Strategic consulting firm nlmtd has intentionally designed a workplace that embraces circularity. In collaboration with NORNORM, they created an office that is flexible, asset-light, and environmentally conscious. Pieter Paul Van Oerle, founding partner of nlmtd, and Patrick Nijssen, country manager for the Netherlands at NORNORM, share their insights on the importance of circularity and what organizations need to do to adopt it.
“It is clear that current linear business models are completely unsustainable,” says Pieter Paul van Oerle. “They deplete the earth’s materials and energy resources, which is ultimately self-serving. I am convinced that we need to transition as many industries to circular models as possible.”
Based on this conviction, nlmtd focuses exclusively on issues that positively impact sustainability, the energy and food transitions, and digitalization. For example, the consulting firm is actively involved in the energy transition by supporting Gasunie in developing new sustainable energy solutions, such as heat and hydrogen, as fossil gas is gradually phased out.
Driven by the belief that only fully circular models can significantly reduce waste in the world, nlmtd has partnered with NORNORM, which offers fully circular and scalable office furniture as a service. This decision was both practical and principled. “If you are serious about sustainability, you need to let go of the idea that you want to own everything,” states Van Oerle.
The hybrid work model demands scalability
The two organizations not only share a common sustainability vision but also their workspace, which is naturally furnished by NORNORM. By using circular office furnishings, the consulting firm reduces its CO2 emissions by approximately 79.5%, resulting in yearly savings of around 2,700 kg of CO2.
Both companies are based at EDGE Olympic in Amsterdam, which is recognized as one of the most sustainable buildings in the Netherlands. NORNORM’s concept aligns perfectly with nlmtd’s hybrid and dynamic work model, which requires flexibility in adapting the office layout as the team expands and needs evolve.
Nijssen explains, “The nlmtd team works from the office, at client sites, and remotely from home. This means our staffing and requirements are constantly changing, which our dynamic setup accommodates effectively.”
From workplace to system vision
For both parties, the focus extends beyond just the workplace or furniture. “What I find appealing about collaborating with nlmtd,” says Nijssen, “is their underlying vision. They view circularity not as a singular project but as a new approach to systems. That’s where the real change occurs.”
Van Oerle adds that achieving circularity requires fundamental decisions in the supply chain, governance, and collaboration. “I don’t believe we will ever attain complete circularity in every aspect. However, if we can make even half of the industrial cycle circular, it would represent a significant step forward for the planet.”
Office as a living lab for change
Van Oerle describes the collaboration with NORNORM as “our own Living Lab.” He states, “We aim to demonstrate and inspire organizations about what is possible.” He further explains, “This initiative shows that there are already numerous small steps organizations can take. For instance, if you relocate to a new office, you can ensure that all your furniture is circular or sourced as a service. This approach not only offers business advantages but also makes a positive contribution to the planet. So, why not take that step?!”
