The Sustainability Factory

Working Group:Early InquiryCountry:NetherlandsLanguages:DutchAge of students (target group/s):13-14, 15-18Links, resources:http://www.duurzaamheidsfabriek.nl/ The Sustainability Factory is a powerful collaboration between companies, the educational field and the government. It provides real life education for the new generation of technicians. Inspiration, innovation, sustainability and craftsmanship come together and contribute to the development of the region. An excellent breeding ground for pioneers, start-ups and innovations. The factory itself is a modern and very sustainable building designed by the famous sustainability architect Thomas Rau. The projects being carried out are in close cooperation with famous science institutes and companies like Siemens, HVC, Sublean and IWZH. The factory is aimed at sustainable technology with a focus on maritime technology and transition of energy. From education for the young ones to training on the job; everything is possible in the Sustainability Factory where a life long learning becomes something tangible.Strong points and opportunities:- The project has a strong link between companies and science institutions on one hand and schools on the other hand: this leads to true to life and practical science education; - The project has built strong links between schools and companies focussed on sustainability themes in the region. - The Sustainability Factory is an inspirational setting for students and others involved as it is a modern and very sustainable building.Limitations:- It is challenging to carry the project out elsewhere because in order to do so a similar modern and sustainable building is needed as a base for this project.Added value with regards to the 3 topics of the MASS project:- It provides real life education for a new generation of technicians.