RCE Fryslân

SPARK the Movement is dedicated to advancing education for sustainable development (ESD) in Fryslân and beyond. As a recognized Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE), SPARK connects educators, communities, and organizations to drive transformative learning and action. Through collaboration and innovation, it contributes to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals, fostering a more sustainable and resilient future.

What is an RCE

RCE stands for Regional Centre of Expertise on education for sustainable development. RCEs are endorsed by the United Nations University and form a global network of nearly 200 regions worldwide, including 45 in Europe. These centers bring together businesses, governments, and educational institutions to develop and share knowledge about building a circular economy and a sustainable society.

Fryslân is the only region in the Netherlands recognized as a Regional Center of Expertise (RCE) on Education for Sustainable Development. SPARK is one of the driving forces behind RCE Fryslân, giving our region’s efforts an international platform while helping connect global knowledge and networks to local initiatives.

From sparks to fire A hopeful future. How then?

Our journey

As RCE Fryslan

2019: Initial talks with SWEDESD through RUG/Campus Fryslân, marking our introduction to the RCE Network.

2020: Together with regional educators and youth groups, we decided to apply for recognition as an RCE (Regional Centre of Expertise). Later that year, the full application was submitted.

2021: Officially approved as RCE Fryslân.

2022: In February we hosted the online European RCE Meeting 2022. This meeting lead to a publication highlighting key insights and collaborations. In October there was an in-person follow-up session of the European RCE Meeting 2022 in organized in Fryslân.

2022: Max Eisenbart and Aukje Sina Zijlstra, representing RCE Fryslân, were appointed as European Regional Youth Coordinators for the period 2023–2024.

2023: We co-hosted the European RCE Meeting together with RCE Basque Country – Navarre.

2025: We are honoured to particpate and host four sessions at the Global RCE Conference in Okayama, Japan.

Working with the international network

SPARK the Movement, as RCE Fryslân, engages with the international RCE network, which connects Regional Centres of Expertise across the globe to advance the shared mission of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). Through these collaborations, we contribute to a worldwide exchange of knowledge, ideas, and best practices that help local communities tackle global sustainability challenges.

We actively participate in the coordination and strategic development of the network. SPARK the Movement, RCE Fryslân, is co-chair of the working group on Strategic Partnerships, where we focus on strengthening cross-regional cooperation and opportunities. In addition, we are a member of the working group on Research & Funding, contributing to discussions and actions that support the growth of innovative ESD projects and sustainable financing structures.

A key part of our work lies in strengthening the European RCE network. We believe that collaboration among European RCEs enhances both the reach and the impact of our collective efforts. By sharing expertise, co-developing projects, and facilitating regular dialogue, we help to build a vibrant, supportive, and action-oriented community of educators, researchers, policymakers, and youth leaders across Europe.

Global RCE Conference 2025

We were honoured to represent SPARK the Movement as RCE Fryslân at the 14th Global RCE Conference in 2025, a milestone event marking the 20th anniversary of the global RCE network. The conference brought together Regional Centres of Expertise from around the world to reflect on two decades of collaboration, learning, and collective action toward sustainable development.

A key outcome of the conference was the creation and signing of the Okayama Declaration. This declaration expresses the shared commitment of RCEs worldwide to continue working together for sustainable and inclusive futures, strengthening education, partnerships, and community-driven solutions. Download the declaration and other inspirational documents below.

Okayama Declaration 2025 Global RCE conference report 20 year journey of the Global RCE Network

During the conference, RCEs from different continent came together to exchange experiences and highlight the impact of their work. However, before the conference the RCEs in Europe gathered and creatively bundled their experiences and stories into an Impact Fan, showcasing the diversity, innovation, and real-world impact of RCE activities across Europe.

Curious to explore these inspiring stories and learn how RCEs are making a difference?
Download the Impact Fan stories below.

RCE London - UK RCE Ruhr - Germany RCE Fryslân - The Netherlands RCE Munich - Germany RCE East Midlands - UK RCE Scotland - UK RCE Czechia RCE Poland RCE Belarus RCE Hamburg - Germany RCE Basque Country Navarre - Spain and France RCE Graz-Styria - Austria RCE Brittany - France RCE Oldenburger Munsterland - Germany