This thesis investigates how the industrial system of the Wadden Sea region can be spatially transformed towards Sustainable Circularity. As a semi-peripheral and ecologically fragile territory, the region operates as an operational hinterland for Europe where extractive industries intersect with vulnerable landscapes and dispersed communities.

Using the theoretical lenses of metabolism and territorialism, the research explores four key questions: (1) it maps the regional spatial-industrial history,
(2) examines how territorial and metabolic processes co-shape current regional dynamics,
(3) identifies leverage points and spatial pathways for systemic transition and
(4) proposes strategic design interventions on the regional and the local scale.

The methodology combines diachronic mapping, territorial capital analysis and spatial flow readings, not to quantify, but to reveal underlying spatial organisational principles and systemic logics. These are synthesised into three structuring motors: productive, protective and ecological. Based on these, the thesis formulates a vision for a sustainable, cross-border metabolism, that is explored through scenarios. The resulting findings are structured and made actionable through an adaptive strategic framework. A zoom-in on the city of Emden illustrates how baseline spatial interventions can anchor long-term transitions.

The work contributes to current discourse on circular economy, regional transformation and design-led planning by offering a spatially explicit and theoretically grounded approach. It situates industrial sustainability in policy, process and simultaneously in the fabric of the landscape and the design of territorial futures. ... Read more

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.
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