Haarlem transforms old building into sustainable visitor hub using recycled materials
Haarlem is renovating the NME building in Haarlemmer Kweektuin with reused materials, cutting waste and CO₂ emissions. Residents can soon visit a new sustainability center for tips on greening the city and energy transition, set to open in early 2027.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Project | Sustainable renovation of NME building |
| Location | Haarlemmer Kweektuin, Haarlem |
| Start Date | March 2026 |
| Completion | First quarter of 2027 |
| Materials Used | Reused and natural materials |
| New Function | Visitor center for sustainability |
| Topics Covered | Greening, material reuse, waste, energy |
| Initiated by | Alderpersons Robbert Berkhout & Eva de Raadt |
| Broader Initiative | Aligns with Amsterdam Metropolitan Area agreements on material reuse |
| More Info | Haarlem.nl |
The Municipality of Haarlem is responsible for urban development and sustainability initiatives within the city. This project reflects its commitment to circular construction practices and public engagement in environmental efforts.
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New NME Building with Reused Materials
The NME building in the Haarlemmer Kweektuin is being sustainably renovated. Work began in early March. This project demonstrates how we approach demolition and construction differently.
During the demolition of the NME building, we are identifying materials that can be reused in the new building or in another project. Reusing materials reduces waste and lowers carbon dioxide emissions. It also decreases the need for new raw materials.
What we are doing
The ground floor will become a visitor center. It will be the place where Haarlem residents can find inspiration and ask questions about making the city more sustainable and greener. Topics may include greening and nature, material reuse, waste, and transitioning to energy sources other than gas.
The building will be constructed as much as possible using natural materials, with plenty of space for greenery. We expect the renovated building to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.
Celebratory kickoff
On Wednesday, March 11, 2026, the start of work on the NME building was celebrated alongside alderpersons Robbert Berkhout and Eva de Raadt. They helped the children present build a marble run using leftover materials.
More projects
In other construction and demolition projects, we are also exploring how to reuse as many materials as possible. This aligns with agreements made in November 2025 with other municipalities and parties in the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area (MRA).
For more information about the project, visit the page Duurzame renovatie NME-gebouw Haarlemmer Kweektuin
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