Just Zeeland is an energy transition project that places spatial justice at its core. Located in the province of Zeeland, the project responds to national ambitions to transform the region into a major energy and industrial hub, including the expansion of nuclear energy. In contrast, it proposes an alternative future without nuclear energy, based on a resilient and circular system that balances economic stability, environmental quality and social justice.

The project is grounded in one overarching community: rural delta residents whose daily territories intersect with energy infrastructures. Within this group, three sub-communities are identified: village based residents, industrial workforce residents and transition-oriented communities. Each represents different values related to economic stability, environmental responsibility and governance. The aim is to develop a spatial framework that balances these perspectives.

The approach combines spatial analysis, stakeholder analysis and research by design. A phased strategy towards 2100 is developed across multiple scales and structured around three interconnected systems: industry, mobility and energy communities. Industrial clusters are reorganised into circular systems supported by renewable energy and hydrogen. Mobility systems improve regional accessibility and connect communities through hubs and networks. Energy communities range from local, self-sufficient systems to larger clusters that also produce energy for the wider region.

The results show how bundling infrastructure, organising flows and strengthening local systems can reduce spatial pressure while improving accessibility and energy resilience.

The project demonstrates that integrating industry, mobility and community-based energy systems can support a more balanced and socially and spatially just transition, in which economy, environment and society are more equally aligned. ... Read more