The Dutch have promoted innovation, advancement, and creativity throughout history in numerous fields. Indeed, the Netherlands is famous around the world for its progressiveness! Thus it only seems sensible that we’ve produced a list of the most progressive actions taken by Dutch people.
1. Get rid of single-use plastics
This is a major issue! In accordance with the EU’s Single-Use Plastics (SUP) regulations, The Netherlands will restrict the creation, import, and sale of practically all single-use plastics as of July 2021.
All of these things, including balloons and silverware, were forbidden (although stores are allowed to sell their current stocks). Do you want to know how much better things get? Also, by 2029, a 90% collection goal for plastic bottles will be reached!
2. Sunlight-powered transportation hubs
Even in the summer, there aren’t many sunny days in the Netherlands, but the country’s residents really love solar-powered vehicles! While Delft Zuid and ProRail are constructing the Netherlands’ first entirely solar-powered train station, Tilburg created a very stylish solar-powered bus terminal.
3. Instead of locking up criminals, rehabilitate them
Ter beschikking stelling (TBS), which translates to “detention under hospital orders,” is a system in the Netherlands that makes sure convicts are rehabilitated in order to reintegrate into society rather than being imprisoned for the entirety of their sentence.
Instead of concentrating solely on punishment strategies, the Dutch prison system seeks to address convicts’ psychological issues as part of the sentence. The outcome? Overall, there were much more prognosticating judgments. 👩⚖️
4. Set an example for same-sex marriage
Let’s not overlook that greatest act for the sake of Dutch tolerance! On April 1, 2001, the Netherlands became the first nation in the world to formally recognize same-sex unions. As a result of this action, Amsterdam now has the highest percentage of same-sex marriages—45 out of every 1,000 married couples identify as LGBT.
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5. Provide new mothers access to a nurse at home
A nurse will be available to new moms through the Kraamzorg program in the Netherlands for up to a week following the birth of their child. The nurse will assist with tasks involving the baby. The Dutchies are being progressive by supporting new mothers and assisting them in quickly getting back on their feet.
6. Let folks know what you think
It’s the fabled Dutch directness, where you could be questioned on the spur of the moment, “Does that disturb you?” if it appears that you are upset. Dutch people are incredibly efficient. Therefore, they don’t waste time talking in circles. Instead, regardless of how crude or abrasive it may be, they’ll tell you precisely what they’re thinking.
7. Realize the significance of bees
With their future vision, the Dutch realized the bee’s critical function in pollination and food supplies long before it was trendy. Whether they do this for the environmental benefit or simply to educate the bees to sniff out diseases in the end. Dutchies are certainly humming with nothing but love for the simple things, whether it’s creating bee-friendly bus stops or maintaining a bee census.
8. Give everyone the option to die
In 2002, the Netherlands made history by becoming the first nation to allow euthanasia. Since then, those who are suffering from a terminal or impending fatal illness have the right to a dignified death.
Understandably, this is highly regulated: patients must discuss their choice with their doctor, and the doctor must adhere to a set of guidelines before fulfilling the patient’s request.
9. Turn aging structures into modern places
Dutch people are experts at do-it-yourself; their larger undertakings involve giving outdated structures a fresh makeover! A post office from 1924 in Utrecht was converted into a contemporary library, while a cathedral from the thirteenth century in Maastricht was transformed into a fantastic bookshop.
A stunning new library that won World Building of the Year status was also built inside the LocHal building in Tilburg, which had previously been an outdated structure.
10. Become 3D printing experts
The Netherlands is incredibly forward-thinking for 3D printing oxygen valves, steel bridges, and even houses. Perhaps it’s in their DNA to be do-it-yourselfers, or maybe it’s just plain genius ingenuity.
11. Choose public transportation and cycling over driving
Dutch cycling is a completely different level of skill than other forms of cycling. But whether you like to walk or bike, you’ll soon realize that the Dutch virtually always favor ANY form of transportation that doesn’t require driving a personal vehicle.
12. A ban on diesel automobiles in urban areas
What’s the greatest strategy to maintain clean air in Dutch cities? Get rid of all diesel products!
The introduction of milieu zones in the Netherlands has resulted in cleaner and fresher air because diesel-powered vehicles—including automobiles, motorcycles, and trucks—are not allowed in some regions.
13. Focus on achieving work-life balance
According to the OECD Better Living Index, the Netherlands has the best work-life balance in the world.
It’s difficult to shift society away from workaholism in today’s fast-paced society. But you can tell a nation is thinking ahead to its citizens’ futures when it mentions important reasons for job absence, like relocation, burnout, or even passing an exam.
