Why do we want to green?
More greenery in the city is important to us. It reduces heat in the summer and increases water retention when it rains. Additionally, it is good for biodiversity: more different species of plants and animals appear. Research shows that people become happier with more greenery. Greenery on facades and roofs can also lead to lower energy costs through better insulation.
What can we green?
The students proposed 4 types of greening, with concrete ideas:
- Green roofs
For example, with grass, flowers, or even small vegetable gardens. This helps against heat and provides more birds and insects. - Green facades
Think of climbing plants against walls or special panels with plants in them. This makes buildings more beautiful and cooler. - Green balconies
Residents can place flower boxes, hanging plants, or herbs on their balcony. The students also have ideas for balcony competitions or workshops. - Green inner gardens and surroundings
Such as vegetable gardens, trees, shrubs, insect hotels, and birdhouses in the shared outdoor space.
What did the students do?
For the SDG Challenge Spring Edition, the students wrote a policy advisory report. This report outlines the effects of certain measures and especially how we and other stakeholders can practically implement them. The students spoke with housing corporations, municipalities, and experts. They also looked at examples from other cities like Amsterdam, Berlin, and Barcelona. Based on that, they devised a three-part action plan:
- Research
They gathered information on green roofs, facades, and balconies. They also looked at who is involved and what their roles are. - Collaboration
They made a plan to improve cooperation between housing corporations, residents, and municipalities. They also thought about how to effectively inform and engage residents. - Measuring and improving
They proposed to keep track of what works and what doesn’t. For example: how much energy is saved, how residents feel, and how many birds and insects are attracted?
On to the final
For the SDG Challenge, students devise solutions for a more sustainable world. They do this for the organization they are connected with. On July 3, 2025, the Gelderland winners will present their plan again in Eindhoven. The winners from other organizations will do the same. We are curious if they will also win the national election with this practical plan they created for us.
