Schouwburgplein in Rotterdam: pilot zone for climate-proof, circular cities

The program provides solutions for transport, the environment, water supply, urban planning, existing buildings and livability, for example. It is aimed at integrated solutions for energy management, cyclical processes and green-blue design. Smart grids come to mind and the generation, storage and exchange of energy, grey water, green roofs and other new technologies applicable by and for all the people living, working and enjoying leisure time in this area. 

Economic benefits

Participation in the program promises not only environmental but also economic benefits, such as lower energy costs thanks to energy savings. 

Ambitious

Collaboration and participation by all partners and stakeholders in the area is both essential and unique on such a scale. The ambition of 7 Square Endeavour is to interlink all the (existing) initiatives, know-how, interests and expertise in order to jointly arrive at new developments. Arcadis is responsible for the program management and communication on behalf of 7 Square Endeavour. After analyzing the energy and water consumption data for the Schouwburgplein, we worked together with the area partners to translate this into a strategy of concrete targets in order to develop an energy-neutral and climate-adaptive square. Business cases were used to determine which buildings were suitable for sustainable, multifunctional roofs offering space for greenery, water storage, generation of energy and community use.

Lessons learned from experience now bundled in a booklet

Parties with ambitions in terms of climate adaptation and energy transition have shown great interest in what is being achieved in Rotterdam. Reason therefore for 7 Square Endeavour to summarize the lessons learned from practical experience in the past three years in a handy booklet. The booklet can be downloaded here.