Quantum technology is still in an early stage of development, but is already becoming concrete in sub-areas. In addition, the government has designated quantum technology in the National Technology Strategy (NTS) as one of the ten priority key technologies. The key technology is of strategic importance for the Netherlands and has a positive impact and unique position, also in the context of recent geopolitical developments. Investing in knowledge and/or availability of quantum technology in time in the context of strategic autonomy for the Netherlands and Europe is urgent and important. That is why it is essential to be part of the Dutch ecosystem for quantum technology at an early stage. In order to explore the applications for positive impact, additional knowledge is needed. It must be considered for which organizational issue quantum technology can help and which ethical, legal and social aspects are involved. In this way, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management (IenW) can involve colleagues from business operations, policy, implementation and inspection in the developments in a timely manner and build on the innovative character of IenW. In 2024, a collaboration was therefore started between IenW, the Centre for Quantum and Society of Quantum Delta Netherlands and TNO to inventory the opportunities offered by the technology and which non-technical aspects can be addressed in the future. Exploratory workshops were carried out for a number of directorates-general, Rijkswaterstaat and the Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency, after which, depending on the outcomes and based on available capacity and the timeline, a decision was made to deepen the technical aspects and/or explore the impact on ELSA aspects (Ethical, Legal & Societal Aspects).

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