Alexander’s role is to connect research projects to business opportunities, and to explore the potential of nature based solutions - developed by Wageningen University & Research - in metropolitan related challenges. These challenges can be identified by using service design thinking to stimulate co-creativity and exploration to come up with solutions and services that the city of Amsterdam is looking for.
In his previous role at Vitens, Alexander was responsible for the setup and implementation of the valorization program to upcycle all byproducts from drinking water production. In 2015 this program won the prize for National Circular Icon of the Netherlands. Also he was jointly responsible for the strategic change of Vitens towards the circular economy and to implement concepts to support resiliency. He bridges research and business and has set up national and international collaborations.
Also, in 2017 he joined the Nexteconomy.nu platform, a platform of entrepreneurs and specialists focusing on new economy breakthroughs, such as municipal waste in cities or the transition of farmers in the Amsterdam Wetlands.
The complex system of the city and how this system is connected with the ecosystem around has always been an inspiration for Alexander. For instance the city of Amsterdam has interesting competences and geographic location which can be used as a model for metropolitan cities on how to live with water in relation to the energy, water and food nexus.
“Forget about route signs. Everybody has the right to lose their way to discover new pathways and come to solutions beyond our imagination.”
Alexander Laarman
Program Developer Business Development Nature Based Solutions
