The InterPOMday began with an introduction by the five POM directors, who shared their provincial operations, challenges, and ambitions. A playful note was added by guessing the directors' favorite meals, travel destinations, films, and music, which sparked much enthusiasm. Subsequently, colleagues from across Flanders presented their approaches and insights in two rounds themed around water, fire, earth, and air.
POM West-Vlaanderen presented three projects illustrating collaboration with companies, knowledge institutions, and governments for a sustainable economy. The concept 'Bedrijventerreinen van de Toekomst' (Business Parks of the Future) focuses on the structural sustainability of existing parks, addressing mobility, energy, water management, and climate adaptation. An example is the Avelgem Industriezone, where a transition plan is leading to safer cycling connections, more green spaces, and water retention.
Through Blue Accelerator, companies and knowledge institutions are offered test infrastructure on the North Sea to trial new maritime technologies, such as floating solar panels and autonomous drones. In addition to the existing test tower off the coast of Oostende, work is underway on an additional measuring buoy and an offshore platform further at sea.
Another project by POM West-Vlaanderen concerns the sustainable decommissioning of the first generation of offshore wind turbines. A strategy is being developed that integrates technical, economic, and ecological aspects, supported by an interactive 3D tool mapping the consequences of different decommissioning scenarios.
The day concluded with artist Koen Vanmechelen's keynote 'The Chicken's Appeal'. He emphasized the power of diversity and connection for strong, resilient communities, illustrated by his Cosmopolitan Chicken Project. Vanmechelen views diversity as a source of renewal and growth, a message aligning with the work of the five POMs, each with their unique economic challenges and ambitions.
