Citizens' Climate Assembly at SAWA Building a Greener Future for Rotterdam

By 2030, our streets and neighborhoods must be greener and healthier for all Rotterdam residents. The Municipality of Rotterdam is working hard on this, but much remains to be done. For this reason, they are seeking creative ideas and solutions from Rotterdam residents, and the Municipality of Rotterdam has appointed the Citizens' Climate Assembly. The Citizens' Assembly comprises 117 diverse Rotterdam residents, young and old, from various districts and backgrounds. They contribute their experiences as urban dwellers and advise the municipality on how climate goals can be achieved.

In six meetings (from April through September), the Citizens' Assembly convenes to gain knowledge about climate and collaboratively devise solutions for a greener and healthier city.
Last Saturday, an excursion was on the agenda, during which the Citizens' Assembly visited SAWA. During this excursion, Mark and Robert presented the SAWA concept, gave a tour of the construction site, and engaged in discussions with the members. The reactions were exceptionally positive and full of praise. For many, SAWA proved to be an inspiring example of how future construction projects in Rotterdam should be designed. Particularly the use of timber construction and SAWA's impact on CO₂-reduction were appreciated. Furthermore, the members were particularly enthusiastic about SAWA's socially inclusive aspect and how the building contributes to greater social cohesion in the neighborhood.