The story of Nathan Buijs
Nathan is passionate about sustainability. He applies daily the insights he gained during his Industrial Design studies. For him, sustainability goes far beyond the well-known aspects such as CO₂ emissions.
At Invest-NL, Nathan works as an Impact Engineer. In this role, he conducts impact analyses of companies in which Invest-NL might invest. Nathan: “I look at whether the business model fits into ‘the sustainable system of tomorrow’: whether the company complies with (inter)national legislation and what measurable impact the company makes on our impact indicators. These indicators show how a company fits into a carbon-neutral and circular economy, for example by reducing the use of raw materials or supporting biodiversity. Additionally, I assess the performance of our portfolio companies to help them further increase their impact. Finally, I am responsible for further developing our overall impact agenda. That’s a rewarding set of tasks.”
All of this creates a unique and dynamic mix where you encounter companies that give you hope for a better future.
Invest-NL came into my path through a vacancy on LinkedIn. Nathan didn't know Invest-NL yet and decided to do some research: “Impact is our top priority at Invest-NL, which I find very important. Sustainability principles are embedded in every investment that Invest-NL makes. Additionally, Invest-NL invests in radically innovative start-ups, often before they launch their first product to the market. All of this provides a unique and dynamic mix where you encounter companies that give you hope for a better future.”
Investing in this kind of company really takes courage.
Nathan is still very pleased with his choice: “The courage that radiates from the portfolio and the knowledge of the people working for Invest-NL really surprised me. Many of the organizations in Invest-NL's portfolio bring a lot of uncertainty, but if they succeed, we as a society can make great strides towards a more sustainable world. Investing in these kinds of companies truly requires bravery. Additionally, many people at Invest-NL have worked in the corporate world for a long time and come to Invest-NL to make a real difference in their sector. That expertise is impressive, and the fact that such people choose to work for Invest-NL says more than 1,000 words.”
His awareness of societal impact began for Nathan during his Bachelor’s in Industrial Design. And especially how little it (back then) was about sustainability. For Nathan, his studies were an important experience: “I decided never to pursue a job where I wouldn’t contribute to our global sustainability transition. I see that as my mission in life. I am very committed to it and quite critical, both towards my employer and myself.”
Real sustainability goes much further.
He still daily applies the insights he gained during his studies: “In the manufacturing industry, 80% of the impact is determined by design choices related to sustainability. Usually, this refers to CO₂ emissions, raw material and water use, but sustainability goes much further. It also concerns working conditions, livable wages, and human rights. Centering such choices in the primary design and business phase is essential to move towards a carbon-neutral, circular, and fair economy. I always try to incorporate that perspective when evaluating new investments.”