Innovations in the Dutch Kingdom
By Anika in Business opportunities, Export on 15. Mar, 2016No Comments
Pioneering new technologies is in the Kingdom’s genes! It is no secret that research, innovation and technology are key traits to move our economies forward. And especially nowadays, when these elements are combined with sustainable thinking, societies are able to advance in a durable way.
For many businesses, innovation is the key to success or failure. The Kingdom of the Netherlands is not standing still on innovative developments. Selling innovative knowledge is part of our economies, for instance; we all know that The Netherlands is an expert in the field of water management. With large areas of the country below sea level or prone to flooding, no one lives with or manages water better than the Dutch. The Netherlands have used the acquired knowledge and techniques to address water challenges around the world.
A beautiful part of the Dutch Kingdom is located in the Caribbean. A perfect strategic location to test innovations and technologies in different climates and cultures. Did you know that Aruba’s airport was recognized as most innovative airport in the world last year? And that the parking meters on Aruba and Curacao work on solar energy? In this blog you can read more about innovations throughout The Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Happy flow Aruba
Aruba’s Airport is the first airport in the world to provide a 100% self-service passenger experience, the Happy Flow. The pilot project use biometrics as a key identifier at the airport checkpoints. The checkpoints use facial recognition technology to identify passengers at check-in, bag drop, border control and aircraft boarding. Aruba airport’s Happy Flow project was recognized by Airport Business as the most innovative airport project of 2015.
Innovative Agriculture project Bonaire
In September 2015, Bonaire and the Netherlands have signed an MOU for the establishment of a center of expertise, trial garden and innovation center for sustainable agriculture and horticulture techniques. The government will make expertise available to train local people so that they are able to continue the execution of the project independently in the future.
Safety app Curacao
In January 2016, Curacao has launched an app to help authorities solves crimes. This app makes it possible to make a clear description of the criminal and spread it quickly among a large audiences with using the platform. In other countries the prevention function of the app making an important contribution to the safety of communities.
Waste recycling Saba
Saba and the Netherlands are working together on waste recycling. This agreement was signed in June 2015. A knowledge platform ‘Green Deal’ will contribute to a better waste management system. Dutch organizations will make materials and expertise available to realize the project. Used batteries and other materials will be collected in separate boxes and shipped to the Netherlands for further processing.
Solaroad Netherlands
Solaroad is the world’s first road paved with solar panels. The strong and stiff panel structure collects and converts solar energy from the already existing infrastructure. The energy is absorbed by the grid. This can make and innovative and serious contribution to sustainable energy production. In the future the energy could be used to power electric vehicles.
TNO, one of the inventing partners of the solar road opened a branch on Aruba. Aruba’s strategic location and climate are favorable to develop new innovative techniques that can be used in the region. This is also an example of how the Kingdom’s knowledge can be acquired and shared to help build sustainable economies.