This thesis explores the role of spatial planning in improving both access to and the quality of pedagogical learning environments in socioeconomically segregated neighbourhoods in The Hague, with the overarching aim of promoting systemic equity. It starts from the recognition that children in The Hague face substantial disparities in educational opportunities due to persistent socioeconomic segregation. These divisions not only limit access to high-quality learning environments but also reinforce cycles of inequality from an early age. While the connection between neighbourhood context and educational outcomes is increasingly acknowledged, integrated research and policy responses remain limited.

Adopting an interdisciplinary approach, the study combines theory, spatial analysis, and anecdotal evidence to examine how segregation shapes educational opportunity. It is structured around three phases: analyse, expose, and propose. The analyse phase develops a theoretical and spatial understanding of segregation in The Hague, tracing its origins and implications for children’s access to educational opportunities. The expose phase highlights lived experiences of growing up in segregated areas in The Hague, using theory, mapping, and socio-spatial analysis to bridge discourse and reality. The propose phase formulates a framework for intervention, outlining spatial and procedural objectives for improving learning environments. These objectives are synthesised into a structured set of strategic actions, intended as a practical and adaptable guide for evaluating and implementing improvements. The approach is inspired by the logic of a pattern language, though it does not follow it strictly.

To ground these strategies, the study includes neighbourhood zoom-ins of exemplary learning environments in The Hague that demonstrate the framework’s practical application. Together, the research reveals the systemic roots and spatial expressions of inequality in the urban landscape, offering planners and policymakers targeted strategies to mitigate segregation and foster more inclusive, enriching environments for all children.

Portscapes are one of the most important hubs in the global economic system that facilitate the movement of goods and shape the socio-economic conditions of their surroundings. However, in times of climate change, they face unprec- edented challenges to completely transform their current ways of operating and fully reduce their contribution to a linear economy and socio-spatial injustice. These challenges go far beyond purely economic considerations and calls for a closer analysis of their current spatial impacts and system flows.

Despite their significance, the spatial effects of Portscapes and their role in a shift towards sustainability and circularity is rarely the main focus of urban and regional design efforts. Drawing upon key theories such as circularity, decentralisation, socio-spatial justice, and sustainable land use, our approach involves a multidisciplinary analysis of ports and Portscapes in the Eurodelta portlandscape in North-Western Europe. Through analysis we have identified the different functioning of portscapes, the stakeholders they encompass and the spatial dynamics shaping ports, Portscapes and Port Landscapes.

Our goal is to develop a strategy for the future of the European Portscape after a successful transition towards circular and just development to create a sustainable Eurodelta. This is achieved through a set of five objectives; integrating the ports, Portscapes and portlandscapes; increasing the resource efficiency of Portscapes; regenerating Portscapes for humans and nature; embracing technological innovation; facilitating a socially just transition.

The spatial implications of these five objectives should not be neglected, and our strategy outlines what changes need to happen and when. In four Phases of spatial interventions and regulatory frameworks, we propose to build a just and truly circular Portscape, in harmony with the Eurodelta Port Landscape.

This report holds key implications for both academia and practice, as further light is being shed on the spatial dynamics of Portscapes and potential transition pathways. By understanding the interplay of ports with their surrounding environments better, policymakers, urbanists and other related stakeholders can make informed decisions that promote sustainability and resilience. Ultimately, our efforts regarding the creation of more sustainable Portscapes contribute to broader (global) goals of addressing climate change, promoting socio-spatial justice and ensuring inclusive development.