The availability of critical resources for a competitive price is a fast-growing concern for business and industry but also for governments all over the world. As the Dutch economy depends very heavily on the availability of many different resources, an early and sustainable response from business and industry is necessary. Companies can stepwise reduce their vulnerability by first analyzing their specific situation regarding critical resources, second by developing a resource strategy, and third by innovating. Innovation can result in more and further reuse or in developing alternatives for less readily available or expensive resources.

For our business and industry, these developments require knowledge and awareness about ‘what's really going on in the resource business’.

With this excellent publication Resources for our Future TNO and HCSS explore the implications of recent developments and inspire entrepreneurs to start a journey in the world of resources. The publication gives practical examples of how entrepreneurs deal with issues of scarcity of raw materials, and how they make their businesses more economically sustainable. I support their ideas on how to tackle problems with security of supply of critical resources, and I commend their creative and innovative approach with new business models.