BlueCity is a platform for the circular economy located in former Center Parcs site Tropicana, Rotterdam. It is home to a collective of small businesses operating within a zero waste circular economy, influenced by the Blue Economy. BlueCity was founded in 2015, when the old Tropicana swimming pool was bought at public auction for €1.7 million in 2015. BlueCity is home to more than 40 entrepreneurs who rent a workspace or work in the BlueCity Lab. It is also possible for individuals to rent a workplace in the building.
What is the Blue Economy?
The Blue Economy is an economic model that aims to manage the world's resources in a sustainable and equitable way. It focuses on the ocean's potential to generate wealth, jobs, and innovation, while also preserving the health of marine ecosystems. The Blue Economy is often associated with initiatives that promote sustainable fishing, marine protected areas, and the development of ocean-based industries.
The Birth of BlueCity
In 2015, the old Tropicana swimming pool in Rotterdam was put up for auction. The site had been vacant for some time, and the city was looking for a way to revitalize the area. BlueCity was founded by a group of entrepreneurs who saw an opportunity to create a hub for sustainable businesses and innovation. They purchased the site for €1.7 million and set about transforming it into a vibrant community of entrepreneurs and innovators.
The BlueCity Ecosystem
BlueCity is home to a diverse range of small businesses and startups. These entrepreneurs are working on projects that range from sustainable fashion to organic food production. The BlueCity Lab is a shared workspace that provides access to resources, expertise, and funding for startups. It is also a hub for collaboration and networking, where entrepreneurs can connect with each other and share knowledge and ideas.
Key Features of BlueCity
- Zero waste policy: BlueCity aims to minimize waste and maximize recycling.
- Circular economy: The platform promotes a circular economy model, where resources are kept in use for as long as possible.
- Blue Economy influence: BlueCity is influenced by the Blue Economy model, which focuses on sustainable use of ocean resources.
- Entrepreneurial community: BlueCity is home to a thriving community of entrepreneurs and innovators.
- Shared workspace: The BlueCity Lab provides a shared workspace for entrepreneurs and startups.
Examples of BlueCity Projects
- A sustainable fashion brand that produces clothing from recycled materials.
- An organic food startup that produces and sells healthy snacks.
- A company that develops innovative solutions for waste management.
- A group of entrepreneurs working on a project to create a community garden in the city.
Why BlueCity Matters
BlueCity is an important example of a sustainable and innovative economic model. By promoting a circular economy and a zero waste policy, BlueCity is helping to reduce waste and promote sustainability in the city. The platform also provides a space for entrepreneurs and innovators to connect, collaborate, and share ideas. This can lead to the development of new products, services, and technologies that can help to address some of the world's most pressing challenges.
Relation to Apiary Mission
While the Apiary mission is focused on bee conservation and self-governing AI agents, BlueCity's emphasis on sustainability and innovation may be of interest to readers who are looking for examples of successful sustainable economic models.
FAQ
What is the location of BlueCity? BlueCity is located in the former Center Parcs site Tropicana, Rotterdam.
How many entrepreneurs are working in BlueCity? More than 40 entrepreneurs are working in BlueCity.
What is the Blue Economy? The Blue Economy is an economic model that aims to manage the world's resources in a sustainable and equitable way.
What is the name of the shared workspace in BlueCity? The shared workspace in BlueCity is called the BlueCity Lab.