The Hague has released a policy document detailing its transition to a circular economy. The document highlights why a shift to circular economy is necessary, as well as the benefits it can bring regarding the city’s sustainable development. It also provides an incomplete list of 143 circular projects occurring in the city, and presents research that finds that circular strategies in construction, procurement and retail trade sectors could significantly reduce carbon emissions and bring as many as 3,500 jobs. The policy note, based on the Hague’s characteristics, prioritises improvements in biomass, construction materials and critical raw materials—and lists readily implementable strategies in these sectors. 

Food waste in the retail and hospitality industries is large, much of the food is thrown away. Supermarkets, hotels and restaurants play a major role in this. A part of the food waste is unavoidable but a large part can be reused. There are numerous examples to combat food waste. As well as saving resources, this can also deliver financial savings. An example in The Hague is Instock where residual flows from the Albert Heijn is used to put together a menu in the successful restaurant Instock.