The Jan Altink Bridge of Hoogkerk has become the symbol for the Green Bridge Builders. “We want to connect our village with the surroundings. Like a bridge. Helping each other to make the neighborhood more beautiful, greener, and more sustainable. That’s why we named ourselves the Green Bridge Builders,” says Ceciel Nieuwenhout.  

Doing Something! 

Green Bridge Builders are residents from Hoogkerk and surrounding areas who organize various actions and projects. “We want to motivate people to do something simple in their neighborhood. Greening can start with small steps. That’s why we occasionally distribute plants, organize lectures on how to green your garden or how to maintain your vegetable garden naturally,” says Rutger Noordam. 

“Making your home more sustainable together is easier”  

But they are not afraid of larger projects either. “We are busy with a neighborhood energy plan. We are researching how people in certain streets can make their homes more sustainable as smartly as possible. By doing this together, it becomes easier and cheaper. We are also talking to housing associations about possibilities to insulate rental houses or install solar panels.” 

Dreams for Hoogkerk 

For the future, there are still plenty of dreams and ideas. “A topic that is close to my heart is energy poverty. I think many people who receive subsidies for solar panels can afford this quite easily. But that’s not the case for people with tight budgets. I want to see how we can reach and support them,” says Wim Timmerman. “That’s why I also became an energy coach. You can register for free via grunnegerpower.nl to receive energy advice that you can immediately use.”

Are you joining?  

“To carry out our plans, we are looking for new volunteers who want to think along with us or help with activities. We hope that various people of different ages from Hoogkerk and surrounding neighborhoods will want to join us. This way we know even better what is happening in the neighborhood and what is needed,” continues Wim.  

Really Achieving Something 

“You hear so many negative reports in the news. That it is getting worse for insects and hedgehogs. It is nice to be able to do something in my own neighborhood. It won’t be my fault, that feeling gives me,” says Ceciel enthusiastically. “Additionally, you get to know your neighbors. That’s nice.” “What we do is really visible in the neighborhood. That gives me energy,” Rutger proudly concludes.  

Want to know more? Go to groenebruggenbouwers.nl or email info@vwhoogkerk.nl.  

In the photo: Rutger Noordam, Ceciel Nieuwenhout, and Wim Timmerman.