8 Decent work and economic growth

Sustainable Development Goal 8 focuses on economic growth, which, incidentally, is only sustainable if capital, labour and raw materials are used responsibly and if profits and incomes are distributed fairly between citizens and businesses. At NHL Stenden we are highly committed to decent work and likewise teach our students to take a responsible view of this issue.  

Within the Vital Regions, we, at NHL Stenden UAS, actively work on making processes more sustainable through education and research. The Green Economics & Process Optimisation professorship, for example, conducts research into how we can realise as well as embed this more effectively. Our students, as well as our lecturer/researchers, contribute to resolving sustainability issues through minors or as trainees and graduates at companies. 

Sustainability and the Vital Economy 

We offer various minors that touch on the circular economy and on future-proof entrepreneurship. In addition, within our Vital Economy research group, Matthias Olthaar, professor of Green Economics & Process Optimisation, is actively involved in several areas in research into and creating awareness about the need to make business more sustainable. As a professor of Purposeful Entrepreneurship, Aleid Brouwer works on developing knowledge, among other things, about circular entrepreneurship, sustainable employment and strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems. 

‘I think it’s good that we’re working together and are willing to face uncomfortable truths. This also means we have chance to look at the opportunities the future can bring – without being naive’ – Matthias Olthaar, professor of Green Logistics.