Competences of the professional of the future in the circular economy: Evidence from the case of Limburg, Belgium

A sufficient amount of professionals (quantity) with the right competences (quality) is needed to make the transition to a circular economy happen. An important task for higher education institutions (HEIs) is to (re)train professionals towards the competences required by employers. This study determines the relevant competences within the local aspiration of Limburg (Flanders, Belgium) becoming a circular economy and educating for sustainable development. First, roadmaps, literature and vacancies were analyzed to make an inventory of possible competences. Second, a focus group was organized with representatives of companies and company federations to make a first selection of the most relevant competences for the circular economy. Third, companies were asked to rank technical, valorization and transversal competences using best-worst scaling (BWS). The results show that transversal competences and valorization competences are equally important as technical competences for a circular economy. This study contributes to a better harmony between educational programmes of higher education institutions (HEIs) and the competence needs of businesses within the context of the circular economy.