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Gijs Langeveld
Solid Waste, Resources & Circular Economy
Professional Background
Gijs Langeveld is a dynamic and innovative principal consultant at Project Gijs BV, where he specializes in the fields of circular economy and waste management. His extensive expertise encompasses a wide array of areas including waste collection, sorting, recycling systems, value chain analysis, behavioral change, and change management. Gijs employs a consultative approach that is structured in stages to engage stakeholders effectively, ensuring that projects not only meet their objectives but are also implemented on a larger scale, contributing meaningfully to the communities involved.
Throughout his career, Gijs has partnered with numerous international organizations, such as the World Bank and UNICEF, as well as prominent multinationals and business support organizations like KIDV and VA. His impressive portfolio includes successful collaborations with national governments and municipalities in cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam. His work spans both developed and developing markets, having conducted projects across Europe, India, Pakistan, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Ecuador, and Peru. This diverse experience has positioned him as a leader in the realm of sustainable waste management and circular economies worldwide.
Gijs's approach to projects is multifaceted, often integrating innovation into existing waste systems. By focusing on improving recycling rates and enhancing waste management practices, he has made a tangible impact on urban living and environmental sustainability. This is particularly evident in his initiatives aimed at upgrading waste systems and influencing public behavior regarding waste management in densely populated urban areas.
Education and Achievements
Gijs has an esteemed academic background, having obtained two Master's degrees from Utrecht University. He completed his Master's in Economics & Geography with a focus on International Economics, as well as a Master's in Human Geography concentrating on International Development. This strong foundation in economics and human geography equips him with the critical analytical skills necessary for addressing complex challenges in waste management and circular economy strategies.
Gijs has been recognized for his contributions to the field as a respected speaker at various international events. His ability to inspire audiences and facilitate discussions on the transition towards a circular economy marks him as a prominent figure in sustainability. As a skilled designer and moderator of panel discussions and workshops, including those hosted by BeWasteWise, Beyond Food Waste, and ISWA, Gijs engages with thought leaders and stakeholders to foster productive conversations and drive actions towards sustainability.
Notable Projects
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Community of Practice for Multilayer Flexible Plastic Packaging in a Circular Economy: In collaboration with KIDV, Gijs led this initiative that brought together major industry players including PepsiCo, Unilever, Friesland Campina, Intersnack, Mars Wrigley, and Jacobs Douwe Egberts to innovate the recycling processes for multilayer flexible plastics, aiming to improve circularity in packaging.
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Behavioral Science and Waste Management: Gijs worked with Rijkswaterstaat and various municipalities to develop intelligent tools designed to enhance recycling rates in urban settings characterized by high density. By applying behavioral science, he focused on incentivizing residents to participate actively in recycling programs, contributing to more sustainable urban waste management practices.
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Waste and Refugees: Addressing urgent needs in North Jordan, Gijs spearheaded a project dedicated to improving solid waste management in refugee camps such as Za´Atari and Azraq, as well as surrounding municipalities. Collaborating with VNG-International, UNHCR, and UNICEF, this initiative aimed to develop sustainable waste management practices tailored to the unique challenges faced by refugee populations.
Summary
Gijs Langeveld stands out as a leading voice in the fields of circular economy and waste management, dedicating his career to spearheading transformative projects that yield lasting impacts on societies and environments alike. With a strong academic foundation, extensive practical experience, and a passion for innovation, Gijs is well-equipped to tackle the challenges of modern waste management and sustainability. His commitment to fostering collaboration and stakeholder engagement in all his endeavors drives positive outcomes in both urban and rural settings, promoting resilience and sustainability for future generations.
