Hugo Polman
5.2. Expectations and potential tensions with other subsystems
Up until now the subsystem accommodate community has had a focus toward accommodations within the design challenge. However, if the accommodation on Texel gradually changes, other subsystems are likely to change with it. This means that, although the current change in this sub-system might work, it could have negative impact on another subsystem. At the same time there is also the possibility that it improves another subsystem.
Since the tourism on the island will grow, the same will happen with the consumption and waste. The island will need more food, water and energy. This doesn’t necessarily have to be a problem, but these subsystems need to be prepared for this change. At the same time, the amount of waste will also grow.
Positive change might also happen. Since more tourism will appear and the interaction between tourists and locals will improve, people may become interested in starting a business on Texel, improving the sustainable entrepreneurship and the economy. The government should pay attention that these new businesses won’t take over and that they have sustainable intentions.
A collaboration between two subsystems is also a possibility. For example, for the subsystem education to improve, more buildings are needed to teach students. The academic season is usually in the off-season, meaning that at this moment a lot of the tourist accommodation is empty. The empty accommodations could be used to teach students and the tourist attractions, such as restaurants and bars, could cater to these students.
Overall, the changes in accommodation offer opportunities, but it mostly increases the consumption and waste of the island. The change should take place gradually, so the island is able to handle this increase.