Master plan sets Chemelot on track to achieve ambitious sustainability vision

Chemelot is a leading chemical cluster which combines research and development, test factories and large-scale chemical manufacturing at a single location. Around 8,000 people work at the site for organisations ranging from innovative start-ups to strategically important global players.

Collective approach creates strong basis for success

Chemelot and DSM Nederland B.V. approached Royal HaskoningDHV for help in drawing up a strategic master plan to prepare for the future. We facilitated a site-wide approach, drawing together a team from companies across Chemelot representing a wide range of disciplines and backgrounds. Over time, the team was broadened to incorporate input from government, local authorities and other stakeholders to ensure wide support for plans and solutions.

The process defined the main challenges. From there, scenarios were developed and solutions selected to create the Chemelot 2030 Master Plan. The plan integrates and coordinates site planning with the sustainability and safety agenda, prioritising developments in the fields of climate neutrality, circular chemistry, sustainable use of space and water, and multimodal transport. It is a ‘living plan’ which can change and accommodate future developments.

“The integrated team enabled broad understanding of issues being faced and how to solve them. By combining the team’s knowledge with input from governments and our own experts, a strong basis has been created to take steps forward together.”

Moves to carbon neutral, circular operations are under way

These steps have already begun. Some infrastructure changes have been implemented and many studies are ongoing. Redevelopment plans for two brownfield areas and a logistics plan for the site’s port enable companies on site to transition from fossil-based resources to circular options. Pipelines are planned in anticipation of carbon capture and storage and green hydrogen. Ongoing discussions with the community and province, for example with regard to traffic improvements and sustainable transport, ensure broad-based integration.

Multiple projects are being developed in co-creation, drawing on expertise from Royal HaskoningDHV in infrastructure and logistics, stakeholder engagement and other disciplines. We are running the programme office together with the landlord, steering developments, tracking and evaluating progress.

Leading the way in circular developments

A transition agenda for the Chemelot Circular Hub has also been drawn up. This is a collaboration between chemical companies, universities, schools and research institutions to identify how to lead the way in circular developments - a first in Europe on this scale. By taking a leadership position in this field, Chemelot hopes to attract talent and investment to fast track sustainable innovations to be applied on a large scale and to become 100% circular by 2050.