first publication, I spoke about our unique Limburg feeling. We should cherish that feeling, because it is the key to our success!Happy reading.

Frank SmeetsCommissioner for the EnvironmentProvince of Limburg

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Limburg’s efforts from a European perspective

Specific climate and energy objectives are included in Europe’s 2020 growth stra-tegy: 20% renewables, 20% more energy efficiency and 20% less CO2 emissions. The province of Limburg is setting a good example with its ‘Limburg goes climate neutral in 2020’ campaign. By focusing on growth sectors like renewable energy, energy-neutral and energy-positive buildings and neighbourhoods, methods for energy storage, smart energy networks and electronic transport, Limburg is ma-king brave choices. The fact that all 44 cities and municipalities in Limburg have signed the European Covenant of Mayors is a unique achievement. In the 2050 Roadmap, the European Union has set a path towards low carbon economy. I am very pleased that a Belgian province has contributed to this. Limburg has chosen for the future and is doing this in collaboration with local businesses, research institutions, civil society and the Limburgers themselves. This should be sup-ported.

Herman Van RompuyPresident of the European Council

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Limburg’s future

Dear reader, Limburg has always been a province which is strongly committed to nature, ecology and environmental quality. The ambitions linked to ‘Limburg goes climate neutral in 2020’ means that our province wants to ensure that this region continues to be a nice place to live in the future.The transition to a society which keeps the use of fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions to a minimum is ultimately inevitable. Given this, it is in our nature in Limburg to aim to be a leader and top of the class in achieving this. This is already evident from the strong involvement of organisations and companies in the Climate Parliament, in which all sections of society are represented and all members confirmed their commitment to contribute to Limburg being climate neutral by 2020.Working to achieve climate neutrality by 2020 means that we will soon all have to learn to approach certain things in a different way. In return for this effort, we will get a region which is even nicer and healthier to live in. The pursuit of climate neutrality offers numerous economic opportunities to businesses because they can be leaders in clean technology and the innovation that leads to a sustainable economy.Our transition to climate neutrality doesn’t just send a signal to our province, country and the European Union, but also to the rest of the world. As a relatively small region, these ambitious efforts put us in a positive light, and focus on our potential. Entering into a partnership with the Chinese Jiangsu province—the heartland of green technology in China—for example, is as a direct result of our climate change plan. I am very proud and honoured that we will be presenting the Chinese version of this publication at the China International Import Expo in Jiangsu, an exhibition focusing on environmentally friendly technology. The interest from China strengthens my belief that our transition to climate neutra-lity will contribute to attracting new CO2-neutral businesses to our province, and creating new jobs. We are particularly targeting businesses which manage to reconcile ecology with economy. Establishing themselves in a climate-neutral region is a unique asset and strong mark of quality for progressive companies like these.

Herman ReyndersProvincial Governor Province of Limburg

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1. Limburg and the green gold era‘We are on the verge of a new energy era. During the next decades, our reserves will be exhausted. Governments of oil-producing and -consuming countries must prepare for it now.’ Fatih Birol, Chief Economist at the International Energy Agency

The first industrial revolution with its insatiable appetite for fossil fuels trans-formed Limburg from an agricultural region into a province with a number of important industrial centres. Coal or black gold, as it was called at the time, me-ant an impressive increase in employment and prosperity in the region between 1917 and 1992. Now that the last coal mine closed down twenty years ago and reconversion has been made a reality, Limburg is taking a pioneering role in the era of green gold. The new industrial revolution is all about sustainability, reuse of resources and minimal environmental impact. Limburg is rapidly preparing for a future without fossil fuels, including renewable energy, climate-friendly agriculture and industry, energy-efficient buildings and transport with low CO2 emissions. By making quick work of these necessary adjustments, the province will take the lead and its economy and the health of its inhabitants will benefit.

A changing world

A worldwide transition is underway which aims to both make industrial proces-ses, agricultural techniques, energy production, heating and transportation more energy efficient, as well as to encourage all these sectors to gradually switch to re-newable energy sources. This is not only necessary because emissions from fossil fuel combustion seriously threaten the climate, but also because oil is becoming increasingly expensive. We must act quickly, because the oil, coal and natural gas reserves are finite. Soon rather than late, we will need to be able to live in a world without fossil fuels. The province of Limburg aims to be one of the first to be completely ready for this.

Insulation materials © Robin Reynders, province of Limburg

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In 1997, in Kyoto, Japan, 37 countries committed to reducing their greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 5.2% between 1998 and 2002 and to do so in re-lation to their 1990 emissions. In the end, 55 countries undertook to reduce their emissions of CO2 (carbon dioxide), CH4 (methane), N2O (laughing gas or nitrous oxide) and fluorinated gases. CO2 is largely produced by human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and industrial processes. More than half of the methane on earth comes from human activities such as agriculture, animal husbandry and processing household waste. Laughing gas is mainly produced in agriculture, chemistry and the combustion of fossil fuels. Finally, fluorinated hydrocarbons are used primarily as a coolant, as a solvent and in the production of aluminium.The Climate Conference in Durban 2011 proposed an extension of the Kyoto Pro-tocol. Awareness is increasing globally that it is more necessary than ever to curb greenhouse gas emissions and to invest in clean technology. It was decided in Durban that a binding global climate plan should be made in 2015 which would come into force in 2020. The People’s Republic of China also included some green highlights in its 2011 five-year plan.

Europe sets clear targets

Along with all other European countries, Belgium has committed to further redu-cing its greenhouse gas emissions. Initially, Europe aimed to reduce emissions by 20% by 2020 as compared to 1990, combined with an increase of 20% of renew-able energy in energy supply and 20% more energy efficiency. Meanwhile there have been calls to cut back emissions by more than 20% by 2020.The European Commission has now set out these aims and ambitions in its Roadmap for moving to a competitive low-carbon economy in 2050. This analy-sis by the European Commission shows that a 25% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions would be cost-efficient by 2020. This increases up to a 40% reduction in emissions by 2030, 60% by 2040 and 80% by 2050. This gives rise to the fol-lowing picture for all sectors combined.

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© Roadmap 2050 - European Union

The 2050 Roadmap also teaches us what this transition to a low carbon economy could mean in terms of costs, benefits and jobs. The EU is counting on an ad-ditional annual investment of 270 billion, funded by industry and governments. The resulting increased energy efficiency and a shift to low-carbon energy sour-ces will produce a saving of between 175 and 320 billion euros per year over a period of 40 years. This transition will give rise to a great revival in employment opportunities, not only in the renewable energy sector but also in construction, for example. To illustrate: during the last five years, employment in the rene-wable energy sector in the EU has more than doubled from 230,000 to 550,000 jobs. By 2020, the choice for a low carbon economy with a 25% reduction in emis-sions could lead to 1.5 million new jobs. After all, reducing emissions leads to an increase of public transport use and a shift to electric transportation, as well as improving air quality and thus public health.

The five pillars of the third industrial revolution

The visionary author Jeremy Rifkin, adviser to the EU and German Chancellor Angela Merkel among others, is convinced that we are now at the beginning of a new era: the third industrial revolution. He imagines a world in which internet technology and renewable energy go hand in hand and where millions of homes, offices and factories produce their own green energy and share this with each other in an energy internet, just like people today share knowledge and are crea-

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tive on the worldwide web. For Rifkin, the third industrial revolution is based on five pillars, which all need to be present to make a society based on renewable energy possible. To do this, we need to (1) make the transition to renewable ener-gy, (2) convert our buildings to renewable energy plants, (3) ensure the storage of this renewable energy in the form of hydrogen, batteries and other possible storage methods, (4) manage and distribute this energy through smart grids and (5) transition to electric or fuel cell powered vehicles.

Smartgrids © Roadmap 2050 - European Union

Limburg in action

In Limburg, the transition from central energy systems (oil, gas, coal, nuclear) to decentralised energy (solar, wind, biomass, geothermal, ...) is already visi-ble. At the end of 2011, Limburg had 23 wind turbines with an average power of 3.5 MW, and over 31,000 solar panel installations with a combined capacity of 290,000 kWp at its disposal. Limburg is assuming the installation of 150 poten-tial wind turbines on its territory, of which 86 (on 31 December 2011) have already been given an environmental permit. There are also large biomass projects in the pipeline which could provide for a CO2 reduction of over 2 million tonnes during the next few years.In accordance with the European framework, the Flemish climate policy for 2013-2020 chose a combination of mitigation (reducing emissions) and adaptation (re-ducing the negative effects of climate change and harnessing its positive effects). From 2013 onwards, Flanders may be able to use the profits from auctioning

(1)

(5)(4)

(3)

(2)

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emission rights to finance the Flemish climate policy. The province of Limburg is making full use of the tools provided by other policy levels. But the provincial government has always been a pioneer in the field of the environment and nature.

Limburg, the greenest province in Flanders

Limburg is the greenest province in Flanders. With more than 50 000 hectares of forests, it stands head and shoulders above the rest of Flanders. Limburg is not only home to unique forests, wildlife and landscapes, the range of species living there is also striking. Ninety per cent of typical Flemish animals and plants are to be found in Limburg and many rare and endangered species are exclusive to Limburg. This is why Limburg was a partner for Countdown 2010, a Euro-pean initiative to stop the loss of biodiversity by 2010. In 2008, spurred on by the provincial government, all Limburg municipalities will become partners. In the coming years, the province will remain committed to biodiversity, for example by way of its participation in the UN initiative ‘Decade of Biodiversity 2011-2020’ and the Limburg species project.The concern for biodiversity goes hand in hand with a focus on the climate. A climate with rising temperatures will have additional impacts on biodiversity. Conversely, nature is needed to temper the impact of climate change such as floods and droughts. Natural systems can store CO2. A natural floodplain pre-vents downstream residential areas from flooding. Eleven Major Landscape Units (GLEs2) chosen based on their distinctive landscape features, provide the basis for targeted actions regarding biodiversity and landscape. By using nature connections between green core areas, the province would like to improve the resilience of species and their habitats.The conservation of biodiversity and the fight against global warming fits with the efforts to create a more sustainable Limburg, a place where future genera-tions will also enjoy living, without other areas in the world having to suffer. The interests of people, the environment and the economy need to be balanced with each other as well as possible, and climate change targets should be given a place in all policy areas and sectors of the province.

Municipalities adopt Limburg species

The province of Limburg is very rich in species: over 90% of Flemish plant and animal species can be found there. Some are doing well, others are having a har-der time. Just as in the rest of the world, an increasing number of plant and animal species have an ever smaller area to live on. Since 2006, the Limburg pro-ject ‘Municipalities adopt Limburg species’ has attempted to do something about

2. Grote Landschappelijke Eenheden

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this. First, the province mapped out which endangered species were typical of each municipality. All 44 municipalities in Limburg adopted one of these species and promised to give them extra attention. Meanwhile, all municipalities with environmental associations have developed specific action plans for each spe-cies. Municipalities have made the changeover to ecological verge management, hedgerows have been constructed and various habitats have been taken care of. Many species have shown an improvement. Several other Flemish provinces have followed Limburg’s example.

A strong climate policy—as part of sustainable development—is an open one. Issues such as biodiversity, commodities, materials, water, ... and social effects should be taken into consideration in all decisions.Global warming is a global problem which Limburg’s population of 850,000 inhabitants and its economic and social developments contribute to. For years, Limburg has been trying to reduce this impact by focusing on sustainable buil-ding and lifestyles, rational energy use, sustainable water management, the in-stallation of renewable energy production, with successful campaigns like ‘Every day is SUNday’ (regarding solar energy), ‘Limburg Insulates’ and the recently launched ‘Warm Limburg’ (regarding sustainable heating systems).On 18 June 2009, the Limburg Provincial Council committed to making the pro-vince climate neutral by 2020. The Board did not just do that for the benefit of the climate, the environment and biodiversity, but also because these efforts could potentially offer unique opportunities for the economy and for Limburg’s com-petitiveness. The time had come for new and more extensive steps to be taken.A sounder scientific basis was needed in order to be able to implement an ef-ficient and effective climate change policy. This is why a study—which you can read more about in the next chapter—was carried out in 2010.

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2. The Limburg climate change study‘It is technically possible to be CO2 neutral by 2020.’ Study consortium led by VITO, TACO2 study.

When the province of Limburg announced its aim to be climate neutral by 2020, this was done under the name TACO2 (Total CO2 Action Plan). The idea met with some scepticism. That is perfectly understandable. The province of Limburg does have a long tradition of successful energy campaigns to build on, but raising the bar so high compared to the rest of the world is something else entirely. Even so, the provincial government believes that setting a target date in the near future is necessary in order to start changing now and to make progress which will deliver benefits in all areas.Before we turn to the Limburg approach in the next chapter, it is important to first define the concept of climate neutrality more precisely. The province com-missioned a scientific study to ascertain the feasibility of its ambitious objectives. Under the leadership of VITO3, the Flemish Institute for Technological Research, a consortium carried out research into whether it would be feasible to achieve climate neutrality by 2020. The consortium described how Limburg could best go about tackling the transition and what pitfalls would need to be avoided.

The definition of climate neutral

The province of Limburg aims to tackle the emission of all major greenhouse gas-es and is therefore also including CO2, methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) in its figures. Hence the choice for the more general term ‘climate neutral’ rather than the more specific ‘CO2-neutral’. The figures are expressed in CO2-equival-lents.Limburg is committed to climate neutrality on its own territory, in other words achieving a balance between the amount of greenhouse gases emitted in Limburg and what is absorbed by nature and the soil. The board has therefore decided

3. Vlaamse Instelling voor Technologisch Onderzoek

The Energy Harvester harvesting short rotation wood (biomass) with willow in the doublerow planting system. © Inagro vzw

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not to engage in offset projects elsewhere in the world. It is thus facing its own responsibility and investing in local solutions.

The baseline

VITO used the international Greenhouse Gas Protocol methodology to esti-mate the CO2 emissions and uptake. Limburg not only takes into account the emissions from all activities within the province itself (‘scope 1’ emissions), but also emissions outside Limburg associated with imported electricity and steam (‘scope 2’ emissions). Emissions from outside Limburg caused by the produc-tion and delivery of goods and services that are used or implemented in Limburg (‘scope 3’ emissions) are not calculated, in accordance with the protocol. Not only because they complicate the calculations considerably, but also because they increase the risk of duplicate calculations. 2008 figures are used as the baseline. This was the most recent year for which reliable data were available.Using the baseline, the research team extrapolated three possible scenarios. The first is a so-called reference scenario, which assumes the realisation of the ob-jectives of the current climate aims at the Flemish, Belgian and European levels. A second scenario examines whether and how Limburg could be made climate neutral by 2020. The third scenario looks at the longer term transition and takes 2050 as the ultimate goal.

The reference scenario

The implementation of the Flemish, Belgian and European policy decisions by 2020 includes a fairly comprehensive set of measures in various policy areas. The research team concluded that the implementation of these in Limburg, would lead inter alia to a noticeable increase in the share of wind and solar energy used in the energy mix. Freight—and later passenger—transport would also be subject to congestion pricing. The insulation standard for new housing would be tighten-ed, lighting made more economical and certain intensive agricultural activities would decline. Despite these measures, this scenario would only lead to Limburg reducing greenhouse gases by 5% compared to the baseline. Suffice it to say that it would not be possible to make Limburg climate neutral by 2020.

The 2020 scenario

This scenario is the most ambitious. It includes some fifty measures which serve to estimate the CO2 savings and social costs. The good news is that it is theoretically possible to make Limburg climate neutral by 2020. The less good

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news is that the options to achieve that goal are rather limited. After all, the timing of 2020 limits the range of possibilities to technology which is availa-ble today. All measures from the 2020 scenario result in an overall balance between the emission and absorption of greenhouse gas emissions and help make Limburg climate neutral by 2020. A complete overview of this is to be found in the publication ‘How to make Limburg climate neutral by 2020. Results of the TACO2 study’ and the English summary which can be downloaded from www.limburgklimaatneutraal.be.

Results of the baseline, reference scenario and the 2020-scenario

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The marginal cost curve for this scenario shows that the measures to reduce the last tonnes of CO2 would be very expensive, but also that a series of financial measures would be interesting because they are cost-effective or even generate revenue. This allows a cost-neutral set to be put together: Limburg could save 3 of the 10 million tonnes of CO2 at no extra cost at the provincial level. If existing support measures used by higher authorities are taken into account, then this could even reach 5 million tonnes of CO2.

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Marginal cost curve for the 2020-scenario. Left: measures with negative costs (or revenues). Right: measures with high costs. In between: measures with a marginal cost per tonne of CO2 between ¤ 0 and ¤ 100. The implementation of all measures is required to achieve climate neutrality.

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payable measures charged to a very high cost per tonne of CO2 (over € 100)

payable measures charged to a cost per tonne of CO2 between € 0 and€ 100

profitable measures (no regret)

Besides the high cost of the last measures, there are significant downsides to the 2020 scenario. This scenario makes Limburg too dependent on partly external biomass which may not always be sustainable. It is also unfortunate that the 2020 scenario’s short time horizon may not take account of promising innovati-ons like geothermal energy (terrestrial heat) and carbon capture, also known as CCS (carbon capture and storage). After all, local resistance to the siting of wind turbines and biogas plants—which can be high at times—teaches us that just because something is technologically feasible, this does not mean that it actually gets realised in practice. The lack of a market response, social resistance and ad-ministrative issues such as licensing may inhibit certain developments.The study consortium was therefore requested to draw up a visionary roadmap alongside the 2020 scenario that looks further into the future and takes the above concerns into account.

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The visionary scenario: step by step towards a sustainable province

Like many international climate plans, the visionary scenario takes 2050 as the end date, with the following interim targets:1. Limburg aims to reduce emissions by 50% by 2020.2. Limburg aims to achieve optimal renewable energy generation and maximum

energy efficiency by 2050.3. Limburg is developing an overarching strategy to grow into a sustainable,

resilient and able-bodied province.

The 2050 plan initially makes full use of the momentum generated by vision- 2020. This involves a selection of desirable measures from the 2020 scenario being used to achieve a significant reduction in emissions by 2020. Limburg does not just develop and implement next generation technologies for energy produc-tion, but also manages the transition to a resilient, energy-efficient and sustain-able province. The latter movement does require time to bear fruit, but also offers the most prosperous perspective for Limburg.

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The visionary reduction scenario with a short-term perspective by 2020 (Target 1) and a long-term perspective by 2050 (Targets 2 and 3)

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profitable measures (no regret), optimum self-sufficiency and energy efficiency, investments in promising long-term measures

small geothermal plants, sustainable biomass, smartgrids, ...

large geothermal plants, microbial fuel cells, hydrogen, radical breakthroughs in wind and solar energy, ...

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3. Climate policy in practice‘I have a lot of admiration for the province of Limburg’s ambition which matches that of our country to be climate neutral by 2020. This is an act of solidarity that we as Maldivians value highly, precisely because it is a matter of life and death for us.’ Ali Hussain Didi, Ambassador of the Maldives to Belgium.

Making Limburg climate neutral is only possible if the majority of Limburgers, businesses and municipalities are convinced of the necessity of this energy and behavioural revolution. Moreover, the timely and proper steps must be taken and all parties involved must support and help each other in these efforts. The pro-vincial government aims to act as both the director and facilitator of this process, as well as setting a good example itself.The official launch of ‘Limburg goes climate neutral’ took place on 20 May 2011 at the first session of the Climate Parliament, the binding element in the four-pronged approach towards climate neutrality. In this chapter, we elaborate on what the Climate Parliament is, precisely what the four tracks consist of, what has already been achieved and what the future may bring.

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Limburg Climate Parliament

Climate neutral Limburg

Limburg companies

44Municipalities

850 000Limburgers

Provincialgovernment

The Limburg Climate Parliament

Involvement from society will make or break ‘Limburg goes climate neutral’. From the earliest study stage, all aims were presented to a focus group composed of key Limburg organisations that had ample opportunity to follow the proceedings, ask questions and make suggestions. To maintain, and even strengthen, this involve-ment, a forum was set up following the completion of the study in which Limburg organisations and companies were able to make their voices heard. This forum is the Climate Parliament, a broad arena of the most diverse organisations and companies. The Climate Parliament will meet twice a year, examine the state of affairs in terms of climate policy, and make recommendations and adjustments where necessary. The members of the Climate Parliament sit in it voluntarily and free of charge, but certainly not without obligation. They represent a sample of Limburg. Through their own operations and/or members, they can make a diffe-rence in terms of climate neutrality. The organisations involved can be classified into seven groups. Specifically, it includes (in alphabetical order):• Limburg ETS-companies: Aperam Stainless Belgium nv, Borealis Polymers

nv, Celanese nv, DOW Belgium bvba, DSM Specialty Compound nv, E.ON Benelux, EMGO nv, Farm Frites Belgium nv, Ford Werke GMBH, Ineos Chlo-rVinyls, Keramo Steinzeug nv, NITTO Europe nv, Norbord nv, Nyrstar Bel-gium, Pittsburgh Corning Europe nv, SAPPI Lanaken nv, Scana Noliko Groep, Sibelco nv, Tess Group, Vandersanden Steenfabrieken nv, Visko Teepak nv;

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• Business groups: General Farmers’ Syndicate, Limburg Farmers’ Union, Limburg Construction Union, Limburg Confederation of Construction, As-sociation of Architects, UNIZO4 Limburg, VKW5 Limburg, VOKA Chamber of Commerce Limburg non-profit association;

• Trade unions: ABVV6 Limburg, ACLVB7 Limburg, ACV8 Limburg;• Public companies: De Lijn Limburg, Infrax, Limburg Tourism Federation,

Limburg Reconversion Society (LRM), Limburg.net, NMBS9, NUHMA, Pro-vincial Development Agency (POM10) Limburg;

• Research institutions: Limburg Catholic University College, Provincial Col-lege of Limburg, University of Hasselt, XIOS11 University College Limburg;

• Civil society organisations: ACW12, Limburg, Diocese of Limburg, the Fede-ration for a Better Environment, Chiro Limburg13, Limburg Christian Trade Unions, Limburg Welfare, Diyanet Belgium14, Limburg Family Union, Belgian Islamic Federation, Belgian Islamic Association, KAV15 Limburg, KSJ Lim-burg16, KVLV17 Limburg, KWB18 Limburg, Limburg Landscape, Natuurpunt Limburg (Limburg Nature Point), OKRA Limburg19, S-plus, Limburg Scouts and Guides, Liberal Trade Unions Federation, Flemish Neutral Health Insu-rance Fund, Liberal Limburg;

• Advisory boards: Limburg Health Consultations, Limburg Integration Coun-cil, Limburg Youth Council, Provincial Environment and Nature Council, Provincial Council for Cultural Policy, Provincial Council for Senior Citizens, Provincial Sports Council.

First session of the Limburg Climate ParliamentThe Ambassador of the Maldives to Belgium, Ali Hussain Didi, put the work being done in Limburg into a global perspective during his speech at the first session of the Climate Parliament on 20 May 2011. The Maldives, a country in the Indian Ocean consisting of some 1200 small islands which are no more than 2.4 m above sea level, is in danger of being partially submerged under water due to global warming and rising sea levels. The Republic of the Maldives has also

4. Unie van Zelfstandige Ondernemers – Union of Independent Entrepreneurs

5. Verbond van Katholieke Werkgevers – Association of Catholic Employers

6. Algemeen Belgisch Vakverbond - Belgian General Trade Union

7. Algemene Centrale der Liberale Vakbonden van België - General Federation of Liberal Trade Unions of Belgium

8. Algemeen Christelijk Vakverbond - General Christian Trade Union

9. Belgian National Railway Company

10. Provinciale Ontwikkelingsmaatschappij

11. eXpertisecentrum voor Industrie, Onderwijs en Samenleving - Centre of expertise for industry, education and society

12. Algemeen Christelijk Werknemersverbond – Confederation of Christian Workers

13. A youth movement14. Turkish Bureau of Religious

Affairs

15. Kristelijke Arbeidersvrouwenbeweging – Christian Women Workers’ Movement

16. Katholieke Studerende Jeugd – Catholic Studying Youth

17. Vrouwen met vaart – Women with momentum

18. Kristelijke Werknemers Beweging - Christian Workers’ Movement

19. Organisation for the Over 55s

First sitting of the Limburg Climate Parliament, Hasselt - 20 May 2011. © Robin Reynders, provincie of Limburg

Ali Hussain Didi, the Ambassador of the Maldives to Belgium, put the Limburg climate aims into a global perspective. © Robin Reynders, provincie of Limburg

Commissioner Frank Smeets, Ambassador Ali Hussain Didi, and the members of the Climate Parliament sign the Limburg climate aims. © Robin Reynders, provincie of Limburg

© Concentra - HBVL Krant, 29 oktober 2011 , blz. 28

Limburg gaat Klimaatneutraal

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Limburg gaat Klimaatneutraal en zoekt

850.000 klimaatambassadeurs. Want elk initiatief telt.

Neemt u ook een initiatief? Laat het dan weten:

Members of the Climate Parliament present their initiatives.

© Concentra - HBVL Krant, 29 oktober 2011 , blz. 28

Limburg gaat Klimaatneutraal

3

Limburg gaat Klimaatneutraal en zoekt

850.000 klimaatambassadeurs. Want elk initiatief telt.

Neemt u ook een initiatief? Laat het dan weten:

36


committed to being climate neutral by 2020. It seeks to achieve this by focusing on renewable energy, but—as a small country—it remains dependent on the ef-forts of other countries to stop climate change. The larger global picture reminds us that striving for climate neutrality is not only beneficial to Limburg, Flanders, Belgium and Europe but is also desperately needed for the world as a whole.A transition such as this to a new economy doesn’t just happen overnight. It requires a change in mindset, which is initiated by sharing information, raising awareness and carrying out practical experiments. Thus, small-scale innovations are tested and evaluated on their desirability, and professionals and installers get to know new techniques which they then learn to apply on a larger scale.

Second session of the Limburg Climate ParliamentBased on this need for practical experiments, members were asked during the second session of the Climate Parliament on 26 October 2011, to publicly present a number of initiatives which they have undertaken. The result was no less than ninety initiatives, from installing solar panels, drawing up mobility plans, inves-ting in sustainable buildings, heat recovery and other energy-saving measures.

Third session of the Limburg climate change parliamentThe next Climate Parliament focuses on cleantech. And, as described below, Lim-burg will increasingly present itself as a region of knowledge in the future in the field of cleantech and energy.

Below we elaborate on the four tracks of the Limburg climate policy: the compa-nies, the municipalities, the Limburgers and the provincial government.

Track 1: The companies

The provincial government actively involves Limburg companies in its climate policy. Communication with the ETS companies happens in several ways, inclu-ding through the Climate Parliament. But of course, all companies in Limburg can seek advice at the cleantech unit.

Cleantech in LimburgCleantech literally means ‘clean technology’. Stimulated by regulations and their own commitment to sustainability, all progressive companies are working to re-duce the amount of waste they produce—including by closing material loops, the sustainable use of energy and the avoidance of harmful substances in production and in their finished products.

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The Cleantech Platform is a platform coordinated by the University of Hasselt, the Province of Limburg, and the Provincial Development Agency (POM) Lim-burg. The goal is to strengthen and expand cleantech initiatives in Limburg and the rest of Flanders.

The substantive work carried out on the Cleantech Platform takes place in ele-ven do tanks. They are working around a specific theme, populated by business people, investors, trade associations and other associations, research institutes and government departments. Each do tank works on the basis of the scientific findings from the climate study and creates project proposals after carrying out consultations. The focus is on the combination of economic value and environ-mental benefits, with particular attention being given to initiatives that make a significant contribution to Limburg’s climate change objectives.

Do TankBiomass

Do TankIndustrial estates

Do TankRenewable energy

Do TankSustainable building

Do TankETS-companies

Do TankLogistics

Do TankAgriculture

Do TankThe use of materials

Do TankNature

Do TankMobility

Do TankUnderground

think tank

Cleantech is becoming more visible through the establishment of the non-profit association I-Cleantech Flanders and its Limburg division, Limburg I-Cleantech Antenna. I-Cleantech Flanders will be responsible for the streamlining and coor-dination of all cleantech initiatives in Flanders. The international promotion of Flanders as a cleantech region falls under its remit. Limburg I-Cleantech An-tenna is responsible for the development of ideas from the do tanks into viable projects. The ideas are financially, technically and legally screened. I-Cleantech Flanders and Limburg I-Cleantech Antenna are based in GreenVille (Houthalen-Helchteren).

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Of course, business groups from the Climate Parliament can also develop clean-tech initiatives. VOKA - Chamber of Commerce Limburg, for instance, has intro-duced the ‘Limburg Charter of the Environment and Sustainable Enterprise’. In 2011, the twelve participating companies reduced their CO2 emissions by 16,150 tonnes. Some of the savings this led to included 1,950 MWh of electricity, 675 MWh of gas, 85,000 litres of oil, 110,000 litres of diesel and 1.7 million km of road transport. In 2012, 21 new companies started taking part. Other business organi-sations such as VKW Limburg, UNIZO Limburg, Limburg Farmers’ Union, Lim-burg Construction Union and the Limburg Confederation of Construction have also undertaken concrete actions.

GreenVille: A unique Cleantech service centre

© HUB

The former mining building in Houthalen-Helchteren has been converted into GreenVille, Centre of Cleantech. Greenville will play the role of Flanders’ and Limburg’s cleantech service centre. The content focuses on the Cleantech sector recycling centre, new materials and the underground. There will be 150 people working there once full capacity has been reached. The first inhabitants of Green-Ville are the staff of I-Cleantech Flanders and Limburg I-Cleantech Antenna. To-gether with EnergyVille, BioVille and the Hasselt Research Campus, GreenVille will play an important role in the development of Limburg into a European clean-tech region.

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Reduce CO2 by 20% by 2014?When a large company takes an important step and is encouraged and suppor-ted by the provincial and higher authorities to do so, then giant steps can be taken within a short period of time. This is evidenced by the plan to make Lan-gerlo power plant (Genk) climate neutral. The electricity producer E.ON’s coal power plant (556 MW) is currently responsible for approximately 20% of total CO2 emissions in Limburg. Switching to biomass would make this plant climate neutral immediately, because then the plant would emit the same amount of CO2 as that which the biomass has absorbed during its growth process. Discussions between E.ON and the Flemish government regarding a regulatory framework are due to be rounded off by summer 2012. ‘If that process leads to sufficient sup-port, then a reconversion will be achievable from 2014,’ says Michel Groeneveld, Commercial Project Manager at E.ON Benelux.

The energy producer would invest around 100 million euros to adapt the cen-tre for the combustion of biomass. ‘After the conversion, the plant will be fired with wood pellets, a residue from the wood and paper industry,’ says Groene-veld. ‘The large-scale production of these pellets is situated mostly in North and South America, but the transport is done using large ships. In the short term, it is not possible to bring these pellets onto the local market because there is a very limited availability of pure residual wood here. We are therefore forced to look outside Europe, though Russia and the Baltic States might offer a solution in the future.’‘Transport by ship is not completely climate neutral, but the impact is relatively limited,’ Michel Groeneveld notes. ‘Transporting pellets from the USA or Canada by ship is about ten times more efficient in terms of CO2 emissions than trans-port by truck in Europe. Moreover, the CO2 impact of sea transport is deducted during the calculation of green energy certificates.’

Groeneveld continues: ‘The conversion to a biomass plant means we can ensure the employment of approximately 125 colleagues at the plant, a larger number of these are suppliers and a large number are temporarily employed during the conversion phase. This is by no means unimportant in these economically tur-bulent times.’Along with the conversion from a coal to biomass power plant, E.ON is consi-dering the provision of ‘green heat’—(residual) heat from the production pro-cess—to large-scale consumers and potentially to some areas of Genk. ‘The heat network would initially deliver heat to Ford Werke GMBH Genk, other industrial customers in Genk-Zuid, and East Limburg Hospital,’ says Groeneveld. ‘Residen-tial customers are also among the possibilities, but that would be mainly newly

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built or renovated areas where the infrastructure is to be adapted to the supply of heat. A feasibility study is currently being carried out on these projects. “

You may wonder whether there will still be a need for a large-scale biomass plant in Genk after 2025, in a future that may be will be devoted to more decentralised energy production. ‘Certain parts of the plant, such as the turbine and boiler, date from the late seventies,’ Groeneveld explains. ‘We estimate the technical lifetime of the current plant at around 12 to 13 years, following some adjustments—so un-til approximately 2025. What will come after that is pure conjecture for the time being. E.ON believes strongly in long-term decentralised energy production, but is also convinced that centralised energy generation will continue to be necessary to promote the security of supply and affordability of electricity. With its strategic location, the Langerlo site is ideally suited to a continued role in energy supply, even after 2025.’

Investing in a green economyThe transition to a clean, sustainable economy is a great opportunity for creating new jobs, generating profits and attracting new investments, as evidenced by the Limburg Reconversion Society (LRM) on a daily basis. LRM is a profit-driven in-vestment company with shares in both SMEs and large enterprises. It specialises in the technology sectors of ICT & Media, life sciences and cleantech & energy. Between 2009 and 2011, LRM invested 53 million in the Limburg cleantech sec-tor, accounting for about a quarter of its total investment during that period.‘Globally speaking, cleantech is a sector with enormous future potential,’ says Roeland Engelen, Head of Cleantech & Energy at LRM. ‘The need is there, the social support also. This is why LRM has had a specific investment focus on this industry for some years.’The Department of Energy & Cleantech rests on three pillars: investing in innova-tive companies and renewable energy processes, the realisation of sector-specific real estate, and attracting foreign companies. ‘The unique thing about LRM is the coupled supply of both capital and infrastructure,’ says Roeland Engelen. ‘LRM is participating actively within its domain of expertise in the development of a Limburg incubator network. This is why we are establishing the GreenVille-incubation centre in Houthalen-Helchteren with a focus on the management of materials and recycling. We are developing the EnergyVille project on the former mine site at Waterschei (Genk). This will eventually accommodate two hundred researchers from KULeuven (the Catholic University of Leuven), VITO and the International Management Education Consultancy (IMEC). These three renow-ned Flemish research institutes have joined forces to carry out research into re-

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newable energy and the use of smartgrids. Such initiatives are crucial in order to put Limburg on the European map.’

The Limburg Climate Fund

Anyone can invest in and reap the benefits of this new economy, even the ordi-nary citizen. In early 2012, LRM, Nuhma and LIMCOOP are setting up the Lim-burg Climate Fund (CVBA - a cooperative company with limited liability). Anyone can have a share of over 100 euros in this. The money ends up in climate-friendly investment projects, including initiatives on energy-saving, energy and heat re-covery, solar power, wind energy, biomass, combined heat and power (CHP) pro-jects, grouped low-energy housing and residential construction (new buildings and renovation), hybrid and electric vehicles, LED lighting or heat pumps. Even members of the Climat Parliament and other climate organisations and busi-nesses can hold shares in the Climate Fund. The projects must meet certain ef-ficiency standards. Transparency, social relevance and respect for the role and contribution of all partners are essential to qualify for an investment from the Climate Fund.

Track 2: 44 Limburg climate municipalities

Limburg was the first province in Europe which managed to get all municipalities to join the Covenant of Mayors. In this initiative by the European Commission, municipalities commit themselves to realise the European 20-20-20 goals at the very least. These commitments include reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2020.The municipalities are closest to the people and can have a major impact on the pursuit of climate neutrality. Every city and municipality in Limburg has received its CO2 baseline in 2011, thanks to the joint efforts of the province, Infrax, Lim-burg Sustainable Building Centre (Dubolimburg) and the Federation for a Better Environment. These organisations will support the cities and municipalities in drafting and implementing their own climate plans in 2012. This will result in municipal operations and investments around climate and energy. Through the provinces’ Centre for Social Planning, the county municipalities receive an an-nual data summary (‘climate basket’) which allows them to follow up the results of their efforts in a straightforward manner. The climate figure basket is a user-friendly statistical overview of some fifty climate and housing-related factors that can be used for environmental analysis as a function of climate policy. The cli-

Provincial Governor Herman Reynders explains Limburg’s approach during the third ‘Covenant of Mayors’ ceremony in the European Parliament, Brussels - 29 november 2011. © European commission

Third ‘Covenant of Mayors’ ceremony. Local and regional authorities are committed to implement the European 20-20-20 goals. Brussel - 29 november 2011. © European commission

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mate basket contains, for example, specific data on energy consumption, energy efficiency investments and renewable energy, but also on social housing, building permits and land use.

Sustainability is more than renewable energyWim Dries is the Mayor of Genk, the third largest industrial city in Flanders. Like all other municipalities in the province of Limburg, Genk is committed to striving towards climate neutrality. To the mayor, this means going far beyond switching to renewable energy sources. Climate neutrality requires a genuine social revo-lution.‘The municipality should strive for climate neutrality, we need the citizens to get fired up about this and to attract companies and thus to create a new dynamic. That is just the beginning,’ says Wim Dries. ‘Genk is trying to be an innovative city in which sustainability is essential. This is not just a matter of solar panels, but another way of doing things. Our starting point in this is Corporate Social Responsibility. Passive houses and solar panels are very important, but they should fit into a certain philosophy.’

Wim Dries is convinced that Genk holds the trump cards in order to play a lea-ding role in the new economy, as they have done so often in the past. ‘Our coal industry meant we were leaders in the first industrial revolution. We were pio-neers in the second industrial revolution with Ford Werke GMBH and Arcelor Mittal. We are now trying to take the lead in the third industrial revolution with renewable energy as an engine and with creativity as an important commodity, especially through projects like C-mine and EnergyVille. We are very pleased that the research institutes have chosen Genk as their base for carrying out further research into renewable energy. It is very symbolic that they have established themselves on the same site as where it all began with the coal industry.’But it’s not just research for the sake of research, stresses the mayor. ‘We must ensure that this research has economic applicability in Limburg, Flanders and beyond. The research must promote the economic development of our city by attracting new businesses and creating pilot projects in existing companies. The plans for EnergyVille are quite firm—the first researchers have already started work. The next step is getting every resident of Genk feeling involved, by way of information campaigns and education.’

The municipality is setting a good example in this. Its infrastructure is preserved by focusing on renewable energy and making contracts with renewable suppliers. This line is extended to citizens and businesses. There are plans to install a heat network which reuses industrial waste.

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Recently, Michael Braungart, the spiritual father of the Cradle to Cradle philo-sophy, spoke in Genk. Braungart argues that we need to organise our industrial processes by modelling them on nature in an endless cycle in which waste be-comes food, as it were. Product design should take into account the whole life cycle—almost everything is reusable. Nature provides an abundance of energy and pollution is a thing of the past. A vision with dramatic implications, which are being put into practice by more and more companies. Mayor Wim Dries is on the same wavelength. ‘We must dare to think about other techniques in the economy, about how we deal with raw materials. Only then can we move towards a truly sustainable society. In this sense, Genk has a special eye for energy po-verty. The energy unit at the Public Centre for Social Welfare (OCMW20) ensures that disadvantaged residents are informed about energy costs, energy use and insulation.’

How does Wim Dries view the near and distant future for Genk? ‘I hope that we succeed in creating a sustainable society in all its facets by 2020. A society where our people live in symbiosis with nature and with the companies that have esta-blished themselves there. This will require an effort by everyone in the coming years, but I am convinced that Genk has the assets needed to realise this vision. “

EnergyVille, an innovative energy research centre

© Poponcini & Lootens Ir. Architecten bvba

EnergyVille is a collaboration between VITO, KULeuven and IMEC and is being implemented at the THOR science park in Genk. This will be the centre for re-search and development in the field of new energy. EnergyVille fits in well with the EU objectives to achieve a low carbon economy by 2050. Europe has substantial budgets available for this. Funds are provided within the Strategic Energy Technology Plan (SET) for joint energy research programmes.

20. Openbaar Centrum voor Maatschappelijk Welzijn

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There are funds available for large-scale technological innovation projects. In the next few years, Europe will devote 8 to 9 million euros to projects within EnergyVille’s research area, especially the development of new production pro-cesses, products, services and management systems to make the urban regions more energy-friendly. By 2050, about 500 billion euros will have been invested in Europe in the development of the necessary energy infrastructure. Limburg and Flemish industry have already played an important role in these growth sectors and would like to significantly strengthen these in the future. Like GreenVille (Houthalen-Helchteren), EnergyVille (Genk) is being implemented on a former mine site. This is literally a transition from old to new energy.

Sustainable construction means living differently‘Limburg has a considerable way to go in terms of sustainable (re)building, but the ambition to make the province climate neutral gives us a lot of leverage to get ahead in the future and to get everyone working towards the same goals,’ says Kris Asnong, coordinator of Dubolimburg. Her organisation provides advice on sustainable construction to individuals, professionals, governments, educational institutions and NGOs.In the past, Limburg—along with the rest of Flanders—broke major rules in the principles of sustainable construction. The housing model of a contiguous settlement of detached houses is anything but sustainable—it is often not com-pact, difficult to insulate and entails high public infrastructure costs. Our way of life is based on the principles of individual home and car use. This has spatial as well as social consequences.

Sustainable building is a container term. In essence, it deals with the way we manage energy, water, materials and our environment when building, and in our daily lives. Sustainable energy use is based on the triad of energetics, a roadmap for dealing with scarce fossil fuels in a more rational way. First, we must avoid and reduce unnecessary energy consumption. The energy that is necessary should be generated as much as possible from renewable sources. If that is not enough, we can make optimum use of fossil fuel sources, such as with a condensing boiler.

‘Energy saving or energy-neutral building is the future,’ says Kris Asnong. ‘In Flanders, the Action Plan Nearly-Energy Neutral (BEN21) is ready, which means that all new government buildings must be almost energy neutral by 2019 and all new homes by 2021. But you don’t have to wait that long. We are already trying to encourage those who are building today or tomorrow to evolve in that direction.’‘Being nearly energy neutral is not always possible when renovating,’ admits Kris Asnong. ‘We want to be both as ambitious and realistic as possible. We must

21. Bijna-Energieneutraal

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also try to avoid people investing today in measures that do not go far enough. If you insulate your roof now then you are better off doing that according to future standards because it’s unlikely that you will do it again in five or ten years if you do not have enough insulation. The same goes for your heating system. The most important advice we can give today is: choose a robust, user-friendly and reliable property with a sustainable balance between energy efficiency, comfort, cost ef-ficiency and maintenance. Provide a well-insulated unit—you can always add the extra frills later on. This doesn’t mean that everyone should replace his/her hea-ting system with a heat pump right now. If your house is insulated well enough, then a small gas condensing boiler is also an excellent solution.’

The big question is whether we can continue to build and live outside town cen-tres, as has been the norm for a long time now: detached houses in a contiguous settlement. ‘The ideal solution in terms of energy and space usage is inward ex-pansion and living compactly in core centres,’ says Kris Asnong. ‘But you can’t just eliminate the existing patrimony. We have to be realistic and choose a mid-dle ground. Out of necessity, we need to think more carefully about how we use space. This includes multifunctional and collective use of space. If you approach it in the right way, then we would no longer all need to have a separate heating system, washing machine or our own car.’

A movement has already developed of those who are not necessarily willing to rearrange things within their own four walls, but who do see the need for public services. People who are willing to share space, technical equipment, a place for doing laundry or a car. A lot of financial, social and practical benefits are associ-ated with this kind of lifestyle. It also helps us to move towards a stronger social fabric. Kris Asnong: ‘Isn’t it crazy, for example, that we have to rely on babysit-ters when there is probably someone living two doors down who could look after our children perfectly well? I think a lot more people would take that step if the legal obstacles surrounding collective provisions were to be eliminated and if a few good examples were put into practice.’ An example of a district like this is Tweewaters in Leuven, says Kris Asnong. It is a sustainable, pedestrian district with 70% open and public space. The district will soon generate its own green energy in a CHP plant. A system of co-ownership means common features are also provided such as a bicycle repair service, a crèche and an ironing workshop.

‘I think a lot will have changed in Limburg by 2020,’ says Kris Asnong. ‘I believe we are evolving into a society with a much larger social anchorage, with much more attention being given to local and collective elements, and to each other. The world is becoming a village. At the same time, we will start to be more care-

Concrete core activation allows smart energy management in buildings. © Houben Construction Team

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ful in our use of space and mixed uses will increase even more. Many of the problems we face today as regards sustainable building and living are related to reckless spatial planning. The aim to make Limburg climate neutral could provi-de vital leverage in addressing those issues. I think our province will really make a difference in years to come. I think we’ll be a forerunner and set a good example.’‘There is not yet a broad social vision of sustainable building and living among the general public, but rather within an enthusiastic group of pioneers,’ admits Kris Asnong. Companies are starting to pick up on this way of thinking. Think of innovative construction kits in the field of timber frame construction. LRM also aims to provide capital for this. ‘What we really need to be alert to,’ warns Asnong ‘is avoiding energy poverty. But I have noticed that municipalities are working on third party financing and community facilities for social housing areas, so that disadvantaged social groups don’t miss out.’

Spatial planning to serve the climate

The province has a lot of influence in the field of spatial planning. That gives it the chance to lead by example in the practice of the principles outlined in the climate change study. To maximise the use of renewable energy, the county has prepared a ‘wind plan’ showing preferred areas for the optimal siting of wind turbines. The province is also looking to identify opportunities for district heating, for example by reusing residual heat released in power plants and industrial processes. The transition to a climate neutral region fits into a larger vision: the transition of Limburg to a sustainable, resilient province. This includes a thorough review of the provincial structure plan, with attention being given to the correct location of features, the accessibility of the region’s major attractions, the further expan-sion of the cycle network and putting the sustainable and multiple use of space into practice. This could include the combination of wind and mobile phone masts and layering and interweaving functions: greenhouses above manufactu-ring companies, offices on top of car parks, the well thought-out siting of shops, sports and employment infrastructure. New residential areas must be made easily accessible by way of public transpor-tation in urban planning. Based on that schedule, the province must also spe-cifically consider the implications of the changing climate. So there should be more room for water, minimal paved surfaces and rainwater should be reused for plumbing and irrigation. A province with better spatial planning can accommodate more forest, nature and sustainable agriculture than is currently the case in Limburg. Open space areas are getting larger and more robust and species can move between green core areas. But many species feel equally at home in residential, working and

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industrial areas. Cleaner transport and production systems make it a healthy and pleasant place for humans, animals and plants to settle in.

A climate plan for each municipalityIn 2012, each municipality in Limburg will draw up a climate plan. The plan pro-vides specific answers to questions like: where are we today, where do we want to go and how will we achieve these objectives? The Limburg municipalities have played a leading role thanks to a unique initiative by the province of Limburg and its partners. They proposed a draft action plan that meets the provisions of the Covenant of Mayors. Each municipality can of course choose what actions they wish to include and how they want to reach specific target groups. Each munici-pality differs in its local context and is thus able to identify its own concrete goals. From time to time, the provincial government brings together the municipalities, members of the Climate Parliament and the do tanks to share experiences during key moments. The board believes that this intersection of contacts and ideas can potentially lead to the best projects.In order to support municipalities in informing and involving all sections of the population, the provincial government offers a wide range of communication tools: brochures for specific target groups, posters, sample texts and the website www.limburgklimaatneutraal.be.The municipalities are also working on sustainable energy in their own patri-mony. The network company Infrax provides the municipalities with a detailed overview of energy consumption in their own buildings. If needed, municipalities can outsource full energy management and all energy-saving investments to the ESCO (Energy Service Company) programme at Infrax, meaning energy savings benefit the municipality.

Nuhma, the Limburg climate company

As a utility holding company of the 44 Limburg municipalities, Nuhma invests in sustainability projects with a focus on energy, innovation, or activities of commu-nity interest with an added value on a societal level. Nuhma was not presented as the Limburg Climate Business without a reason. Through its participation, Nuhma has the potential to provide 90% of Limburg’s green energy.

Track 3: 850,000 Limburg climate change ambassadors

However much effort is made by the Climate Parliament, do tanks, municipali-ties and the province, the final goal is and will remain convincing all Limburgers

Provincial Governor Herman Reynders, Commissioner Frank Smeets and representatives of all Limburg municipalities and the climate partners sign the European ‘Covenant of Mayers’, Hasselt - 30 november 2011. © Eddy Daniels, provincie of Limburg

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to lead a climate-friendly way of life. The range of energy-friendly products and services will only take effect if a large number of consumers choose to implement them. As an example, if we were all to choose passive or near-neutral energy in new constructions or renovations, the energy demand would be drastically redu-ced along with emissions, with a multiple positive effect on the prosperity and wellbeing of local residents in Limburg.The province is therefore trying to create a broad basis and a major commitment, for example through campaigns on climate, insulation, mobility and regional products, through publications in newspapers and magazines, social media like Facebook and Twitter, the website www.limburgklimaatneutraal.be, by joining third party climate-friendly initiatives and of course through the Climate Parlia-ment. All those beautiful words and actions should lead to the creation of a Lim-burg climate community, a large community to which everyone wants to belong.

Everyone is a climate change ambassadorVic Santermans (64) from Diepenbeek is one of the original climate ambassa-dors. He is a retired bank employee who is active in the KWB (Christian Workers’ Movement), where he was president of the local branch in Rooierheide for sixteen years. Five years ago, he joined the climate change districts (Klimaatwijken) ini-tiative (now called Energiejacht - Energy Hunt) through KWB. This is a project in which households work together to reduce their energy bills.‘Saving energy is not difficult if you’re consistent,’ said Vic Santermans. ‘I have insulated the attic in my house. Since then, I have reduced my heating costs by around 30%. I have switched from fuel oil to natural gas for my heating, with equally pleasant consequences for my wallet. I replaced my double glazing with high-efficiency glass. Such interventions do of course cost some money, but you earn it back quickly. As well as lower consumption, there are tax breaks, grants and subsidies that help to fund the whole thing. I do not feel that I have had to fork out a lot for this. It’s nice to make a significant saving while doing something for nature and the climate at the same time. The KWB has also committed to working towards climate neutrality and I like participating in that. There is great enthusiasm within the KWB to work on this and I must say that the municipality of Diepenbeek has made a lot of effort to try and convince people.’

And Vic Santermans hasn’t stopped at insulating his house, switching to gas and taking note of his standby consumption. ‘We eat local Limburg products as much as possible and we leave the car at home as much as possible. We always use our bikes for short distances. Nine times out of ten, my wife and I travel the 7 km to Hasselt by bike. I always take my bike to go the baker’s and I always wonder why others don’t do the same. But giving up my car altogether is not really an option.

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We live a bit too far from the major town centres to be able to do that and I can’t run all errands by bike. I’m not sure whether my next car would be an electric or hybrid one. I don’t know how I’ll feel about buying a car in five years’ time.’

Cleantech ambassadors

People who would like to voluntarily get involved in Limburg’s climate change aims by informing citizens, associations or institutions about the focus on clean-tech, can contact the association CleanTechPunt (‘cleantech point’). This associa-tion wants to make cleantech more widely known. Its introduction at all levels in our society can only be successful if it is accompanied by the sociocultural tran-sition, attention to environmental concerns and economic profitability. The main objective of CleanTechPunt is also identifying, recognising, communicating and visualising the positive effects of cleantech together with pioneers in the industry. This is why cleantech ambassadors are now being trained in Limburg. They will make the benefits of cleantech visible for our society in a comprehensive way.

Successful energy campaignsThere are many Limburgers who think and act like Vic Santermans or who have plans similar to his. And that produces results. The sum of all these efforts and investments means Limburg has been able to present a good interim report. The results are especially impressive in the field of solar panels, roof insulation, wall insulation, floor insulation, insulating glazing—and by extension wind energy. These themes were addressed in provincial energy campaigns carried out in re-cent years. Limburgers could count on practical information and customised ad-vice and some joint purchases were even arranged.

Every day is SUNdayBetween 2007 and 2009, the campaign ‘Every day is SUNday’—which focused on solar energy—gave a real boost to PV installations in Lim-

burg. Whereas only 77 systems were installed in 2006, there were 15,851 by 2011—so 200 times more within five years. All 31,000 PV installations from re-cent years together provide green energy for the equivalent of 70,327 households, representing 20% of all Limburgers.

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Evolution of roof insulation in Limburg in terms of number of premiums(Source: Infrax)

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Limburg InsulatesThe energy campaign ‘Limburg Insulates’ (2009-2011) was a great suc-cess. It encouraged a mass transition to the insulation of private homes

in Limburg. The number of insulated roofs tripled between 2008 and 2011. When checked against the figures of the Flemish Energy Rehabilitation Programme of 2020, it appears that Limburg is a whopping 50% above the Flemish target figure for roof insulation. The figures are also impressive in terms of wall insulation. The number of investments quadrupled in 2011 compared to 2008 to 35% above the target figure. The same trend has manifested itself in floor insulation. That tripled in 2011 compared to 2008 and is thus 54% above the target figure.A final consideration in the campaign ‘Limburg Insulates’ is insulated glazing. The growth in this is less impressive than that of roof, wall or floor insulation. Limburg remains below target, but the trend is increasing. The increase of 47% in 2011 compared to 2008 is certainly worth a mention.If the trend in insulation investments continues in the coming years, then Lim-burg will be able to meet the objectives of the Flemish Energy Rehabilitation Pro-gramme of 2020 very quickly. However, caution is needed. The removal of tax incentives at the national level causes uncertainty as to whether the above trends will continue in the same way.

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Evolution of insulation in Limburgin terms of number of premiums(Source: Infrax)

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r� Roof insulation

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Energy-efficient investments within everyone’s reach The success of Limburg insulates is partly due to Duwolim and the insulation teams. Duwolim22 (Sustainable Living Limburg), a non-commercial initia-tive that encourages investments in energy-efficient homes for underprivileged groups in Limburg. Duwolim grants loans for energy-saving measures at a fa-vourable interest rate of 2%. These loans can also help Limburgers with limited financial resources to save on their energy bills. Within two years’ time, Duwolim approved 842 loans totalling more than 1,051 energy-efficient investments. High-efficiency glass and condensing boilers con-stitute a significant share of these. Roof insulation is also well represented. The investments saved 2,686,412 kg of CO2 in total. That is the same as the annual emissions of 2,500 cars. Now that all Limburg municipalities are partners of Duwolim, it is expected that the number of loans will increase significantly in the coming years. It is noteworthy that 41% of the files are assigned to families with a net monthly income of under 2,000 euros. One in five credits goes to families with a signi-ficantly lower income than average or Limburgers with ‘increased reimburse-ments’. More than a quarter of the files are related to single people. Even senior citizens can be convinced to invest. As many as 60% of the files were implemen-

22. Duurzaam Wonen Limburg

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ted by those over 55 and one in three customers is over 65 years old. These older people are at risk of falling by the wayside in ordinary banks. Six Limburg insulation teams from the social economy sector have been insu-lating the roofs of disadvantaged groups since 2010. The costs for these social groups are kept low by subsidies, favourable financial arrangements and joint purchases. The results speak for themselves. At the end of 2012, 1711 homes will be provided with roof insulation, which is equal to 78,286 m².

Warm LimburgThe aim of the province of Limburg’s most recent campaign ‘Warm Limburg’ (2012-2014) is to improve the energy performance of both

existing and new homes and apartments together with its partners, the Limburg municipalities and of course building professionals (architects, builders and in-stallers). The province is thus again supporting the implementation of the Fle-mish Energy Rehabilitation Programme of 2020.In terms of heating, efficient condensing boilers have now become the norm. Whoever installs a new boiler almost automatically chooses a condensing boiler using fuel oil or natural gas. This is a good thing, but it could always be better. ‘Warm Limburg’ aims to convince Limburgers to prepare for the future when making changes to their heating systems. By opting for green heat at this stage, they are already prepared for the increasingly stringent European environmental regulations.For the Limburg heating sector—especially the installers and professionals—the conversion to plants with a better yield is an economic opportunity. They should expect an increasing demand for high-efficiency condensing boilers, solar water heaters, heat pumps and pellet stoves and boilers in the coming years—in short, the heating techniques recommended by the provincial campaign.

Wind energyThe PV installations in Limburg provide electricity for 20% of Limburg families (figures from early 2012). In conjunction with the electricity produced by the 23 wind turbines installed in Limburg, enough green power is being generated to provide 30% of Limburg families with their electricity needs. If 86 turbines are li-cenced within a few years, it can even reach 56%. An impressive figure. If PV and wind energy continue to grow, it will succeed in producing enough green energy to provide for energy use in all Limburg homes.

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Track 4: The provincial government sets a good example

Those who ask a lot of others should set a good example. The province is relying on the voluntary efforts of many organisations and the public to shape its climate policy. To make this call for mobilisation powerful and credible, the province wants to take the lead and be climate neutral in its own operations.

BaselineThe CO2 records prepared for the provincial government and its operations were analogous to the baseline drawn up for Limburg. On the one hand, GHG emis-sions from all provincial buildings, vehicles and personnel were calculated and expressed in CO2 equivalents. On the other hand, the CO2 uptake in provincial forests was taken into account. The figures for 2010 were used as a basis.

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)

All told, the provincial government emitted a total of 9,399,771 tonnes of CO2 equivalents in 2010, or about a thousandth of the total emissions in its territory. Most of this comes from heating buildings, a quarter of the emissions are offset by the CO2 absorption by forests. The net emissions from the provincial govern-ment amount to 6,572,409 tonnes of CO2 equivalents.

Action planAn action plan was drawn up according to the baseline. The provincial gover-nment can build on existing initiatives. It has been operating according to in-ternal environmental management (IEM). This was recently expanded as part of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). To give a few examples: the province implements a sustainable purchasing policy. The province raises the awareness of its staff to sensible energy use in the office. It has a company transport plan that encourages sustainable mobility for business travel and commuting. The energy records allow priorities to be made and resources to be committed. The province makes energy-efficient investments in existing buildings and invests in renewable energy for a number of buildings (with solar thermal systems and PV).These are all useful initiatives, but bigger steps need to be taken to attain zero emissions. The provincial commitment to climate neutrality should not beco-me an issue of additional rules, obligations and procedures. It focuses heavily on existing initiatives that are substantively consistent with the climate chan-

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ge targets, such as ‘Kicking the habit!’ (encouraging the use of bicycles, public transport and carpooling), the ‘Fit & Healthy charter’ (which encourages local authority employees to take more exercise) and Pure Limburg (the promotion of home-grown products).In 2012, the province will carry out a few large solar projects in its buildings. A number of electric vehicles will be put into use as part of this. Furthermore, the province will have a budget of 5 million euros in 2012 to make its buildings more energy efficient.

What does all of this cost?Working on climate neutrality does not have to incur high costs in terms of people and resources. Apart from the investment budget of 5 million euros to make provincial buildings more energy-efficient—an investment which will pay itself off in the long term—approximately 200,000 euros of operating funds, wit-hin different projects, will be made available in 2012. To organise the Climate Parliament, the do tanks, the climate municipalities and campaigns, the pro-vincial government is providing the equivalent of six full-time positions in 2012. Their efforts will pay off especially with the help of a network of partner organi-sations: the joint efforts of the members of the Climate Parliament, companies, do tanks, the climate municipalities, Nuhma, LRM and other partners, make all the difference. The province of Limburg therefore primarily acts as a director or facilitator which creates a leverage effect.

Staffing and operating budget provided by the province of Limburg in order to achieve the ‘Limburg goes climate neutral’ objectives

Staff Operating budget (in euro)

2008 1 FTE

‘Every day is SUNday’ campaign (120,000), Limburg Sustainable Building Centre (100,000), cofinancing sustainable building projects (225,000), ‘Climate Change Districts’ campaign (35,000), Operating costs (5,000)

2009 1 FTE

‘Every day is SUNday’ campaign (160,000), Limburg Sustainable Building Centre (100,000), ‘Climate Change Districts’ campaign (45,000), ‘Limburg Insulates’ campaign (60,000), cofinancing sustainable building projects (225,000), Operating costs (5,000)

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2010 4 FTE

‘Every day is SUNday’ campaign (128,000), ‘Limburg Insulates’ campaign (75,000), ‘Energy Hunt’ campaign (45,000), cofinancing sustainable building projects (200,000), Limburg Sustainable Building Centre (100,000), Climate change study (200,000 ), Insulation Teams (200,000), Forestry roads (2,200,000), Operating costs (10,000)

2011 6 FTE

‘Limburg Insulates’ campaign (75,000), ‘Warm Limburg’ campaign (44,000), Climate communications (120,000), Municipal climate change plans (500,000), Cleantech (76,000), Insulation Teams (200,000), Limburg Sustainable Building Centre (100,000), cofinancing sustainable building projects (200,000), ‘Climate’ campaign (45,000), Bokrijk electric service vehicle (30,000), Operating costs (30, 000)

2012 6 FTE

Climate communications (45,000), Cleantech (90,000), Insulation Teams (200,000), Limburg Sustainable Building Centre (100,000), Additional budget investment in energy-efficient buildings and infrastructure for provincial government (5,000,000) Operating costs (40,000)

Note: The amounts and staffing levels presented here are estimated on the basis of directly attributable data.

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4. Climate neutrality as a business model‘We always overestimate what we can change in two years, but underestimate the changes that may occur in the next decade.’ Bill Gates, Microsoft chairman and philanthropist

A new start

The fossil fuels-draining economic model of the first and second industrial re-volutions has entered its final decades. A profound change in our way of living, working, transporting goods and people and doing business, is imperative. Hu-manity is evolving into a lifestyle where nature is no longer an enemy but an ally.To live in symbiosis with nature, we do not by definition need to compromise on comfort or prosperity. We will use less energy because we will build more ef-fectively and insulate well—something that Limburg is already a leader in. The energy which will still be needed in transportation, heating, cooling and produc-tion processes will be generated by making use of the renewable energy that na-ture provides in abundance: solar, wind and hydropower, geothermal energy and biomass (to mention the most important ones). Limburg already generates 30% of its electricity from renewable sources. This figure could be 100% by 2020, if the number of wind turbines and PV systems continues to grow. The fear of energy shortage will then be a thing of the past.By 2050 – as indicated in the visionary scenario - the transition to a low carbon economy will be a reality. Global warming will have been brought to a successful end as concerns Limburg’s share in it. The economy will be completely aligned with renewable energy and renewable resources. Dealing sustainably with mo-ther earth will provide for an endless cycle of food, fuel, happiness and prosperity. The region that is the first to fully realise this and which makes every effort at achieving the earliest possible transition to a climate-neutral and energy-efficient way of working, living and transporting goods and people, has a huge competitive

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advantage. We are convinced that Limburg is able to, wants to, and will be that region.

Limburg’s head start

The first stones on the path to climate neutrality have been laid. Limburg is on the right track. The interim report looks promising. Limburg’s approach serves as a reference point and the initiative is inspiring others to follow suit. In our own country, the province of Flemish Brabant and the cities of Leuven and Ghent are working towards achieving climate neutrality. The ‘Intercommunale Leie-dal’23 (West Flanders) has recently endorsed the same goal and many will follow suit. Similar initiatives have been launched abroad. The province of Limburg will maintain its lead and will take new steps by way of the Climate Parliament, com-panies, municipalities, citizens and its own services.

The Climate Parliament means Limburg is assured of a widely-supported tran-sition movement in all parts of society. Civil society organisations, ETS compa-nies, business groups, trade unions, public enterprises, research institutes and advisory councils will meet there in a constructive atmosphere and decide on concrete actions. The Climate Parliament has a lot of opportunities which will be mobilised in the coming months and years.

The transition to a sustainable way of producing and doing business offers many business opportunities to existing and new companies in Limburg. Limburg is a pioneer in cleantech and will soon reap the rewards of this. GreenVille Service Centre and the EnergyVille research institute have created a new dynamic in re-search and development. Limburg is on the verge of growing into an important centre of cleantech and energy. The province’s healthy and innovative investment climate ultimately contributes to a healthy climate tout court.

Limburg municipalities play a crucial role in the transition to a sustainable socie-ty in the broadest sense of the word. The 44 Limburg municipalities were the first in Europe to sign the Covenant of Mayors in which they committed themselves to at least attaining or surpassing the European climate targets for 2020. Munici-palities now have the information needed to introduce local-style climate plants in the course of this year and to launch concrete climate-based initiatives. The Limburg municipalities shall take special care that no one misses out. Because sustainability is much more than just switching to renewable energy. It streng-thens our social fabric, citizens start living, working, relaxing and consuming in a different way. And Limburg can also play a pioneering role in this.

23. Intercommunal organisation supporting municipal development.

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The Limburgers are also helping. They are insulating their homes, restricting their car use when possible, consuming local products and switching to renew-able energy. They are assured of work in a region that is taking the lead in the third industrial revolution. It is an added bonus that their province thus becomes an even healthier and nicer place to live in.

The province’s role in the development of a sustainable and climate neutral re-gion is that of director and facilitator. It implements concrete initiatives which generate a leveraging effect. It sets a good example by making its own operations more sustainable. The rapidly spreading inkblot of other regions who also want to be climate neutral, proves that we are on the right track.

The future

The climate change study shows that being climate neutral by 2020 is technically feasible. But Limburg is looking to the future with an open mind. By 2020, it will have achieved an emission reduction of 50% using a selection of desirable mea-sures from the 2020 scenario, based on the currently available techniques. The interim results which Limburg can present in the field of solar energy, insula-tion and wind are more than encouraging. Moreover, a series of major industrial projects which could provide huge CO2 savings are in the pipeline. If Limburg manages to maintain this trend and if the planned projects are realised, then the province will have gone a long way towards attaining climate neutrality by 2020. Future technologies for energy production are being simultaneously developed and implemented as is the organisation of a transition to becoming a resilient, energy-efficient and sustainable province. This last movement takes time to pay off, but offers the most prosperous perspective for Limburg.

By 2050 – as indicated in the future scenario – Limburg will indeed become a more self-sufficient, carbon neutral, more sustainable, healthier and more prosperous province. Climate neutrality is not only a necessity in making the transition to a truly sustainable society, but it is also the business model of the 21st century. In-novative companies in Limburg, forward-looking municipalities and passionate citizens will learn a fundamentally different approach to things in the coming decades. They will organise their transport more efficiently. There is no place for ordinary diesel and gasoline vehicles in cities in the foreseeable future. And later, zero emissions will become standard practice in transportation. Over time, buildings will no longer need energy from outside, but will provide a surplus to the grid. Europe is leading the way in this area with the advent of nearly-neutral

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buildings. Limburg is working on smart networks to manage that green power in the right direction and provide for storage when the wind is not blowing or the sun is not shining. The central energy production and industry will be as efficient as possible in terms of the consumption of raw materials and minimising green-house gas emissions.Research centres such as EnergyVille will develop innovative energy technolo-gies, which will lead to valuable and sustainable solutions. This knowledge will also flow into education where pupils will be made aware of the new opportu-nities that the business model of the 21st century offers. After they graduate, they will find work in a forward-thinking, open and sustainable economy where knowledge and sharing information is increasingly important. Today’s children will reap the benefits of a sustainable society.

That famous Limburg feeling has a special place in a society based on sustainabi-lity. The togetherness and solidarity it stands for translates concretely into quality of life. By emphasising ‘together’ rather than ‘each man for himself’, that quality of life will be made available to all sections of society.

Neighbouring regions and countries are already looking with interest at how Limburg is making the transition to sustainability. Limburg is making its en-trepreneurial spirit and vision of the future into a product for export, not only for selfish reasons, but primarily from a global perspective that goes back to the core of sustainable development: ‘Think globally, act locally, change personally’. As long as sufficient attention is given to local variations, then the Limburg ap-proach is applicable anywhere in the world, because the methodology takes into account key issues such as how companies, civil society, municipalities and in-dividuals can be involved in the transition to a progressive climate policy, how the necessary resources and much needed enthusiasm can be generated. The world is on the verge of entering the third industrial revolution. In Limburg, it has already started

colophon

publicationThe provincial executive of the Province of Limburg: Herman Reynders, governor-chairman; Marc Vandeput, Walter Cremers, Gilbert Van Baelen, Frank Smeets, Jean-Paul Peuskens, Mieke Ramaekers, commissioners; and Renata Camps, county clerk

textJan Bosteels

final editingJohan Van den Broek

editorial boardRita Bogaerts, David Michiels, Luc Driesen, Johan Van den Broek, Inge Verheyen

coordinationRita Bogaerts

graphic designDion Boodts - Information and Communication, Province of Limburg

photography cover & endpapersRobin Reynders - Information and Communication, Province of Limburg

circulation750 copies

chief editorJohan Van den Broek, Universiteitslaan 1, 3500 Hasselt

contactProvince of LimburgManagement Area—Department of the Environment and Nature—Planning and PolicyUniversiteitslaan 1BE – 3500 HasseltTel. 011 23 83 32, [email protected]

This publication was translated from Dutch.

d/2012/5857/10 isbn 978-90-746-0552-6

provincie LimburgUniversiteitslaan 13500 Hasselt, BE

limburg.be

How can we make Limburg climate neutral by 2020?Limburg climate policy approach

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