HELLOZUIDAS.COM JANUARY • FEBRUARY 2021
53
‘Zuidas isn’t sustainable enough yet, but we’re making progress’
INTERVIEW WITH DIRK BELJAARTS
CEO of KHN
Bas Reussien City of Amsterdam
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL Goodbye Column: GREY SHAPIRO
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THE NEXT ISSUE IS SCHEDULED FOR THE 1ST OF MARCH
A GREEN ISSUE! Many people I meet in Zuidas say it’s pretty much
Award for the most innovative, impactful or
wall-to-wall concrete, and they’re not far off the
inspiring initiative in Zuidas. Submissions will be
mark. With its tall buildings towering over its
posted on the website www.zuidasduurzaam.nl,
grey streets and squares, the patches of green
grouped around the themes of Mobility, Energy,
don’t quite measure up. And yet, no matter if it’s
Buildings, Water & Greenery, Waste & Circularity,
cold or warm, people flock out to find their own
Society and Public Space. Registration is open
little spot of greenery to sit for lunch or recharge
now! Below, Olivier Otten will tell you more
during a long office day. In our ‘Got a Minute’
about this award.
section, people on the street share their favourite sustainable spot in Zuidas.
2020 was a tough year for many business owners, employees and employers. I hope we’ll be able to
This first issue of the new year is all about
continue working together in sustainable ways and
sustainability. Almost every business in Zuidas
ensure there are still plenty of spots to go around
is engaging with this theme in one way or
for everyone in Zuidas. Including those for whom
another, whether they’re using solar panels
the going is rough right now.
or geothermal heat pumps, have a green roof or are cutting down on plastic. Buildings are
Happy reading!
being built more sustainably, offices are going greener, and this year Green Business Club
Romy Lange
Zuidas, Hello Zuidas and the Zuidas district will
Editor-in-chief Hello Zuidas
be presenting the first-ever Zuidas Sustainability
r.lange@zuidaspublishers.nl
Every year, we join forces with Green Business Club and Zuidas (City of Amsterdam) to identify companies and property developers that are sustainability leaders in Zuidas. A jury selects the most exemplary projects/ cases to receive the annual Zuidas Sustainability Award. Will your organization be among the winners in 2021? Read more about it on page 60 of this issue, in which we zoom in on Sustainability. We’ll take you on a tour of plans, long-term perspectives and promising sustainable projects in and beyond Zuidas! Olivier Otten, managing director of Hello Zuidas
•3
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CONTENTS 06 10
Coverstory Bas Reussien Zuidas biodiversity adviser for the City of Amsterdam Building the Future - Over 200 social rented apartments for first-timers - The Newton apartment complex comes to kop Zuidas. - From jungle to design roof garden on the ITO Tower
13 Column Greg Shapiro 14 Hello You End-Of-Year Meeting 16 Property Founding Father ABN AMRO leaving and staying 19 How do you look today? With Miranda van CommenĂŠe, Stylist & Personal Shopper 20 Got a minute The favourite sustainable spot in Zuidas
23 Share #Zuidas Social Media 24 Mobility Greening cate ring logistics 26 Hello Zuidas Agenda 30 Sustainability Special 30 Hello Zuidas - Green Business Club 32 Stibbe 34 ENGIE 36 Savills 38 Goede Doelen Loterijen 40 EDGE 42 Accenture 44 Hello Zuidas - Sustainability 46 Studio Gyzell 47 VU Amsterdam 49 Soundless Acoustics International 50 Legal News Dentons introduces Diverse Excellence Scholarship in the Netherlands
52 Courtesie International Business Affairs The specialist for all your language needs 54 Architecture Van der Valk Hotel 56 FM Platform Interview with Dirk Beljaarts 58 City of Amsterdam Interview with Josja van der Veer and Frank Tazelaar 60 Sustainability Award 62 Finance News Biodiversity loss shakes up financial sector and hits home in Zuidas 64 New artwork stands tall in Courthouse forecourt 66 Memoboard 68 Meet the Chocolatier Interview with Hikmat Neazi, owner of Leonidas
With an excellent business climate, world-renowned educational institutions within reach, and leading companies in many sectors from many countries, Zuidas has huge potential. The foundation Hello Zuidas contributes to Zuidas by realizing a well functioning area. The goal is to promote a district that has international appeal, and high quality working and living conditions. •5
BAS REUSSIEN • CITY OF AMSTERDAM
‘Zuidas isn’t sustainable enough yet, but we’re making progress’ Bas Reussien, Zuidas biodiversity adviser for the City of Amsterdam
Sustainability is a word you hear everywhere these days. But how can a place like Zuidas, with all its bricks and mortar, become sustainable and create enough biodiversity? Hello Zuidas talked to Bas Reussien, Zuidas biodiversity adviser for the City of Amsterdam. He answered this question and explained his role in Zuidas. What does sustainability mean to you?
prepare a plan to minimize and compensate that. Together with my
‘Sustainability is a broad concept. Most people immediately
colleagues I also draft requirements on nature-inclusive designs for
associate it with solar panels, windmills and plastic recycling. For
property developers, like adding nesting boxes and planting. That
me, sustainability is fundamentally about preserving of what’s
way, all these projects can contribute to a sustainable ecosystem.
good, while at the same time creating something long-lasting and
In my job I’m actively involved with that, and fortunately designers
self-perpetuating, so we humans don’t always have to intervene.
are also starting to approach me directly to get my input on their
That’s also how I define sustainability in my job: to create an
plans for public spaces at an early stage, so we don’t have to
ecosystem in Zuidas for animal and plant species that are native to
backtrack later.’
this area and can survive here.’
Two new apartment blocks are going up Can you name some examples?
in Beatrixpark. What are the requirements there?
‘We still have quite a few places in Zuidas with bats. They’re a great
‘The standars are very high. Take the lighting, where I’m trying to
species for keeping insect populations in check. They eat thousands
require the least possible amount of reflection on the water. In
of mosquitoes nightly, so they don’t bother us. And we don’t need
their plans, the designers will have to figure out how to achieve
to take as many measures to combat mosquitoes as a pest. Nature
that. Keeping some areas of total darkness is vital for bats,
maintains her own balance. By helping bats, they help us in turn. The
especially over the water. My time and energy also go into mapping
same goes for common swifts, that fly over from Africa every spring
biodiversity in Zuidas so we know up front to watch for and we’ll be
to nest in cracks of old buildings. But due to stringent sustainability
able to assess the results afterwards.’
requirements for building insulation, there are fewer suitable places left for them. We’re helping these swifts find nesting spots by
Is sustainability being picked up by the construction industry?
installing nesting boxes on many new buildings.’
‘Absolutely. Fortunately, lots of developers have really great ideas. But in the end they often still opt for things like solar panels to meet
Can you tell us more about your job as biodiversity adviser?
standards, despite starting out with ambitious plans for, say, green
My job straddles multiple tasks, but I spend a big chunk of my time
roofs. We’re hoping to challenge developers to explore and come
on various projects in Zuidas. I make sure none of them go against
up with new ideas. An example of which is The Puls, a new building
nature conservation law. With any kind of spatial development,
with an angled strip of solar panels running above the windows so
you also need to examine its effects on protected animal and
that space on the roof – on the ninth floor – can be turned into a
plant species. Bats that feed along Boelegracht have to be able to
mini forest. That’s fantastic.’
continue doing so. The municipality and Zuidas want to preserve and bolster these sites. I help projects to arrange for studies so
How does your assistance work?
they can obtain the permits they need. If research shows a certain
‘For new parcels to be issued we draw up a building envelope
development will negatively impact a protected species, I help
covering all policy rules and our requirements and wishes on all
Text Nicole Pak • Photography Michael Graste
•7
aspects like parking, lighting, energy use, building heights and
produce lots of nectar and pollen. And every additional nesting
sustainability. We also ask developers to think from the outset
box counts, every plant on a roof counts, so if we all do that, we’ll
about how urban wildlife might make use of the building, to make
create an ecosystem in which we all want to live and work.’
the building a genuine link in the local ecosystem. We evaluate the plans from time to time and add our input. I look at the quality
What more would you like to accomplish in Zuidas?
of the green spaces and wildlife measures, and at its underlying
‘Zuidas’ image now is of a concrete jungle populated only by business-
philosophy. Nature-inclusive construction is different for each
types, and not so much a green space with nature. I hope we can work
project, and I add municipal and district guidelines to the mix. In
towards making it a place people see as a beautiful green setting that
Zuidas we’re also incrementally raising the sustainability bar a little
is pleasant to live in, and where it’s nice to stroll round during lunch
higher than for the rest of Amsterdam.’
breaks. Biodiversity has to become a standard part of all property development, so that in ten years’ time we can welcome back animal
Is Zuidas sufficiently sustainable?
species that were long gone, bringing house sparrows and swifts back,
‘No, we can do a lot better, although I do think we’ve made good
and that our efforts will have really made a difference. We’ve got the
progress. My job and that of landscaping and tree advisers was
right impetus and mindset now, so let’s use it!’
the result of the designers’ ambition to be green, biodiverse and sustainable in their work. They needed help with that. That’s what
Bas Reussien
brought me here, a couple years ago. Developing new buildings takes years, so the requirements and wishes I’ve set for biodiversity will be unfolding in the years to come. I’m confident they’ll positively impact the Zuidas ecosystem.’
Age 30
There are strict requirements for all new construction,
Home Diemen
but how does it work with old buildings?
Hobbies
Bird tracking (bird ringing), long walks outdoors,
‘Although we can’t set high sustainability standards for old
but also hanging out at home watching Netflix
buildings, there’s still plenty that can be done. Adding green roof
series with my girlfriend.
and façade systems, for instance, like sedum underneath solar panels, or more nesting boxes for birds. Sedum are tiny succulents
Favourite spot in Zuidas
that can do well on rooftops, that are often hot and dry. They’re
Beatrixpark
low-maintenance but contribute to the ecosystem, as they still
8•
BUILDING THE FUTURE
OVER 200 SOCIAL RENTED APARTMENTS FOR FIRST-TIMERS The De Key housing association is
The City of Amsterdam and De Key
the City. The social rented apartments will
developing a residential tower comprising
recently signed an agreement to this
be in a tower 80 metres in height and are
216 apartments for first-timers. They
effect. Designed by LEVS architects, the
specifically intended for first-timers up to
will be the first of 2,700 apartments to
tower will be called Stepstone. Having
the age of 28. They will be permitted to
be built close to VU Amsterdam in the
received tenders and draft design from
live there for up to five years, after which
years ahead. The apartments are
three Dutch architects’ firms, De Key
the intention is for them to move on to
scheduled for completion in 2024.
selected this design in consultation with
another home.
10 •
BUILDING THE FUTURE
THE NEWTON APARTMENT COMPLEX COMES TO KOP ZUIDAS
GREEN COURTYARD GARDEN, NO CARS The apartments vary in size from 25 sq. m. to 60 sq. m. The
IMPORTANT STEP
complex will have a roof terrace featuring a sports field, a large
The realisation of Stepstone is an important
By 2023, Kop Zuidas is set to have
obliged to build a residential building
courtyard garden, and a communal living room where residents
step in this development. Construction is
another housing block. In The
with apartments here.’ And that was
can meet, organise activities, or work. There will be a storage
expected to start in Q2 2022. It is slated for
Newton, there will be 101 modern
not the only constraint.
area for bikes and scooters but no parking spaces for cars.
completion in 2024.
and energy-efficient apartments.
The building will feature light materials and glass, numerous
Judith Everaers, Kop Zuidas urban
PRECONDITIONS
balconies, and vertical planting along the façades.
designer, explains how the City has
‘There are many other preconditions
SPECS
been involved in the design and
that a design must meet’, continues
The Newton has been designed by
construction.
Everaers. ‘This includes such things as
Diederendirrix architects, and the
the height of the building, the width,
evergreen roof terrace featuring
INNOVATION DISTRICT In alliance with VU Amsterdam and Amsterdam UMC, the
Currently, there is nothing to see
use of materials, water storage, and
plants and bushes was designed
City is developing a completely new neighbourhood, the
of the apartments themselves yet.
planting. Of course, the building needs
by Felixx Landscape Architects
Kenniskwartier (Knowledge Quarter), in this part of Zuidas.
We are now preparing the plot for
to fit into the neighbourhood and
and Planners. The gross floor area
The area is to the south of A10, between Parnassusweg/
construction and working behind
with the water-retardant green strips
of the building will cover a total
Buitenveldertselaan, Amstelveenseweg and A.J. Ernststraat.
the scenes on the latest details and
that are characteristic of Kop Zuidas
of 12,000 sq. m. and there will be
Stepstone will be located on Mahlerlaan, on the area of derelict
the developer COD is developing
and help to drain away the rainwater.’
101 apartments, ranging from
land behind the Hourglass and NoMa House (offices of Loyens
a so-called BLVC plan with the
The energy performance of The
around 46 to 110 sq. m. These will
& Loeff and KraftHeinz) buildings. This is where we are building
contractor. COD did not need to
Newton has also been given additional
be non-subsidised, private sector
the Kenniskwartier – also known as the Innovation District – with
tender and already had the right to
attention. ‘The current requirements
apartments. The triangular plinth
around 2,700 homes. There will also be space for knowledge-
develop this part of Amsterdam on
are designed to ensure the buildings
of the building, located in what will
related businesses, a primary school, culture, and hospitality
Gaasterlandstraat. However, that does
are as energy-neutral as possible, and
be Hogelandplein, also has room
and catering. It will be a neighbourhood that brings together
not give a developer the freedom to
you’re aiming for a situation where a
for commercial accommodation
healthcare, science, and entrepreneurship. However, it will take
decide all of the details themselves.
building generates as much energy as
covering 175 sq. m.
quite some time before this development has been completed.
Everaers: ‘For example, COD was
it consumes.’
Text Jos Moerkamp • Artist Impressions LEVS
• 11
BUILDING THE FUTURE
Amsterdam Zuidas Information Centre Central Hall, WTC
+31 (0)800 50 65 contact@zuidas.nl www.zuidas.nl
Follow on zuidas @zuidasamsterdam
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FROM JUNGLE TO DESIGN ROOF GARDEN
ON THE ITO TOWER
PAULO DA SILVA DIAS & PETER VAN LEEUWEN
Many of the roofs in Zuidas are
and coronavirus are against us, it does
Peter van Leeuwen, owner of roofing
not accessible to the public, which
not take much imagination to envisage
company J. de Kluyver Dakbedekking
is a shame. From the street, for
people enjoying drinks, colleagues
Rhoon, turned out to be a great
example, there is no way of knowing
having lunch on the benches or holding
partner and strategic adviser. Van
that a beautiful new garden has
a company barbecue. There is definitely
Leeuwen: ‘The garden needed to be low
been created on top of the ITO
enough room for all those things
maintenance, modular in construction,
tower in Mahlerplein. We were
without it feeling unwelcoming. ‘It used
easily accessible, attractive to large
permitted to take a look around.
to be like a jungle here’, says Associate
groups, as sustainable as possible and
Director Paulo da Silva Dias, who works
there needed to be a place for a bee
As the sun slowly sets, we are on the
for Savills, the company that manages
hotel. Of course, all of that had to be
terrace section of the new roof garden of
the ITO tower. ‘It still looked nice,
achieved within a set budget.’ Da Silva
the ITO tower. Although the temperature
but a bit wild and much less inviting.’
Dias: ‘Mission accomplished.’
Text Jos Moerkamp • Photography Marcel Steinbach
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COLUMN
Green Credibility Makes Dutch Red in the Face
When you’re living under sea level, perhaps the term
Sustainable investing might not be terribly sexy to most people,
sustainability takes on extra meaning. There are so many
but apparently, it’s sexy in Zuidas. According to I amsterdam: In
Dutch achievements in the area of duurzaamheid that
2020, a number of Dutch investment firms topped the ShareAction
you’d expect Dutch folks to show more national pride.
global sustainability rankings. And the Global Green Finance Index
And yet the Netherlands has been described as ‘the least
named Amsterdam Zuidas as one of world’s best green finance
chauvinistic country in Europe.’ Maybe that’s partly why
centres. Nederland, take more credit!
the ‘Netherlands Second’ video was such a hit here. Dutch
mentality is like: “We don’t need to be first. But we are
I once spoke at the launch of a book of infographics on the SDG
definitely better than the rest.” In essence, the Dutch don’t
Sustainable Development Goals. It was an impressive achievement
like to brag - so I’ll do it for them.
and an impressive stage. But - one after another - the speakers
chose to stand just outside the spotlight. I literally had to step
Internationally, yes the Dutch are quietly known for their masterful
in and nudge the director of the project into the light, so the
water engineering. But you don’t see the Delta Works on Dutch
photographer could get a proper shot of him. Next time I’ll just tell
t-shirts. You don’t see the term Afsluitdijk on bumper stickers. And
him, “It costs a lot of energy to shine that light. The sustainable
what about the Maeslantkering? These gates that protect the Port
choice would be to stand in it.”
of Rotterdam are an engineering marvel, each gate as large as the Eiffel Tower. But – unlike the Eiffel Tower – you don’t see them on
Nederland, you may spend your lives digging channels in the
keychains, coffee mugs or refrigerator magnets. As far as tourists
ground, but you don’t have to act like Mole People.
are concerned, Dutch culture is summed up by the national symbol of the cannabis leaf. Meaning, by default, the most popular form of Dutch water engineering is the bong. A friend of mine from Zuidas was working at a consultancy in the US. He told me the story of how Dutch engineering firm Royal Haskoning was asked to help the US Army Corps of Engineers to prevent hurricane damage to the US coastline. Which was a Big Deal. But reportedly the Dutch management refused to issue a press release, because that would be bragging, aka opscheppen. And in Nederland, if you are ever caught opscheppen, then Zwarte Piet kidnaps you in a sack and takes you to Spain,
Gregory Shapiro (b.1968) is the author of THE AMERICAN NETHERLANDER: 25 Years of Expat Tales and the voice of Trump on ‘Zondag Met Lubach.’ In 2020 he celebrates 25 years as corporate speaker and host. And his mini-show ‘How NOT to Zoom’ is now available for a 5-minute guest appearance in your next videoconference. www.gregshapiro.nl
Photography Jaiwey Nuij
• 13
HELLO YOU
Remco Kappelhof Zuidas Bier
Roaring cats
Reno van Dijk 14 •
HELLO YOU
Hikmat Neazi, Leonidas
Jesse Gosse, Zuidas Bier
The End-Of-Year meeting was held via an online platform on 8 December. Members shared some special stories from the past year and the meeting was capped with a terrific jazz ensemble, made possible in part Liesbeth Perdijk, The Wineboutique & Spirits
by the Grachtenfestival. Meeting participants all received a ‘Zuidas in a box’ gift package containing a selection of local products, compliments of Zuidas Bier and Hello Zuidas. Hello Zuidas also made a video about all the businesses that contributed goodies for the box, offering everyone a glimpse behind the scenes. You can find the video on Hello Zuidas’ online channels.
Lisette Hastie, De Alexanderhoeve
Rudolf Brand, Restaurant CIRCL
Romy Lange, Zuidas Publishers • 15
PROPERTY
Property
#UPDATE ‘FOUNDING FATHER’ ABN AMRO leaving and staying 16 •
PROPERTY
When ABN AMRO announced in late November that it would
trend that’s here to stay. Its office in Zuidoost will have some 6,000
be selling its office in Zuidas, the news came as a shock to
to 7,000 workspaces to accommodate around 11,000 employees.
everyone. ‘Are they leaving?’ The pioneer of Zuidas? Surely
Which departments and how many people will remain in Zuidas is
not! So it was a relief to hear that ABN is staying – sort of.
still undecided. The bank’s executive board will shuttle between
After 2025, most of its staff will be leaving for refurbished
the two locations. Zuidoost will in any case become its primary
premises in Amsterdam Zuidoost. Only the official HQ, with a
office, although the official headquarters will still be in Zuidas.
staff of 1,200, will remain here in Zuidas. Zuidas Master Plan New owner
ABN AMRO can rightly call itself one of the ‘founding fathers’ of
ABN AMRO won’t be leaving the building. Instead, they’ll be selling
Zuidas. It was back in the early nineties that the bank decided
it and leasing it back. When that news went public, telephones at
to relocate its head office from the centre of Amsterdam to a
the bank’s press office began ringing off the hook. The property
then still relatively undeveloped strip between the Prinses Irene
will go on the market in 2021 and after the sale ABN AMRO will lease
neighbourhood and Buitenveldert. ABN AMRO’s arrival provided the
the entire premises from the new owner. However, in 2025 a large
impetus for the city’s Zuidas Master Plan in 1998 and kick-started
portion of its workforce will leave for a completely refurbished
the district’s astounding development over the past twenty years. A
office on Foppingadreef (dubbed ‘the Fop’) in Amsterdam
collection of other offices rose around ABN AMRO’s 104-metre tall,
Zuidoost. Built in 1980, this location will be renovated by property
90,000-square metre tower, at first mostly financial and legal firms.
developer EDGE – a familiar name in Zuidas – together with the
Over those two decades, Zuidas constructed some 1 million square
original architect, BroekBakema.
metres, of which three-quarters comprised office space.
Sustainability and the coronavirus
Big opportunities
According to ABN AMRO, the decision was motivated by multiple
Like ABN AMRO, Zuidas is powering ahead. After 2025, much of
factors. For starters, the bank wants to economize, which will be
the bank’s office premises – literally one minute’s walk from the
achieved partly by shrinking its workforce by 15%. Secondly, the
trains and metros – will be in the hands of a new user. That means
bank has big sustainability ambitions. Following the upgrade, the
big opportunities for organizations looking for a big space. Zuidas
Fop in Zuidoost will consume 75% less energy than the bank’s
meanwhile will be investing heavily over the next twenty years, but
current HQ and its carbon emissions will come in at 50% under the
with a shift in focus: this time three-quarters of the 1 million square
UN Paris Climate Agreement target. The part of the Zuidas office
metres it plans to add will be reserved for housing and amenities.
that ABN AMRO will still occupy after 2025 will also be overhauled
This will see Zuidas continue to grow as both an exceptional and
to bring it up to sustainability standards. Thirdly, the pandemic
perfectly ordinary urban district for all Amsterdam citizens. And
has led ABN AMRO to the realization that working from home is a
ABN AMRO will still be right there in the mix.
Text Zuidas.nl • Photography Marcel Steinbach
• 17
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HOW DO YOU LOOK TODAY?
With Miranda van Commenée, Stylist & Personal Shopper According to Miranda, you never have a second chance to make a first impression. As a stylist, she helps everyone discover and craft their own unique style. ‘The clothes you wear are a reflection of your identity’, Miranda points out. ‘When you wear pieces in the right colours that fit well, you feel more self-assured. And that carries through in your image, both professionally and personally.’ MIRANDA VAN COMMENÉE Who is your style icon? Coco Chanel
JASPER TER STROOT
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What is an absolute don’t, fashion-wise?
Job
Lecturer in business economics at
Online. Offline recently in Den Bosch.
White leggings
St. Ignatius Gymnasium Amsterdam
I also have good memories of Maastricht.
Age
44, married with 2 sons
What is this season’s must-have?
Lives in Diemen, close to the city
Most expensive garment ever?
A blouse, dress or trousers in leather or
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A long winter dress coat by Hugo Boss (650
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Jasper is wearing
Mixing and matching brands across
Chino, colbert, carcaot, coltrui by Atelier
Tie or sneakers?
different price segments.
Munro and shoes by Andrea Ventura.
Sneakers, but I’m all for making ties ‘mandatory’ again at official functions.
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Photography Caily Bobbie Jo
• 19
PUBLIC SPACE
GOT A MINUTE? For quite a few years now, Zuidas has been pursuing a range of sustainability initiatives. By 2030, Amsterdam aims to rank among the top 10 most sustainable urban city centres in Europe. All projects under development in Zuidas are being held to the very highest sustainability standards. We were curious to what extent residents, workers and visitors in Zuidas have noticed all the work going into a sustainable future. We also asked them about their favourite sustainable spot in Zuidas! KIKI DROGE – AGE 32 AND DRIES - ALMOST 2 Project assistant and copywriter at &C Media ‘My favourite part of Zuidas is Beatrixpark. It’s close to where I live and I like taking my son Dries to the paddling pool and playground there. It’s a perfect spot for both kids and parents, because kids can run around freely while we can relax and have a picnic in the grass; so that’s a win-win equation and a nice way to chill out on hot days. Zuidas is noticeably changing. When I started working in Zuidas five years ago, there were loads of cars, bikes and building sites. Now, there are lots more green spaces, parks, tucked-away spots, while cars and bikes are being parked underground. It’s been great to watch that development!’
HERBERT BERGMAN – AGE 34 Facilities coordinator at Stibbe ‘My favourite places are Beatrixpark and the green rooftops! From Photography Caily Bobbie Jo
my office I’ve got a view of Beatrixpark and I love going outdoors
20 •
for a walk to unwind during a busy working day. I’m all for green spaces. Not only are they attractive and restful, they’re also good for the environment and they offer a functional solution. And asides from being good for biodiversity and air quality, green roofs are also necessary for rainwater discharge in densely built-up places like Zuidas. To see that being expanded on this scale, and in coordination with the City of Amsterdam, is definitely a good thing.’
PUBLIC SPACE
PHILIP KUIPERS – AGE 29 Owner of Hedgehog Company I don’t find myself in the Zuidas area regularly, however I did had an appointment here today. I own a sustainable project agency and had a meeting with a potential client about how to reduce their carbon footprint. I believe everyone should contribute to a sustainable future. A friend recently told me about this green strip slowing water run-off, and although it’s adaptation to climate change, I think it’s fantastic what is created here in a part of the city packed with skyscrapers and concrete. Many more places in the city should have more greenery!
KARIN STARREVELD – AGE 33 Communications Manager at ABN AMRO ‘My favourite green spot is Circl, the circular pavilion in Zuidas. As everyone probably knows, its construction is completely sustainable and circular. I love being there as it’s a nice and inspiring place to hold meetings and have lunch. Although not for the moment, of course. Like many people, I’m working from home full time. I now like going to Beatrixpark, around the corner from Zuidas. If you ask me, this is one of the prettiest parks in Amsterdam to go for a walk. I hope that in the course of 2021 we’ll be able to work in the office some more. Meeting colleagues, go for drinks after work... I miss the energy in Zuidas.’
• 21
SOCIAL MEDIA
SHARE #ZUIDAS
YOU CAN FIND ON THESE ONLINE PLATFORMS
www.hellozuidas.com
hellozuidas
@HelloZuidas
@hellozuidas
For employees of
companies who are member of Hello Zuidas, it is possible to join our LinkedIn group or link as a contact.
Download the Hello Zuidas City App Hello Zuidas has an app that allows you to flip through all the Zuidas news!
• 23
MOBILITY
Zuidas Mobility
GREENING CATE to businesses in Zuidas downside is that there are also high logistical costs involved, which have a considerable impact on air quality, carbon emissions and urban congestion. It’s a good thing the district is looking for a more sustainable logistics
The Hello Zuidas Foundation went in search of the ideal partners to roll out a
flow.’ Rosenberg adds, ‘I’m really glad we’re
district-wide approach. The first step is setting up a pilot to distribute food boxes
joining forces to reduce the environmental
packed with local products to Zuidas caterers. Working in partnership with
impact. Supply chain collaboration is key
Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences and the Local2Local digital platform,
here. No one player can do it all by himself.’
superfluous steps can be eliminated from the delivery process. The smaller the delivery distance, the lower the CO2 emissions.
GO LOCAL! A platform like Local2Local is premised on
Hello Zuidas talked to Pauline Rosenberg,
RETHINKING DELIVERY PROCESSES
the need to make the food supply chain a
sustainability adviser at Vermaat Groep,
The basic idea is to shorten the delivery
good deal shorter, greener and more local.
Kees-Willem Rademakers, innovation
process and make it more sustainable.
Local2Local also works with farmers to
coach at the AUAS, and Martin Topper,
According to Rademakers, there are myriad
develop new products aligned to the UN’s
a farmer affiliated with the Local2Local
advantages to buying local products,
sustainable development goals. Martin
platform, about this district-based
including health, sustainability and creating
Topper is one of the farmers who supplies
approach to catering logistics.
more commitment among farmers. ‘The
vegetables to Local2Local. ‘For example,
24 •
MOBILITY
RING LOGISTICS MARTIN TOPPER
KEES-WILLEM RADEMAKERS
PAULINE ROSENBERG
carrots in every colour, beetroot, parsnip,
them involved.’ Caterers and restaurants
players in Zuidas like Circl, Goede Doelen
onions and potatoes.’ He has an extensive
also need to be involved to assess if their
Loterijen and Bolenius. It’s a win for
crop plan to support crop rotation and
menus might have more emphasis on
farmers as well, who will get a fair price for
biodiversity. ‘You’ve got to admit it’s great
local products. Rosenberg continues,
their vegetables.’ Topper agrees. ‘We need
to drive through the polder and know that’s
‘At Vermaat Groep, we always consider
to make a living, and we also want to be
where the carrots grow that end up on your
the most efficient form of transport and
innovative. Now, I’m still dependent on my
plate. We should all be buying more locally.
delivery with each of our suppliers. It’s
exports, but I think we’d all much rather
Sure, it costs a bit more, but it has also
important to have that discussion with all
see Dutch products on Dutch tables!’
been farmed sustainably. We need to start
parties involved, because it’s the only way
taking pride in our Dutch products again!’
we’ll achieve the climate targets together.’
Want to learn more about GETTING EVERYONE ON BOARD
WIN-WIN SITUATION
opportunities for greening
A platform like this serves Zuidas
This is a unique initiative and one that
your catering logistics?
businesses and residents alike,
improves access both to Zuidas and to
Get in touch with the project
Rademakers emphasises. ‘We’re looking for
local produce. ‘This win-win situation
leader for Mobility at Hello Zuidas.
businesses that want to come on board as
dovetails seamlessly with the City of
Rodi van den Bergen
food box pick-up points and play an active
Amsterdam’s own logistics and food
rodi.vandenbergen@hellozuidas.com
role in informing residents and workers
targets’, Rademakers points out. ‘And also
+31 (0)6 36 28 38 38
in Zuidas about this initiative and getting
with the innovative image of sustainable
• 25
AGENDA
Photography Wiebrig Krakau
AGENDA JANUARY • FEBRUARY
EXHIBITION: FRANS HALS
Monday 11 - Thursday 14 January
- ALL CIVIC GUARD PIECES
Every Monday
HORECAVA LIMITED
@Frans Hals Museum
MOVIES FOR EXPATS
@RAI Amsterdam
From 19 September 2020 all Frans Hals’
@Rialto
During these trying times, hospitality-
civic guard paintings are on display at
Would you like to see some of the
sector businesses and their suppliers
the Frans Hals Museum’s Hof location in
beautiful films Rialto is screening, but
need to pull together more than ever.
Haarlem. Don’t miss this unique chance
you don’t understand all these foreign
Hence this special, smaller, one-off
to admire – and compare – all of Hals’
languages, and you cannot read Dutch
edition of Horecava Limited, aimed at
group portraits of civic guard companies
subtitles? Here are some great films Rialto
helping hospitality businesses bolster
side by side in one place. Take a fresh
screens that come with English subtitles,
their prospects for the future. Invitations
perspective and see more! More info and
or are English spoken. More info:
to the live event will be limited, but
ticket sales: www.franshalsmuseum.nl.
www.rialtofilm.nl
you can also attend Horecava Limited virtually via the platform horecava.nl. More info: www.horecava.nl.
Tuesday 2 February TAXCI AFTER LUNCH SESSION: THE VALUATION OF SOFTWARE ACCORDING TO DUTCH GAAP @WTC During the TAXci After Lunch Sessions the consultants of Tax Consultants Friday 15 January
International will update you on a range
MASTERCLASS: SUSTAINABLE CHANGE
of specific topics during a 30-minute
@Virtual classroom
presentation, after which there will
Climate change is recognized worldwide as the single biggest business risk (World
be sufficient time for you to raise any
Economic Forum, 2020). For organizations to stay successful, sustainability and
specific questions which you may have
innovative clout are key. Although many organizations are addressing these topics,
and to make your personal acquaintance
non-financial aspects are often still far from being integrated in goal-setting and
with the speaker and his/her colleagues.
decision-making. Making the necessary changes won’t be easy, but it will certainly be
For registration visit:
relevant and inspiring! More info: www.circl.nl.
www.taxci.nl/after-lunch-sessions.
26 •
AGENDA
Photography Hans Roggen
Send your agenda to info@zuidaspublishers.nl.
Tuesday 2 February OUR PLANET, OUR BUSINESS @Circl What is the role of a circular economy in the reset of the system and how to
Friday 5 February YOUR CAREER WITH IMPACT! @Circl More than ever, the coronavirus pandemic has crystallized how necessary
accelerate action for change? How does
Thursday 4 February
advanced training and retraining is for
a circular economy contribute to the
CONCERTGEBOUWORKEST PLAYS
the workforce. With unemployment
climate crisis and ecological crisis? What
PROKOFIEV’S SYMPHONY NO. 5
rising and differences between sectors
else is needed to tackle the global issues?
@Concertgebouw Amsterdam
growing, the job market is on the cusp of
Which prime sectors and actors will help
Prokofiev’s Fifth is one of the pinnacles
fundamental changes, according to the
implementing the transition that is needed
of the orchestra repertoire: epic, thrilling
World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs
so much? How is the Netherlands doing
and brilliantly orchestrated. Composed
Report. Jobs will disappear, but new
in terms of sustainable action and policy
near the end of WWII, the symphony is
ones are being created – and many of
making and how can we learn from other
‘a hymn to free and happy Man, to his
them will require different skill sets. The
countries? In this event, they Marc de Witt
mighty powers, his pure and noble spirit’.
clear gap between the skills of today’s
(strategic alliances Circle Economy) will
While living up to what was expected
workforce and those needed tomorrow is
give an inside look at the key leverages
of a Soviet composer, it’s shot through
threatening to split the labour market in
for change. Besides, he will explain how
with Prokofiev’s characteristic strange
two. Want to learn more about the skills
circularity can contribute to fight global
distortions and wry humour. More info:
and jobs of the future? Sign up now on:
warming. More info: www.circl.nl
www.concertgebouw.nl.
www.circl.nl.
HELLO ZUIDAS EVENT
Thursday 4 February HELLO ZUIDAS FM-PLATFORM Photography Marcel Steinbach
Strategic Environment Manager Nienke Mulder will provide us with some insights on the Zuidasdok program. opportunities and threats for caterers in Zuidas when it comes to sourcing local food with zero-emission supplies will be discussed. To learn more about the FM-Platform, send an email to project leader Fouad Benaya at: fouad.benaya@hellozuidas.com.
• 27
AGENDA
AGENDA JANUARY • FEBRUARY
Friday 5 - Sunday 7 February
Through Sunday 14 February
LITTLE ITALY TASTE & TRAVEL
EXHIBITION: VAN GOGH INSPIRES
@Westergas
Through Wednesday 10 February
JEAN-LUC MYLAYNE
Little Italy Taste & Travel hopes to return
EC SAND SCULPTURES FESTIVAL
@Van Gogh Museum
to its great location in the Zuiveringshal
@Zandvoort aan Zee
The Van Gogh Museum and Huis Marseille
at the Westergas in Amsterdam. This
Zandvoort aan Zee once more hosts the
join hands to present three works by
unique event centres on travelling and
European Sand Sculpture Championship
Jean-Luc Mylayne. Like Van Gogh,
tasting Italy, with workshops and tastings
and festival, featuring metres-tall
Mylayne seeks to express the connection
of regional products, as well as travel
sculptures rising from the sand. This
he feels to nature through his work, and
agencies and top accommodations
year’s theme is ‘Zandvoort Goes Wild’. Six
Van Gogh and his love of nature form a
presenting attractive holiday offers. A
selected artists created sand sculptures
special source of inspiration for Mylayne.
food market, live entertainment, design
around this theme and a new Euro
For this presentation, the Van Gogh
and fashion stands and local eateries
champion was announced by a jury on 18
Museum made a special selection of
complete the Italian ambiance. www.
October 2020. The sculptures will remain
three photographs by Mylayne. More info:
littleitaly-event.nl.
on view through 10 February 2021.
www.vangoghmuseum.nl.
18 & 25 February Thursday 18 February ENERGY TRANSITION THURSDAY #10: ENERGY TRANSITION DEBATE @Circl/Online
BUSINESS ENGLISH WORKSHOP @Taalcentrum-VU English fluency is crucial in international
Elections for the Dutch House of Representatives are right around the corner. In March 2021,
business. Would you like to communicate
we’ll head to the polling stations to cast our votes on key issues, including the direction of
more effectively with your English-speaking
energy and climate policy. Four years ago, the elections led to a coalition agreement with
clients? Taalcentrum-VU’s language
plans for a Climate Agreement. What can we expect this time around, and what are the
experts are here to help! Our Business
choices? What’s actually in all the parties’ election programmes? And how can we best
English workshop will boost your fluency in
use the period up to 2025 to achieve energy and climate targets? In this ETT special, sitting
no time. The workshop covers two full days,
and candidate MPs will tackle these questions in a debate. Keep an eye on this page for
from 9.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.. Register now at:
programme updates, and sign up now for the online session on www.circl.nl.
www.taalcentrum-vu.nl/zakelijk-engels.
28 •
AGENDA
Photography Evert Elzinga
Graphic Peter Verheul
Send your agenda to info@zuidaspublishers.nl.
Through Thursday 4 March EXHIBITION: LETTERS OF ART NOUVEAU
Through Sunday 11 April
Through Monday 31 May
@Allard Pierson Museum
EXHIBITION: HISTORY & ROYALTY.
EXHIBITION: THE ART OF THE BRICK
Art Nouveau around 1900 wasn’t just
600 YEARS OF HISTORY
@Kalverpassage
for the wealthy: this flamboyant style
@De Nieuwe Kerk
The acclaimed exhibit The Art of the
was also visible in the streets. In the
De Nieuwe Kerk Amsterdam’s latest
Brick is on view for a limited time in
exhibition Letters of Art Nouveau, the
exhibition History & Royalty. 600 Years
De Kalverpassage in Amsterdam. A
Allard Pierson in Amsterdam shows how
of History, takes you back through the
collection of 100 unique artworks built
this style dominated the public space
history of this church (founded 1408),
from more than one million LEGO®
and commercial printing with hand-
in an autobiography that’s inextricably
bricks, The Art of the Brick is sure to
drawn letters on everything from posters
linked with that of Amsterdam and the
delight all ages and everyone from
to metro entrances. More info:
Netherlands. More info:
LEGO fans to art enthusiasts. More info:
www.allardpierson.nl.
www.denieuwekerk.nl.
www.artofthebrick.nl.
Through Sunday 21 March EXHIBITION: FROM THONET TO DUTCH DESIGN Photography Twycer
@Stedelijk Museum The Stedelijk presents an extensive selection of design from its famous collection, with over 300 objects that are landmarks of design innovation and excellence from the past 125
Through Monday 10 May
years. Beginning with a Thonet bench
EXHIBITION: REPUBLIC AT SEA
that’s one of the oldest pieces in the
@National Maritime Museum Amsterdam
collection, the exhibition explores
The exhibit Republic at Sea in the National Maritime Museum’s Main Gallery shows how
major movements including the Wiener
water has shaped the Netherlands’ history as a maritime nation. With more than 50
Werkstätte, Amsterdam School and
objects telling the story of the Republic in the 17th and 18th centuries, it illuminates how
Scandinavian design. More info and
the maritime world and Dutch society have been linked for centuries. More info and
tickets: www.stedelijk.nl.
ticket sales: www.hetscheepvaartmuseum.nl.
• 29
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
Special feature:
SUSTAINABILITY These days, sustainability plays a major part in our everyday lives. We’re all becoming increasingly aware of it and see the urgency to preserve a good balance between people, the environment and the economy. That’s important now and will be even more so for generations to come. Fortunately, more and more companies are making a serious commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainability. This issue’s special feature on Sustainability spotlights companies that are making a conscious choice to be sustainable and are excited to tell our readers about what they’re doing. Your activities at GBC centre around Zuidas. What’s the focus here and what’s your role? ‘’I’m the programme director for GBC Zuidas. We’ve got an enthusiastic team and 55 member organizations with which I work to realize this incredible club’s ambitions. One project we’re working on now is Zero Waste Zuidas. Our goals are 0% residual waste by 2030, eliminating Zuidas’ dependence on natural gas, improving urban logistics by provisioning offices from a hub using electric delivery vehicles, and installing 25,000 m2 of water-retaining green rooftops. We’re already more than halfway to achieving that last goal.’’
ELINE KIK
Is Zuidas sustainable enough, in your view? We’re kicking off with an interview with
concrete projects to make those areas
‘’Zuidas is by no means sufficiently
Eline Kik, director of Green Business
more sustainable. It’s all about taking
sustainable. We’re up against some
Club Zuidas. GBC Zuidas is a foundation
action. Right now, there are 13 local GBCs
tremendous challenges. As the country’s
that works to achieve concrete results
nationwide as well as a broad central
premier office location, Zuidas wants to
by spearheading sustainable projects.
platform – GBC Netherlands – that supports
be a frontrunner in sustainability. We’re
the local GBCs. The idea was conceived
succeeding more and more when it comes
What’s the overall aim of
in 2011 by ABN AMRO’s sustainable
to ultra-innovative and sustainable office
Green Business Club Netherlands?
banking unit in cooperation with the City
and residential building, but there’s still
‘’Green Business Clubs (GBC) are local
of Amsterdam and ORAM network. They
so much to do. Particularly in terms of our
networks made up of industry, government
were quickly joined by founding partners
use of existing office properties and our
and knowledge sector players in a given
Loyens & Loeff, Vesteda, VU Amsterdam, RAI
behaviours, Zuidas needs to take a more
geographic area. We work together on
Amsterdam and Accenture.’’
critical look at itself. There are still a lot
30 •
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
with Hello Zuidas. Since 2013, GBC Zuidas, Hello Zuidas and the Zuidas Amsterdam Development Office have issued the annual Zuidas Sustainability Report, containing an overview of sustainable developments in the district. That report is being replaced in 2021 by the Zuidas Sustainability Award, to be presented for the first time ever to the most innovative, impactful or inspiring initiative in Zuidas. An expert panel of judges will assess all submissions, which will be published on www.zuidasduurzaam.nl.’’ of lights on outside working hours, lots of
you can exert a direct influence. That might
needless business flights and commuting
be eco-friendly or circular purchasing,
How do you envision the future of Zuidas?
by car, instead of using public transport and
or maybe setting up a more sustainable
‘’As a flourishing, dynamic district with
bikes. Much remains to be done on waste
employee mobility policy – ithat varies
impressive offices, residential towers
reduction, reuse and better processing.
with every company. And there’s no need
where everyone may find a home and a
But, on the plus side, we’re tackling these
to reinvent the wheel. Find the knowledge
place where knowledge and innovation
things together in concrete projects. And,
that’s out there and join forces with other
count as central values. With VU as the
increasingly, we’re seeing people in Zuidas
organizations in platforms like Green
country’s most sustainable university
take responsibility for their own role,
Business Club.’’
right here in Zuidas, that’s something
committing to the cause and taking real steps to make Zuidas sustainable.’’
we can achieve. These days, Zuidas is
Could you describe your partnership
seen not just as the financial heart of the
with Hello Zuidas in relation to the
Netherlands, but as a model for how profit
How can companies make a
sustainability report and award?
can go hand in hand with fostering
start on greening their operations?
‘’Green Business Club Zuidas works closely
a better world.’’
‘’One best practice adopted by GBC member Houthoff and others is to go broad and create a ‘green team’ with
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
representatives from across all of your
‘’GBC Zuidas will be celebrating her 10-year anniversary in 2021 and we want to
organization’s various divisions. Then,
celebrate with our 55 loyal members and all the wonderful organizations we work
start with a measurement: What’s your
with. We’re putting together some anniversary festivities, but are also open to more
company’s carbon footprint? That brings
ideas. Got an idea or want to get involved in Green Business Club Zuidas? We’d love to
into focus promising areas where you can
hear from you: zuidas@greenbusinessclub.nl.’’
have a big impact. Tackle projects where
• 31
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
SUSTAINABILITY: A HOT TOPIC IN FINANCE AND LAW These days we all know why sustainability is important, but how financial institutions and corporates can best implement it in their operations is a different story. With all the laws and regulations developed in European initiatives to get sectors actively on board with sustainability targets, many companies find themselves in a difficult situation. Companies want to do ‘good’ and want to comply quickly. However, there are simply a lot of rules to deal with and implementation mistakes can have far reaching consequences. That’s exactly where Suzanne Kröner-Rosmalen of Stibbe can help. She specialises in advising financial institutions and corporates about sustainable finance issues. ‘Helping companies making complex laws easy to work with – that’s what drives me.’
SUZANNE KRÖNER-ROSMALEN
COMPLEX SET OF RULES Willingness is growing among sectors and organizations to tackle the sustainability challenges and take concrete steps towards a sustainable future. It’s not easy to venture into this unknown territory. Especially not with the European Commission setting out extremely ambitious regulations, Suzanne acknowledges. Increasingly, financial enterprises and shareholders are being required to focus efforts on greening the financial sector. ‘We’ve seen the emergence of complex regulations in a short time span, and with each one we have to wait and see how legal implementation will work in practice. The rules vary from disclosures on how green financial products are, to how sustainability is factored into decision making processes, how sustainability risks are taken into account and how sustainability fits into good corporate governance. Being involved in this legal transition gives KrönerRosmalen immense satisfaction. ‘These regulations are complicated, but they’ll have a huge effect on
32 •
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL An example of sustainability regulations and how Stibbe clarifies them
all kinds of enterprises in the financial sector, from
which could lead to losses through exposures to
pension funds, banks and insurers to corporates
the sectors that are impacted.
and other stakeholders. It is exciting to experience the positive energy within companies that are
SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
implementing these rules. However, we do advise
So, what does sustainability mean for Stibbe? ‘First
to remain critical as well and to push-back when
of all, sustainability (and also Environmental Social
needed, because simply implementing everything
and Governance, ESG) are part of our services. To
as fast as possible can have its downsides and can
be able to assist our clients with the identification,
be risky in view of other legal obligations.’
analysis and integration of sustainability and ESG topics in their operations we have a dedicated
CLIMATE CHANGE AND
and multidisciplinary team combining all
RISK MANAGEMENT
relevant expertise. ESG challenges are broad and
STIBBE N.V.
‘That climate change would become part of the
require the attention of all divisions within an
Suzanne Kröner
daily job of a financial regulations specialists was
organization.’ And how is Stibbe as a company
-Rosmalen
something that I did not expect when I started
here at the Zuidas contributing to a sustainable
Advocaat
at Stibbe 13 years ago.’ As she explains that is
future? ‘Also in many different ways and on
+31 (0)6 46 20 44 52
nowadays the case. Sustainable finance laws are
different levels and we have dedicated colleagues
Suzanne.Kroner
developed as part of a bigger plan of action to
who put effort in meeting sustainability standards.
-Rosmalen@stibbe.com
limiting the global temperature increase. Also,
Our building has for example a BREEAM certificate,
financial institutions must factor consequences
was built sustainably and meets sustainability
of changing climate and the transition to carbon
standards. Beyond that, we’re constantly looking
neutral economy in their risk models. For example,
how to be more sustainable on an everyday level –
if more floodings occurs, damages can increase
from postal delivery to catering, you name it.’
Text Nicole Pak & Eefje van den Akker • Photography Caily Bobbie Jo • Visual Kim Raad
• 33
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
Integrating sustainability:
AN EVOLVING PROCESS You can’t talk about the future without talking about sustainability. Just ask Bart-Jan Freriks, managing director of ENGIE Services for the West Netherlands region. He and his 5,700 colleagues across the Netherlands are working on questions at the interface of technology, energy and sustainability, such as: How can we engineer buildings like hospitals, offices, schools and universities to be sustainable? ‘There’s far more to it than only supplying renewable energy’, says Freriks. ‘Our specialists supply advice, engineering, project management and the installation, management and maintenance, optimization and operation of our clients’ technical assets.’ IMPARTIAL PARTNER
groups of users’, Bart-Jan continues. ‘Once you
ENGIE Services works closely and impartially with
know that, you can do tests and translate the
ENGIE Energie, so the sustainable technology they
results into a sustainable framework to create a
supply is fully supported by a sustainable service.
sustainable, pleasant environment for the greatest
The aim is to remove barriers between technology,
number of people.’
knowledge and convenience. ‘Working together without having to factor in all kinds of interests
CHALLENGES
keeps us open to new solutions, like reusing
Technologically, the sky’s the limit – almost – but
equipment and systems’, Freriks explains. ‘With
first the costs have to come down. Take solar
minor adjustments, it’s possible to make huge
panels, which were still a hefty investment not so
strides in sustainability.’
long ago. These days, solar power is within reach for many more people. And while the possibilities
34 •
‘Sustainability as a field is continually evolving.
are growing, that’s also part of the challenge.
From ‘smart buildings’ we’re shifting to ‘smarter
To supply enough energy to power all these
buildings’ that enhance users’ wellbeing. That
developments, we need more and more energy.
means you have to understand the different
Which can lead to ‘grid congestion’ – where the
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
BART-JAN FRERIKS
power grid gets clogged up. Solutions include
economic uncertainty. Result? Investments
flexible systems to switch supplies on and off and
in sustainability are being put off. ‘A shame’,
storing power locally.
Freriks observes. ‘It’s precisely now that we can made big strides here. With fewer cars on
It’s precisely on solutions like these that Freriks
the roads, the air is getting cleaner, and that’s a
is working with his team, piecing together
great nudge to get us moving.’ Vacant buildings
new challenges and technologies to come
are forcing us to think about solutions and
up with innovative ideas. Even in these times,
alternatives. The space-to-staff ration is shifting.
when we’re all in the grip of the pandemic, it’s
If working from home sticks, desks could make
important that sustainable energy continues to
way for meeting places. Workspaces could
develop. To do something about empty office
be used more efficiently. And that would free
buildings, for instance. At the same time, it’s
up room for things like more housing. All of
raising new questions: Do we really need and
these transformations demand modifications
want so many people driving to and from offices
in technology, energy and services – think
every day? And: How might we make more
improved ventilation systems, sensors, light and
efficient use of office buildings?
climate control – to name a few.
SUSTAINABILITY AND
PROUD TO BE DUTCH
THE CORONAVIRUS
Bart-Jan says he’s proud of the Netherlands ‘That
ENGIE Services West
The kind of working from home we’re doing
we’ve come up with new, innovative ideas in times
Albert Heijnweg 1
these days has caused a lot to change.
like these is marvellous to see and be a part of. If
1507EH Zaandam
Office buildings are deserted and now we’re
we can all consciously put our minds to this, we
+31 (0)75 653 70 00
reconsidering the comfort and wellbeing of
can keep making strides. Towards a bright, healthy
www.engie-services.nl
working at home. It has also triggered some
and sustainable future.’
Text Nicole Pak & Lindelotte de Koster
• 35
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
GOING GREEN, TOP-DOWN
‘There’s so much unused potential in Zuidas for green roofs’
Sustainability is a topic that’s gaining increasing traction. For real estate adviser Savills, it’s particularly relevant. Savills’ Property Management Team works for various property owners who have committed to the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement. Savills is working with its clients to examine what changes they can make to get their buildings up to the highest sustainability standards and at least comply with current laws and regulations. Associate facility manager Femke Boon and associate Irene van Esseveld talk about what sustainability means for Savills.
36 •
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
IRENE VAN ESSEVELD
FEMKE BOON
What steps are you taking to
Femke: ‘Before looking at what’s on the
building. As you might know, insects are
maximize compliance with climate
roof, we need to consider the street level.
struggling to survive in the Netherlands,
legislation and regulations?
Zuidas is concrete in every direction, with
due to a lack of flowering plants, pesticides
Femke: ‘Our Sustainability Team is made
few green spaces. Those paved surfaces
and the deterioration of biotopes. To help
up of various specialists who are able
make it hard for water to be absorbed into
the bee colony, we have created a diverse
to address specific questions relating
the ground, and the municipal sewers
living environment on the new Sedum roof.
to sustainability. The custom service
aren’t equipped to handle that much
The selected plants have been chosen
we provide centres on reducing energy
runoff. Also, rainfall has been getting
for the amount of pollen they produce, to
consumption and the technical measures
heavier, exacerbating the situation. By
increase honey production. The beehive
needed to do that. Working on behalf of a
modifying the roof cladding and opting
was installed in 2019 and in September
building owner, we analyse their building’s
for an environmentally-friendly solution
2020 we were able to distribute the first
current performance and then implement
like sedum, water can be absorbed by
production of honey to the tenants of the
the investments the owner needs to make.
the plants and stored on the roof. The
building. A tangible result of this great
And of course aside from that, we have
water drains off more slowly and is partly
initiative!’
an additional focus on contracting green,
retained by the vegetated roof system.
renewable energy for all the buildings
So, as well as looking much nicer than
Is Zuidas sustainable enough,
under our management.’ Irene: ‘Another
a grey tarmac roof, a green roof does
in your opinion? And what kinds
thing we’re working on is the development
an important job, while also providing
of small modifications can go a
of Savills RISE. Savills RISE centres on
additional insulation.’ Irene: ‘At the Green
long way towards making offices
building users, and specifically on building
Roof Dinner organized by Green Business
more sustainable?
comfort. That covers everything from
Club Zuidas, the point was made yet again
Irene: ‘This is a no-brainer, but start by
friendly service to local business initiatives
how much unused potential there still
switching off the lights. For some reason
and the well-being of tenants. When we
is to make Zuidas greener by means of
that’s still a tough one. Entire towers are
start to apply Savills RISE in future, these
vegetated roofs. Union Investment, the
still blazing at night. After that, a relatively
kinds of almost unquantifiable but very
owner of a number of buildings here in
small step would be to install LED lighting
appreciable services will actually be
Zuidas that we manage, is backing this
and motion sensors.’
measurable. Using audits, we’ll be able to
initiative, enabling us to do a complete
enhance the experience of hospitality and
upgrade of the roof of the SOM building.
comfort in the buildings.’
Sedum has also been installed on part of
Savills Amsterdam
the UN Studio roof. The most recent big
Claude Debussylaan 48
You manage several properties in
project we did was to replace Accenture’s
1082 MD Amsterdam
Zuidas that have rooftop gardens.
rooftop terrace in the ITO Tower.’ Irene:
+31 (0)20 301 20 00
What do those gardens look like,
‘Together with the Beelease foundation,
www.savills.nl
and why are they important?
we placed a beehive on the roof of the SOM
Text Romy Lange • Photography Marcel Steinbach (Infra Communication)
• 37
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
Goede Doelen Loterijen:
ROOTED IN SOCIAL The Dutch charity lotteries organization Goede Doelen Loterijen (encompassing Nationale Postcode Loterij, VriendenLoterij and BankGiro Loterij) supports causes that promote a just and green world. Since late 2018 they’ve normally done that from the country’s most sustainable renovated building on Beethovenstraat in Amsterdam. Awarded the highest attainable BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ certification for sustainable renovation, the premises are energy and water neutral and have PowerWindows and solar panels to generate a portion of its own electricity. Light and climate control ensure a pleasant work environment inside, waste flows are separated and toilets flush with rainwater. Fellow tenants include Beethoven Studio, from which tv-shows Koffietijd and 5 Uur Show are broadcast live on weekdays, and Ristorante La Lotteria, which serves authentic Italian fare on the ground floor. We caught up with David van der Leij, project leader CSR & Postcode Lotteries Green Challenge.
38 •
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
ENTERPRISE SOCIAL ENTERPRISE
electricity. In 2018, we took the decision
TV, winning € 500,000.‘The programme’s
FROM DAY ONE
to also compensate all of our prizes in-
called Everybody can do it and is meant
David van der Leij has worked at Goede
kind. From day trips to gift packages, the
to inspire everyone to take action for a
Doelen Loterijen for 19 years now, the
lottery makes sure they leave no footprint.
sustainable future. The programme is
last two years focusing on making the
An ambitious goal that’s already fully
broadcasted on NPO1 on February 14. For
business more sustainable, so called Good
integrated in operations is the idea we had
our 2021 edition, sustainable startups can
Operations. ‘We raise funds for many
in 2018 to reduce our emissions by 50%
enter starting from 1 March on our website
organisations who are making the world
within seven years. We got started right
greenchallenge.info.’
a better place, and we want to run our
from 2019 and already got up to about
own business in a sustainable way. This
18% in our first year. That’s a brilliant initial
varies from reducing our emissions and
result which has certainly encouraged us to
use of single use plastics to being inclusive.
keep going.’ The Postcode Loterij revolves
Another but related part of my job is
around one core mission: to support
helping to set up the Postcode Lotteries
charities. But the organization is also
Green Challenge – where we challenge
keeping pace with the times and is open
startups to pitch innovative ideas for a
to change. ‘Inclusivity and diversity are
greener world. Those are just a couple of
very important issues for us. Among other
the activities Goede Doelen Loterijen is
things, we do anonymous recruitment,
involved in. We give at least 40% of our
provide training on unconscious bias to
turnover to charities and the Postcode
our staff and hold regular sessions and
Lotteries have contributed over € 10 billion
lectures on this topic.’
since the start in 1989. You could call us a proto-social enterprise’, he quips.
EVERYONE CAN DO IT The Postcode Loterij is always looking for
GOOD OPERATIONS
new ventures. Like the special opportunity
‘We measure and compensate all our
that arose this year on account of the
emissions. This includes paper usage,
coronavirus to announce the winner of the
commuter- and business travel, gas and
Postcode Lotteries Green Challenge on
DAVID VAN DER LEIJ
• 39
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
EDGE: SMART OFFICE BUILDINGS FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE Interview with chief operating officer Boudewijn Ruitenburg
EDGE STADIUM AMSTERDAM
From London to Boston to Berlin, Dutch-based company EDGE is blazing a trail with buildings that are as iconic as they are sustainable – and where everything centres on the comfort of office occupants. Using smart software, they’re creating offices equipped for the future and renovating old, existing buildings into a sustainable, unified whole. Hello Zuidas met with Boudewijn Ruitenburg, the firm’s chief operating officer and in charge of securing new projects. As much as the bright lights of foreign cities beckon, EDGE certainly hasn’t lost sight of its home base. ‘Zuidas has some amazing challenges in store for us.’
40 •
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
EDGE Olympic Fred Roeskestraat 115 1076 EE Amsterdam +31 (0)88 170 10 00 amsterdam@edge.tech
EDGE AMSTERDAM WEST
VALLEY
new: smart software that supports the
to five, five days a week. Companies will
development of sustainable properties.
likely have to trade in some of the space
‘With this software, a building’s owner and
they’re occupying now, but I expect that
users get efficient service to use the office
sustainability and health will take more
in the most targeted and optimal way.’
and more of a front seat going forward.’
SUSTAINABLE AND EFFICIENT
HOME MARKET
Alongside sustainable engineering and
Back in the Netherlands, EDGE is putting
smart software, EDGE is working towards
the finishing touches on two high-profile
a sustainable future on yet another
new buildings in Amsterdam that also
front. ‘With our EDGE Next platform we
speak to the firm’s versatility. EDGE
want to help upgrade existing building
Amsterdam West is a building dating from
stock. Using our software, we can sit
the 1970s which was completely renovated
WHAT USERS WANT
down with users to look at things that
and upgraded to modern sustainability
EDGE started out as a Dutch property
could be healthier, greener and more
standards. And in Zuidas, Valley recently
developer focused mainly on offices and
efficient. For us, step one is always to
topped out – a building whose defining
always putting the wants of future building
measure. To measure is to know what
feature is that it’s covered in vegetation.
users first. That user-centred approach
you can do better’, Ruitenburg explains.
‘These buildings are completely different,
made it popular. Across the border,
‘When you spend a lot of time in a place,
but they do have two important things in
too. The firm also realized early on that
we think it stands to reason that you’d
common: they’re both sustainable and
sustainability would come to play a key
be concerned about its effect on health
they’re both iconic.’ The world’s cites may
role in future developments. Ruitenburg:
and the environment.’ Not surprisingly,
be beckoning, but Ruitenburg stresses
‘When developing large offices there are
Ruitenburg feels positive about the outlook
that EDGE’s home market is where some of
so many things to consider. Both during
for offices, though he expects companies
the most interesting opportunities await.
and after construction, you want the whole
will have some adapting to do. ‘Offices still
‘From existing buildings to new, high-
process to be as sustainable as possible, so
serve a purpose, but in the future as more
performing, sustainable office buildings.
that even after completion you can adapt
of a clubhouse. At the same time, COVID
Gaining recognition for building quality is
to an energy-neutral future.’ To help, a few
has made us realize that not all office
becoming increasingly important, and we
years ago EDGE introduced something
spaces were as nice to be in from nine
want to promote that.’
BOUDEWIJN RUITENBURG
Text Romy Lange
• 41
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
PURPOSE, WHAT IS IT? And how to find it? Lately, purpose is a topic on everybody’s lips. Companies are realizing now more
everyone – from team to individual – can
than ever that making a profit is only one side of the coin. Strategic objectives
see their contribution. For this approach
have to align their societal impacts. At the same time, I’ve noticed many places are
to succeed, however, leaders have to set
grappling with the question of what purpose really means, and how to embed it in
the example. Cultural change only works
their organizations. For me, purpose is really about accepting your responsibilities
if company leadership are involved in the
as a company. Not only for your own economic results, but also for the impact you
objectives and actually perform them.
have on wider society and the world, on people, and on the environment.
They have to show what they’re changing and its concrete effects.
Making that pledge sounds straightforward
INCENTIVIZING AND ENTHUSING
enough, but in practice it can be tricky.
The study also offers some practical
EMBRACING CHANGE
That’s been confirmed by a study done by
tools. Most important is to embed your
Now, telling people how to tackle their
the Dutch Sustainable Growth Coalition,
purpose objectives in your organization
purpose is relatively simple. The power of
a group of Dutch multinationals investing
and processes. That way, everybody’s
Accenture consists in coupling advice to
in sustainable growth in tune with societal
actions will indeed be guided by those
implementation: we suit actions to words.
developments. Using the UN’s Sustainable
objectives. Getting all your employees to
Also when it comes to your purpose. We
Development Goals as a basis, they
join that behavioural transformation takes
recently made that whole journey to a new
prioritize sustainability and purpose over
work. But, with training, internal incentives
– or really recalibrated – purpose again. ‘To
profits. In the process, they’re trying to
and programmes geared towards the
deliver on the promise of technology and
inspire other industry players to do the
organizational culture, you can incentivize
human ingenuity’ is now the foundation
same, for example by sharing experiences
and enthuse people to change. What also
of our organization and our activities.
and best practices in the areas they
helps, is making the steps very small,
We’re doing that by uniting the strengths
themselves are targeting.
transparent and, above all, measurable, so
of 500,000 people across the globe with
42 •
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
all the possibilities technology offers. Not
serious this is for us, one of our actions
Peter Balkenende is especially on point.
merely to create value for ourselves, but for
towards creating a more sustainable future
They considered how transformations
our wider community – our own people,
was the appointment of Peter Lacy as
to purpose-driven organizations are
our clients, our partners and society as a
global chief responsibility officer in our
becoming the new normal. As much as
whole. This is how we can respond to the
global management team. His focus is
many organizations are still grappling with
inevitable changes we’re experiencing on
on making sure we work responsibly and
how to frame and effectuate their purpose,
all fronts – from digitization and climate
sustainably and tying that together across
what’s really key is that we join forces
change to the impacts of the pandemic –
all our activities and services. We’d already
and share experiences. Because, let’s be
and help to solve the big challenges.
set serious sustainability goals and now
honest, the time for talk is over. Whatever
we’re taking those a step further. In 2025
your organization and whatever you do,
JOINING THE PATH TO
we’ll be completely carbon neutral and
sustainability and a social conscience have
SUSTAINABLE GROWTH
waste-free. That makes us fully compliant
to be at the core. The only way we can truly
Purpose is inextricable from company
with the UN’s Sustainable Development
make progress is by getting to work right
strategy. So, in parallel with implementing
Goals. Moreover, we’ll tap our own
now, both within our own organizations
our new purpose, we set out a business
experiences to assist clients to create their
and beyond.
strategy wholly centred around achieving
own sustainable growth.
shared success. Having those concrete action plans, with concrete goals, bears
TIME FOR TALK IS OVER
ACCENTURE
out the strategy by which we want to make
Given that we’re striving for shared success,
Scan the QR-code
a positive difference with everyone in
I think the digital conversation Peter
to listen the podcast
our community. To underscore just how
Lacy recently had with DSGC chair Jan
IRINE GAASBEEK
Photography Davien Hulsman
• 43
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
FINANCE AS A FORCE FOR How the EU Taxonomy will make Europe the first carbon-neutral continent Sustainability will be top of mind for many Zuidas workers in 2021, with several sustainable finance regulations entering into force. These regulations aim to make Europe the world’s first carbon-neutral continent. In this article, ABN AMRO’s Sustainable Finance experts Joppe van Onna, Jasper Meijer, Yu-Sha Vergeer and Julia van Boven share some insights on the impact of this important topic. STEERING CAPITAL TOWARDS GREEN INVESTMENTS The Green Deal is Europe’s new growth strategy. Frans Timmermans, vice president of the European Commission, describes it as a strategy where environmental, economic and social sustainability go hand in hand. To execute this strategy, the European Commission will invest one trillion euros in sustainable activities this decade. But that won’t be enough. The European Commission estimates that an additional 260 billion euros a year is needed from the private sector. To ensure the private sector makes the right investments, the European Commission has created an Action Plan on Sustainable Finance. This plan increases transparency and aims to stimulate JOPPE VAN ONNA, JASPER MEIJER, YU-SHA VERGEER AND JULIA VAN BOVEN
44 •
long-term decision-making in financial and economic activities. To paraphrase
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
THE SUSTAINABILITY SHIFT Timmermans, ‘the costs of climate action may seem high, but are
corporates have to disclose information on whether activities
overshadowed by the costs of inaction’.
are ‘sustainable’ according to the Taxonomy criteria. For financial institutions, this means they need to understand which of the
EUROPEAN DEFINITION OF ‘SUSTAINABLE’
activities they perform or finance can be called sustainable. And in
The Taxonomy on Sustainable Finance is the cornerstone of
order to achieve that, a great deal of work needs to be done!
this Action Plan. It introduces a common vocabulary on what is environmentally sustainable and functions as a dictionary for ‘green’
Zuidas workers will be involved in many capacities. For example,
activities. For every sector, highly specified technical criteria are
lawyers who interpret and explain the new regulations, many
defined to determine whether activities can be called sustainable.
of which are still being developed. Within ABN AMRO alone,
This is important, because without the Taxonomy, understandings
over a hundred employees are involved in making the project a
of ‘sustainable’ can diverge significantly across companies in
success. Across all of Europe, companies should be preparing
different sectors. Without a common understanding, it is difficult
for the question: ‘How green are your activities’? Or, from
for investors and consumers to compare and select genuine
a consumer perspective: ‘Which companies are genuinely
‘sustainable’ investments. The Taxonomy ensures that everyone has
sustainable’? The Taxonomy will finally create a uniform definition
the same understanding and stamps out so-called ‘greenwashing’:
of ‘environmentally sustainable’ in what was – until now – a
calling activities or products ‘green’ when in fact they are not.
fragmented landscape of definitions.
How will this work? Let’s zoom in on an example from the transport sector. To achieve climate neutrality, a significant emissions
Want to lean more about the EU Taxonomy?
reduction is needed in the transport sector. The Taxonomy informs
Listen to our podcast (in Dutch) with ABN
investors which activities contributing to emissions reduction
AMRO’s Sustainable Finance expert Julia van
are ‘sustainable’. For example, manufacturing low-emission
Boven and Brussels-watcher Evelien Alblas!
vehicles can be ‘environmentally sustainable’ when greenhouse
Available via the QR Code.
gas emissions are below 50 grams CO2/km. Of course, it would be strange to call an activity sustainable if it reduces emissions whilst at the same time causing pollution or violating human rights.
CIRCL
The Taxonomy therefore also requires a ‘do no significant harm’
This information is provided in association with Circl. Circl
assessment in order to qualify as sustainable.
was created by ABN AMRO as a place to share knowledge about circularity and provide clients with sound, reliable
ZUIDAS GETS TO WORK!
advice. As a circular platform in Zuidas, Circl is also where the
In the years to come, many companies will need to learn the
forces powering society, business and finance work together
‘language’ of the Taxonomy. The first actions are geared towards
to take action for a sustainable world.
companies with more than 500 employees. From 2022 on, these
Photography Caily Bobbie Jo
• 45
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
ADJUST TO CHANGE Studio Gyzell bags are beautiful and timeless investment
IN W
pieces you can easily customize for every occasion, transforming sophisticated grey in the morning into stunning
!
gold at night. Innovating Studio Gyzell brings a limited collection of modular Leather bags to adjust to change - both bag and mindset. Handcrafted in Europe to stimulate conscious consumption representing the Dutch brand’s
GIVEAWAY
philosophy on sustainable luxury. ADJUSTABLE LEATHER BAGS. MADE TO LAST. MADE FOR CHANGE. Let Studio Gyzell inspire you and create 30 unique looks with
Calling all ladies in Zuidas! Want to win a STUDIO GYZELL
3 timeless and adjustable bags, featuring 10 interchangeable
handbag? Or are you feeling generous and do you think
elements. Handmade of the finest Italian zero impact leather to
a colleague, friend or your mum deserves a new bag?
cherish forever, to age and change beautifully, together with you.
Enter our competition now!
In opting for a Studio Gyzell bag, you join the brand’s charity initiative of donating to LINDA.foundation.
For a chance to win Studio Gyzell’s Lyra Shoulder Bag, all you have to do is: • Follow #studiogyzell on Instagram • Send an email explaining why you or someone you know deserves a stylish sustainable luxury handbag. • Let us know which colourful interchangeable front is your favourite and it will be included with your bag. Submit your answer to: info@zuidaspublishers.nl before 22 February 2021 and you could be the lucky winner!
ABOUT THE FOUNDER: ANIKÓ KOSSEN-VARGA With her medical background, fifteen years of experience in environmental and occupational health and her
Available online:
love for timeless design, founder
www.studiogyzell.com
Anikó Kossen-Varga brings a unique
info@studiogyzell.com
perspective as well as passion to the fashion industry. She has added a personal touch to the brand by naming it after her grandmother and turned Studio Gyzell into a melting pot of sustainability and style, with her storytelling bags symbolizing a conscious mindset.
46 •
SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
LIVING ROOF
does double duty for teaching and research
SDG SCANS
A blue green research roof has been installed on top of VU’s
The VU’s Amsterdam Sustainability Institute and the
Main Building. Seeded with local grasses and herbs, the
Sustainability Leadership Hub have co-developed and
system also has ponds for birds, as well as a wild bee colony.
carefully designed the SDG Scan to help businesses prioritize
Researchers at the Amsterdam Sustainability Institute (ASI)
and tackle challenges in a sustainable fashion. We have
will be using the living roof for their teaching and research.
equipped our junior consultants with the knowledge and tools
For example to study changes in air temperature, humidity,
to help you future proof your business. Let’s get started!
water balance and insulating effect. And their teaching and research work will in turn contribute to knowledge about
HOW WE WORK
green rooftops in Zuidas, which can be used to model the
1. Our junior consultants conduct a group interview with the
impact of roofing all Zuidas with blue green systems.
organization to discuss main challenges and company values. 2. Based on the interview and your company’s strategic
GREENING THE CAMPUS Green roofs also play a key part in greening the campus. The university aims to create a healthy and sustainable space that’s
documents / website / other relevant information we will identify ‘hotspots for change’. 3. These ‘hotspots for change’ are placed in the framework of
open to everyone, where people can gather and relax. Plans for the
the UN Sustainable Development Goals and targets will allow
renovated campus square will add 20-30% more green space to the
us to identify a set of priority SDGs & targets.
campus, with the planting of mature trees and a variety of bee and
4. We will provide an advisory report, that includes a set of
bird-friendly shrubs and flora native to the area. All this will make
recommendations on how to work towards this set of SDGs,
the VU Campus into something like a Living Lab – an attractive
while creating value for your company and helping it tackle
place for both nature and the people who work and study here.
challenges in a sustainable fashion.
SCAN THE QR-CODE
VU AMSTERDAM
and check out the green roof here!
Want to find out more, and to see how other organizations are tackling the SDGs? Go to: vu-ondernemend.nl/sdg-scan-amstelveen
• 47
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SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL
INVITE NATURE INSIDE
and create a sound absorptive wall or decorative panel with 100% natural mummy-moss!
Soundless Green wall, the new decorative and natural solution to improve room acoustics. With 100 % natural moss covering which creates a seamless and high-quality sound absorptive wall that will give your room an exclusive design. This Green Wall will keep it’s striking appearance, is virtually maintenance free and needs no water or daylight! HEALTH AND WELLBEING
decorative (sound absorptive) room
Pleasant room acoustics not only improve
dividers, flower pots or as “paintings” in
the sound experience in a room, they are
any desired size, with or without luxury
crucial for health and wellbeing! The call
frame. All panels are handmade which
for natural green products is getting louder
makes each and every piece fully unique!
every day. Research has shown that natural
greenery in an office boosts productivity
USEFUL EVERYWHERE
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The Green Wall is suitable for almost all
reduces sick days! It even influences our
indoor applications, including hotels,
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lounge room, foyers, reception areas,
to the interior design of restaurants.
conference rooms, art galleries, conference rooms, showrooms, shops, airports,
This solution is custom made so it can be
restaurants, offices etc. The moss wall
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will impress with its outstanding acoustic
seamless wall. It can also be delivered in
capabilities and a is stunning visual point.
• 49
LEGAL
Legal News
#INTERVIEW Dentons introduces Diverse Excellence Scholarship in the Netherlands
Dentons embraces the power of diversity. By recognizing that diverse backgrounds and perspectives are critical to business success. By recognizing that excellence has no gender, age or sexual orientation. By recognizing that excellence has no dominant ethnicity, religion or nationality. And by acknowledging that excellence comes in all shapes and sizes. For students specializing in Dutch law, Dentons in Amsterdam is introducing something new: the Dentons Diverse Excellence Scholarship. INSIGHT INTO THE WORLD’S LARGEST LAW FIRM
mentoring scheme, pairing them with a partner and an associate to
Denton’s Diverse Excellence Scholarship provides financial support
gain insight into life at the world’s largest law firm.
for two students to do a master’s degree in law alongside the opportunity to obtain a traineeship at Dentons in Amsterdam. The
HELPING HAND
scholarship will cover the expenses for a master’s degree to be
Başak Küçük, associate in the Construction & Projects practice
pursued during the 2021/2022 academic year and the cost of books
group (and part of the D&I team in Amsterdam): ‘Our focus lies on
up to a total of € 3,200. The students will also take part in the firm’s
developing talent. This scholarship is intended to offer support to
50 •
LEGAL
Başak Küçük Job
Associate in Construction & Projects practice group
(and part of D&I team in Amsterdam)
Age 33
Favourite spot in Zuidas Rooftop garden on the Vivaldi building, with a coffee from Doppio.
Current hot topic within the firm How we run video meetings.
Marien Glerum Job
Benelux managing Officer at Dentons
Age
42
Favourite spot in Zuidas Coffee in the morning sunshine at Julia’s on the square.
Current hot topic within the firm Not surprisingly, how to shape social cohesion and our company culture now that we’re having less in-person contact – we miss each other!
talent and stems from the principle that a person’s future success
With this initiative, Dentons wants to encourage, motivate and
should not be defined by their background and/or financial
attract talented law students from all backgrounds, inclusive of
strength. It is a great opportunity for law students who are entering
race, ethnicity, faith, religion or spiritual beliefs, gender, gender
their Master’s studies to get a financial boost and a personal
identity, age, sexual orientation, abilities, social perspective and
mentoring program. This is a perfect way to get a closer look at the
other characteristics. Marien Glerum, Benelux Managing officer
legal profession and Dentons. I’m proud to be part of a firm where
at Dentons: ‘The Diverse Excellence Scholarship is part of our
we truly practice what we preach.’
ambition as a firm to create a dynamic and inclusive workplace that’s welcoming to everyone and enhances our working
ENCOURAGING LAW STUDENTS FROM ALL BACKGROUNDS
environment. We hope to motivate and encourage law students all
Key to Dentons’ success as the world’s largest law firm, is its
over the Netherlands, regardless of background, religious beliefs,
ability to create an inclusive, forward-thinking and innovative
gender and other factors, to get a closer look at international law
workplace where individuals can thrive and be themselves.
firms like Dentons.’
• 51
Courtesie International Business Affairs
THE SPECIALIST FOR ALL YOUR LANGUAGE NEEDS We’ve all experienced those situations where communication founders on a language
Far from being a luxury, multilingual
barrier of some kind. Language opens doors, and Courtesie is an international
written and oral communication is now
translation agency which does just that. Since opening a new location in Zuidas
often a necessity, and it’s common for
the agency is more connected than ever to the industries it serves, including real
sworn translations, whether oral or written,
estate, law, medicine and insurance. Courtesie’s director Antoinette Chin A Loi-De
to be required by law. That’s true in the
Hoog explains, ‘In these industries and sectors it all comes down to expertise, so it’s
case of interpreters who work for courts
essential that texts are translated at that specialized level and in the right context.’
and notaries and for translations made for foreign organizations. Apart from the
Established almost ten years ago as home-
THE CUSTOMER ALWAYS COMES FIRST
linguistic aspect, many industries also
based agency, Courtesie took flight despite
Courtesie stands for quality that’s backed
have sector-specific and business jargon
the recession to become an international
by ISO 17100 (translation) and ISO 18441
that is at least as important to know.
company serving customers around the
(interpretation) certification. That means its
Courtesie’s translators all have specialized
globe. Today, Courtesie supplies sworn
translation processes have been approved
backgrounds and are native speakers,
translations, interpretation services,
and that its interpreters, translators and
stresses Antoinette. ‘In the field of law,
language training and other language
revisers meet industry criteria. ‘Always
for example, you deal with a lot of court
services in more than 100 languages for
paired with the courteous and customer-
documents like summonses, conclusions
businesses and professionals across all
focused approach that the name Courtesie
and decisions. That’s complex material
industries.
represents’, adds Antoinette.
with a high risk factor. Knowledge and
52 •
experience of the particular area of law
‘Courtesie is more than a supplier. Being a partner forges a mutual commitment and affinity with a sector.’
are a must to translate those kinds of documents competently. It makes practical sense to entrust all those languages to us in order to efficiently ensure consistency. Take something like package inserts for medications, which often require
says. ‘Being responsive to developments
CSR: DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
translations into as many as 10 or 15
and trends in their sector is key, and that
Diversity and inclusion are key values at
languages. It’s good if a single agency can
takes flexibility’. Courtesie offers 24/7/365
Courtesie. The agency strives in pragmatic
do that in a uniform way.’
availability to keep pace with all time zones,
ways, in partnership with specialized
tight deadlines and ongoing developments.
organizations, to help people who are
GROWING TOGETHER
That’s a deliberate choice: ‘Personal
at a disadvantage on the labour market
Courtesie invests in lasting relationships. Its
service, confidentiality and customized
find worthwhile work. It starts with a
aim is always to be a partner to clients, thus
solutions are essential for our clients. The
positive mindset and the drive to create
building mutual trust and greater affinity
project managers at Courtesie always cater
opportunities. For Courtesie, that vision
with their sector. For clients – and their
to their individual wishes.’
has resulted in a diverse and inclusive
clients – it’s crucial to have someone who’s always on board with them, Antoinette
team and in lasting partnerships.
BEYOND LANGUAGE The playing field in which companies
ANTOINETTE CHIN A LOI-DE HOOG
operate is growing ever broader. When
COURTESIE INTERNATIONAL
doing business abroad, the cultural
BUSINESS AFFAIRS
dimension matters. ‘Business is typically
Translation, Interpretation, Language
done in English, but you’ll make more of an
training, Business support
impression with an interpreter who knows
100+ languages
the language as well as the customs and values’, says Antoinette. ‘It shows you’ve
Gustav Mahlerplein 12
made an effort and that forges commitment
1082 MA Amsterdam
and trust in your business partner. Our customized language training can help with
World Trade Center Almere
that too.’ Courtesie offers both private and
P.J. Oudweg 4
group-based lessons. Whether focused on
1314 CH Almere
a field like legal English, or on a language for intercultural communication within
+31 (0)36 760 24 77
a department. Business directors and
+31 (0)6 11 19 95 99
executives with international duties rely on
info@courtesie.com
Courtesie for discreet personal language
www.courtesie.nl
tutoring - also online.
Text Nicole Pak • Photography Caily Bobbie Jo
• 53
ARCHITECTURE
ZUIDAS ARCHITECTURE
Van der Valk Hotel: wake up with Zuidas Address Tommaso AlbinonistraatÂ
Architect
Wiel Arets Architects
Building owner Van der Valk family
Zuidas is renowned for its pioneering work in architecture. As it matures into an
Main user
Valk Exclusief
international quarter of Amsterdam, buildings are shooting up right and left in
Completed in
3 July 2020
Zuidas. Amidst all these modern skyscrapers, it may be difficult to imagine that just
Floors 13
about 20 years ago this stretch of land connecting the residential neighbourhoods
Height
55 metres
of Zuid and Buitenveldert consisted mostly of tennis courts and football pitches. In
Floor area
26,099 m
this series we zoom in on the architecture of Zuidas. This time, we take a closer look
2
at the Van der Valk Hotel.
54 •
ARCHITECTURE
BREEAM OUTSTANDING CERTIFICATE
waters. This prevents clean rainwater
FACTS
Zuidas was already famous for its
from emptying into the sewers and
• Van der Valk Zuidas has a
cutting-edge architecture, but project
helps to maintain groundwater levels
transcritical CO2 refrigeration
developers are increasingly being
naturally. Lighting is similarly keyed to
system. This system uses a
challenged to design buildings to the
sustainability, using energy-efficient LED
natural refrigerant instead
highest sustainability standards. Van der
lights that adjust to the available daylight
of environmentally harmful
Valk Hotel Zuidas is a perfect example and
and presence of people. The plain façade
boasts a BREEAM Outstanding certificate.
serves to emphasize the building’s
First of all, the eye-catching structure
glass shell and affords spectacular,
fitness and wellness centre where
is notable for its unusual shape. At one
unobstructed views. In counterpoint
guests enjoy an impressive view
end the plot on which it sits angles to a
to the angular exterior, the interior
sharp point, which has been integrated
features soft, rounded forms paired with
• Restaurant patrons will enjoy more
in the hotel’s design. The end result is a
eco-minded, natural influences, such as
than just the food: both the à la
glass triangle raised on a concrete base.
green walls and sustainable wood. That
carte restaurant and tableside
Occupying this lower section is the car
creates an interesting contrast between
service restaurant are designed to
park, deliberately incorporated into the
the inside and outside of the hotel.
serve dinner-with-a-view.
building itself and thus elevating the
The remaining seven floors are occupied
section housing the hotel.
by hotel rooms which, thanks to the
consist of parking levels plus
hydrofluorocarbons. • On the building’s top floor is a
while working or chilling out.
• The first four storeys of the hotel
glass exterior, provide all guests with a
three ‘social return’ spaces to host
ROOMS WITH A VIEW
‘room with a view’. From their beds,
temporary shows by young artists
On the roof are solar panels and a
they can literally see Amsterdam’s
starting from February 2021.
rainwater system that drains into public
Zuidas wake up.
• 55
HELLO ZUIDAS FM PLATFORM
#INTERVIEW with Dirk Beljaarts
DIRK BELJAARTS
56 •
HELLO ZUIDAS FM PLATFORM
The Hello Zuidas Hospitality Sector Consultation meets with local sector members three times a year to discuss how to put Zuidas even more firmly on the map as a central city hotspot. To accomplish the transition from business district to a mixed-use residential and working community, we need to bring our streets to life, also beyond office hours. Hotels and eateries make an important contribution to the vibrancy of Zuidas. On 4 November 2020, all sector members logged on for an online Hello Zuidas Hospitality Sector Consultation with special guest Dirk Beljaarts, CEO of KHN (Koninklijke Horeca Nederland). Representing 19,000 hospitality businesses in the Netherlands, KHN is a leading voice in the public debate around the coronavirus response. Dirk, you have a special connection
since no one’s to blame for this virus. At the
It’s strange to say the least – and suspicious
with Zuidas. Could you explain?
same time, the fact remains that government
– that the administration has still
‘Yes, I was director at Novotel Amsterdam
has hospitality businesses and SMEs to thank
offered no scientific evidence that these
City for almost five years, and so spent a
for the deep pockets it has now. But aside
businesses in particular are contributing to
lot of time in Zuidas during that period. I
from gratitude, there’s a lot of anxiety. The
the spread of the virus. Even after all these
have fond memories of that time aa well as
government’s financial assistance package
months, it has yet to provide proof that
made many connections and friends. I also
simply does not suffice for most places to
the measures are proportionate. There’s
saw how quality of life in Zuidas improved
weather this crisis. Hospitality business
still no prospect of reopening, and that’s a
with the big rise in housing, retail and
owners have already had to draw on almost
major source of concern.’
hospitality. And I still visit Zuidas regularly.’
4 billion euros from their own reserves and money, just to keep their businesses afloat
What do you foresee for this sector?
What is KHN’s mission and
and their people employed. Now, many are
‘It’s tough to predict. We know part of that
role during this pandemic?
at a breaking point. Politicians and the
demand will instantly bounce back when
‘KHN supports its members by providing
public seem to think the measures so far
restrictions are lifted. Domestically, for
information, assistance and support in
have been generous and adequate, but they
sure. However, for hotels in big urban areas
dealing with challenges of all kinds. That
haven’t. So, it’s crucial that we continue to
I suspect recovery will be much slower. It
takes the form of services, advice, legal
address the need for additional support and
will take time for international business and
assistance, benefits and lobbying. We
future steps.’
leisure travel to pick up to old levels, and for
advocate for the sector in The Hague where
conferences and trade fairs it will be years
we ensure policymakers have relevant sector
What’s your take on all the measures?
before they’re back to generating pre-crisis
data and advise them on what it needs.’
‘The measures to shutter eating and
numbers and revenues. This is a ‘hidden’
drinking establishments are restrictive.
hardship, since ministries are all focused on
How has the sector
That decision has been a gut punch for
the acute emergency. That makes sense, but
responded to the measures?
operators in this sector. They’ve poured
it’s also worrying. At KHN, we’ve long been
‘It really varies. On the whole, businesses are
their hearts and souls in their businesses,
calling to look ahead to the mid to longer
very grateful te receive financial assistance,
and all they want is to cater for their guests.
term and come up with some clear policy.’
• 57
INTERVIEW
Amsterdam sustainability agenda:
WHAT CAN
JOSJA VAN DER VEER, DIRECTOR OF PLANNING AND SUSTAINABILITY AT THE CITY OF AMSTERDAM & FRANK TAZELAAR, HEAD OF SUSTAINABILITY AT THE CITY OF AMSTERDAM
58 •
INTERVIEW
The City of Amsterdam is seeking to conserve energy, generate only green energy and reuse all resources and materials in a circular chain. To do that, the city council has framed clear ambitions. It aims to reduce CO2 emissions by 55% in 2030 and by 95% in 2050. Before 2040, the city intends to be off natural gas, and in ten years’ time all road and water traffic will be emissions-free. By 2050, Amsterdam will be a circular city where everything that’s produced and consumed is renewable. It will also be equipped to deal with the impacts of climate change, including flooding, increased droughts and heat, and changes in biodiversity. Hello Zuidas met up with Josja van de Veer, former director of Corporate Real Estate and Facilities at VU Amsterdam and current director of Planning and Sustainability at the City of Amsterdam, and with Frank Tazelaar, head of Sustainability at the City of Amsterdam.
WE EXPECT? Josja and Frank, what tasks lie ahead for the
freeing up space in the railway tunnel so more intercity
city in terms of its sustainability objectives?
trains can run at the national level.’
Frank: ‘If you look at the major transitions we’re tackling within the
Frank: ‘We want to make the city radically greener. So, instead of
City of Amsterdam, you’re talking a green blue city powered by 100%
designing first and then looking if there’s space left for planting,
green energy and the major transition to a circular economy. These are
you flip it around and start at the other end. This factors in low-
challenges facing almost all urban areas, because they’re responsible
traffic zones, more electric mobility and more room for bicycles
for 70% of the sum total of emissions. Sustainability is a very concrete
and pedestrians. Another key objective is an inclusive city in which
issue in cities and one where you can make a real difference.’
everyone has equal opportunities to live, work, get an education
Josja: ‘A green blue city means a city that’s green and healthy. In the
and get around, and the way to do that is by mixing residential and
Gershwin neighbourhood in Zuidas you can see it clearly, and around
other uses. The vision will be made public shortly so people
De Boelelaan there’s also a lot of water storage and green public
– including in Zuidas – can have a chance to respond.’
space. That in turn has a positive effect on the climate. There’s an incredible amount of knowledge within the City of Amsterdam and, to
Why are we here on VU’s green roof?
me, this is an opportunity to create even better access to that, also in
Josja: ‘To me, this spot stands for connection. I worked here a long
collaboration with commercial operators and stakeholders in Zuidas.’
time, of course, but also the connection to the young generation. There are 25,000 students walking around here and we’re working on
Sustainability also ties in with the city’s
sustainability for this generation and their children. If we don’t do this
departments of Mobility and Public Space,
right now, it will literally be too late. I feel that urgency constantly.’
Housing, and Economic Services. To what degree are sustainability efforts being coordinated?
Josja, up until last year you were the director
Josja: ‘The city is engaging with all residents and stakeholders
of Corporate Real Estate and Facilities and chair
to develop a vision for the local environment that fits in with the
of the Hello Zuidas Foundation’s Supervisory Board.
Environment and Planning Act. That’s a new law that replaces all
How do you look back on that period?
the old planning and environmental requirements. It’s premised
Josja: ‘I’m immensely proud of all we accomplished together.
on all citizens having the same level of information and having
You can see the campus has been transformed and is now much
a say in the city’s future. To guide that process, our job as the
greener and more open. We’ve also improved our facilities for
city government is to set out a vision. This vision, which covers
scientific research. On top of that, we have much stronger ties
the period to 2050, is specifically metropolitan rather than local
with companies in Zuidas, so this is growing into a true innovation
in scope, since that’s the only way we can solve and get to work
district. The VU Campus is no longer an island. It’s connected to the
on issues fast. Within the metro region, we want to relieve the
city. Hello Zuidas connects the Zuidas community and has been
city centre and get more of a distribution towards, for instance,
part of the district’s transformation. I think the foundation has done
Zuidas. Extending the North-South metro line is part of that,
an incredible job with all it’s achieved.’
Text Romy Lange • Photography Caily Bobbie Jo
• 59
First Zuidas
SUSTAINABILITY AWARD
This year, Green Business Club Zuidas, Hello Zuidas and the Zuidas Amsterdam Development Office will be presenting the first-ever Zuidas Sustainability Award for the most innovative, impactful or inspiring initiative in Zuidas! An expert panel of judges will assess all submissions, announce nominees and ultimately declare a winner. The submissions will all be assembled on the website www.zuidasduurzaam.nl, grouped under the themes: Mobility, Energy, Buildings, Water & Greenery, Waste & Circularity, Society and Public Space. Businesses, organizations and knowledge institutions can submit their cases as from January to make a bid for the title. SUSTAINABILITY REPORT For the last eight years running, Hello Zuidas, Green Business Club Zuidas and the Zuidas Amsterdam Development Office put together the Zuidas Sustainability Report, setting out the past year’s most important sustainability initiatives and measures. The new Zuidas Sustainability Award will replace the Zuidas Sustainability Report. The award and publication of all submissions on www.zuidasduurzaam.nl will help anchor the myriad sustainable initiatives in Zuidas, share knowledge and provide inspiration for further efforts.
60 •
SELF-SUFFICIENT Another case from the report that made headlines last year is the development of the De Puls building. This concept by VORM Ontwikkeling was selected for development of the vacant parcel between the A10 motorway and SC Buitenveldert sports pitches in 2019. Scheduled to be completed in 2023, De Puls will be a sustainable urban biotope with homes, offices and amenities. The building will be wholly energy self-sufficient, generating power via solar panels on the façade and roof. In addition, high-quality energy flows from one tower will feed into the other, so no energy is lost. The municipality is creating a park on the ground floor, and a green rooftop garden will be planted between the two towers.
ZERO WASTE ZUIDAS A notable case from the 2019 Zuidas Sustainability Report was the Zero Waste Zuidas project in which 27 companies committed to make the district waste-free by 2030. The first steps were taken in 2019. One of the great merits of this project is that by joining forces, companies can effectively ratchet up sustainability criteria for waste processors.
AMAZE APP Yet another noteworthy case from the 2019 Zuidas Sustainability Report is the mobility solution Amaze. The tender for Mobility as a Service (MaaS) in Zuidas was awarded to a consortium of Amber, Radiuz, Transdev and Over Morgen. Working together as Amaze, they’re creating an app of the same name that can be used to plan, book and pay for travel. With the Amaze app, you’re assured the best combination for the most efficient journey.
Photography Jan Vonk
Modalities offered include public transportation, shared cars,
MORE INFORMATION
shared bikes and taxis.
www.zuidasduurzaam.nl
• 61
FINANCE
Finance News From bees to balancing act: BIODIVERSITY LOSS SHAKES UP FINANCIAL SECTOR AND HITS HOME IN ZUIDAS BIODIVERSITY encompasses every conceivable form of life on earth, including variations within species, between species and between ecosystems.
CAUSES of biodiversity loss are: changes in land use, overexploitation, pollution, introduction of exotic species and climate change.
THE FINANCIAL RISKS OF BIODIVERSITY LOSS The Dutch national bank (DNB) and the PBL Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency reported last summer that Dutch banks, insurance companies and pension
In recent months some twenty bee hotels were set up around the district as part of
funds have a combined 510 billion euros
the Zuidas Amsterdam Development Office’s Building the Future project. But even as
in outstanding loans to organizations with
bees got buzzing outside, inside the offices buzzing started as well – about the financial
high or very high ecosystem dependency3.
sector and the potential impacts of biodiversity loss. What’s going on?
This capital – constituting a third of their portfolios – is exposed to direct risk as a
Over the last fifty years there’s been
catastrophe. The European Commission
a 68% decline in global species
has estimated the economic value of
populations1, and according to the most
wildlife diversity at as much as 40 trillion
Physical risk
recent count, ecosystems in one in five
euros a year – that’s more than half
The report distinguishes between three
countries are on the brink of collapse2.
of global GDP. The fragile relationship
categories of risk. The first is physical
Apart from the societal impacts, this
between the ecology and economics is
risk, which affects companies whose
entails a financial and economic
starting to hit home for all of us.
continuity would be threatened by loss
62 •
result of biodiversity loss.
FINANCE
use in farming. Organizations that are able
CIRCL
to adapt in time will run the lowest risk.
LEILA JASPERS
This information is provided in association with Circl. Circl was
Reputation risk
created by ABN AMRO as a place to
The third and final risk category is
share knowledge about circularity
reputation risk. Going forward, and
and provide clients with sound,
especially as financial (and other)
reliable advice. As a circular platform
institutions are expected to be more
in Zuidas, Circl is also where the
transparent, there will be increasing risks
forces powering society, business and
for any involvement in activities such as
finance work together to take action
deforestation and pollution.
for a sustainable world.
FINANCE FOR BIODIVERSITY PLEDGE
CELINE PESSERS
of biodiversity. These physical risks arise
The good news is that de financial sector
from dependency on what are known as
is starting to take first steps. A few months
ecosystem services derived from wildlife.
ago, 26 banks and asset managers around
MORE INFORMATION
A good example is insects, which pollinate
the world (representing a combined 3,000
Read the extended version of this
roughly three-quarters of all global crops
billion dollars in managed assets) signed
article on the website of Circl. (Circl.nl)
and represent an economic value of 200-
the Finance for Biodiversity Pledge. The aim
If you’re seeing the effects of
500 billion dollars annually4.
is shared development and application of
biodiversity loss in your day to day
uniform methods to measure and report
work, or want to join in discussing
Transition risk
biodiversity losses. DNB has also advocated
the issues raised in this article,
The second risk category is transition risk.
for this and is advising financial institutions
please get in touch. Leila Jaspers and
This risk applies to organizations that are
to step up integration of biodiversity risks in
Céline Pessers work at ABN AMRO’s
unable to adapt their operational activities
their strategies and processes.
Sustainable Finance Desk and analyse
to changing statutory rules, or to do so fast
how biodiversity loss affects the bank’s
enough. The problems with nitrogen in the
THE NEED FOR SYSTEMIC CHANGE
Netherlands count as a good example that
Nice as it is to see all those bee hotels
we’re witnessing now, but EU legislation
going up in Zuidas, the real task facing us
Leila.jaspers@nl.abnamro.com
is also coming our way. The European
entails a systemic change. It encompasses
Celine.pessers@nl.abnamro.com
Commission has mapped out a biodiversity
cooperation between authorities, industry,
strategy for 2030, which sets ambitious
financial services and science - not only to
targets – including protection for 30%
mitigate the risks, but above all to create a
of EU land and seas – and that will have
positive future for all creatures on this planet.
implications for numerous industries, like
That’s a worthwhile sentiment to ponder
the mandatory 50% reduction in pesticide
next time we pass a buzzing bee hotel.
Text Leila Jaspers & Céline Pessers • Photography Lotte de Graaf
commercial clients.
1 2 3 4 5
WWF Living Planet Report 2020 The Guardian: Nations at risk of ecosystem Persbericht: DNB en PBL: Biodiversiteitsverlies leidt tot financiële risico’s Factsheet Business Case Biodiversity Finance for biodiversity
• 63
64 •
‘LOVE OR GENEROSITY’
New artwork stands tall in courthouse forecourt! At more than five metres tall, Nicole Eisenman’s artwork Love or Generosity is hard to miss. The sculpture has been erected in front of the new courthouse, on the plaza that’s open to the public. And it’s well worth making a detour to see it up close. The artwork was made by Nicole Eisenman, an American artist best known to the art-going public for her figurative paintings tapping into a broad spectrum of styles from Renaissance painting to modern art. Since 2012, Eisenman has also been making sculptures. Titled Love or Generosity, the artwork represents a gatekeeper of the new courthouse – not a security guard but a gentle soul who offers a moment of respite and consolation. Its impressive height is a good match for the new home of Amsterdam’s district court, which rises ten storeys. Yet, tall as it is, the friendly bearing of this ‘gatekeeper’ is sure to attract and elicit curiosity rather than scare people off.
Photography Marcel Steinbach
• 65
MEMO BOARD WINNING DESIGN FOR RAINBOW STAIRS The winning design for the Rainbow Stairs on Zuidplein has been announced. With 1,891 people casting their votes for one of three pre-selected designs, the winner got over 38% of the votes. Meant to promote awareness, visibility and acceptance of LHBTIQ+ people, it features a rainbow in the style of the new Progress Pride Flag. This is the familiar rainbow flag plus an arrow of stripes in five more colours. The colours light blue, pink and white are from the transgender flag, while brown and black symbolize people of colour as well as those who have died of, or are living with, AIDS.
HUNDREDS OF VOCATIONAL STUDENTS GET HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE AT NH AMSTERDAM ZUID The Amsterdam Regional Training Centre (ROC) and NH Amsterdam Zuid hotel, in association with the municipality of Amsterdam, are helping 250 hospitality students re-join the real working world this week. In the coming months this group will grow to 750 students. The NH Amsterdam Zuid hotel on Van Leijenberghlaan has been set up as a temporary training location, where tourism, hotel and
BEACON OF LIGHT RESTORED
facility services students can get hands-on experience, despite the Covid pandemic. They’ll receive supervision and guidance from
With the complex restoration of the light artwork White Noise
NH Amsterdam Zuid staff and hospitality programme instructors.
on top of the 150-metre tall Cellnex media tower, completed on
Thanks to this joint initiative, students will be able to acquire
2 December, the Zuidas skyline has been restored to its former
practical experience they need.
glory. The LED lights needed to be fixed due to wear and tear. The media tower is used for radio (digital radio and analogue emergency alert system), television (digital TV), telecom (mobile networks), microwave transmissions and data centres. It has been one of the city’s tallest structures since 2009, when the tower was not only raised but also ornamented with a design by architect Christof Schwencke. For a better fit with the architectural and design aesthetic of Zuidas, the tower’s concrete shaft was clad in azure-blue light. Conditions up at the top are pretty rough – hence the wear and tear. Temperatures can be stone-cold and there’s no such thing as a soft breeze up there. There’s also a great view of Peregrine falcons bearing down at 360 km per hour on the few pigeons intrepid enough to fly this high.
66 •
MEMO BOARD TCA launches parcel service Same-day delivery! TCA is a trusted name
that last-minute birthday gift arrives on
for personal travel, but did you know they
time. This service does it all! With taxi
carry parcels too? The taxi service has
drivers doing duty as couriers, your parcels
teamed up with YesHugo Delivery to deliver
will be delivered locally in practically no
parcels to your doorstep on the same day
time. Plus, the taxis are equipped with
they’re sent out.
driver behaviour analysis and you can track your parcel live online.
This new partnership responds to two developments: the strong decline in taxi
The five reasons TCA in association with
demand resulting from the coronavirus
YesHugo Delivery is the best option for
crisis and the massive increase in online
parcel deliveries in Amsterdam: Faster –
ordering. The parcel service is available to
Cheaper – Safer – Eco-friendlier – Supports
everyone throughout Amsterdam. Whether
your Amsterdam community. For more
you’re a company keen to treat customers
information and to book your delivery
to tip-top service, or you want to be sure
option: www.tcataxi.nl/yeshugo-delivery
FRED. ROESKESTRAAT DECLARED SMOKE-FREE We’ve got smoke-free office locations, railway stations, sport parks and school squares, and now more and more streets, too. As from 26 November 2020, Fred. Roeskestraat is one of them. Thirty blue tiles scattered up and down the street designate this as a smokefree zone. Behind the initiative are Kiek Verburg and Wytske Kelling, whose children attend the Geert Groote College located here, where teens can regularly be seen lighting up. Verburg and Kelling joined forces and enlisted support from local residents. Several schools and businesses established on Fred. Roeskestraat also rallied to the cause. Though they campaigned for a legal ban, that was too much for the municipality, which agreed to declare the whole street smoke-free instead.
ZUIDASDOK CONSTRUCTION GOES LIVE AGAIN Calling all construction fans! A webcam was recently installed, offering a view of construction of the two roof sections of the new pedestrian passageway at Amsterdam Zuid Station. That means you can watch the work live from both the north and south sides. With work taking place between the tracks and obscured by construction hoarding, watching progress on-site is tricky, but these to webcams allow you a front-row seat. On the north side, the camera is mounted on the roof of the Atrium building and currently offers a view of construction of roof sections 2 and 3 of the future Brittenpassage. Seven sections in all will cover the new passageway’s roof.
Photography Marcel Steinbach
• 67
MEET THE ...
Zuidas is best known as Amsterdam’s business district, chock-a-block with skyscrapers and scores of offices. More recently, however, the district has grown into a veritable urban neighbourhood and a great place to live and hang out. Many businesses have also discovered Zuidas, and with their arrival the district has added a wide range of services and amenities, including shops, schools, fitness centres and places to drink and dine. Powering each of these establishments are entrepreneurs and employees with their own special, personal stories that we’re eager to share with you.
MEET THE
HIKMAT NEAZI
CHOCOLATIER! Leonidas is a household name. The place for the best quality, delectable chocolates – we can never get enough of them! The chocolatier with artisanal ice cream has been established in the Xavier residential building for a year now. And the entrepreneur behind Leonidas Zuidas is Hikmat Neazi. He was happy to talk to us. What brought you to Zuidas? ‘As a resident and business owner in Amstelveen, I’d always followed what was happening in Zuidas with interest. I’d been looking for a good location here for several years and struck gold in 2019. Persistence pays off! I run an artisanal
the centre of Amstelveen, which I started
ice cream parlour called FLOODA and the
some time ago. We’ve built up a large
Leonidas chocolaterie. I call it artisanal
number of regular customers over the
Can you tell us something
because I make the ice cream myself. I took
years. Almost all of them as there for the
about your background?
a special course for that and was trained by
best Butter Chicken – that’s our speciality.’
‘I was born in Afghanistan and came to the
a professional Italian gelato maker who’s
Netherlands when I was 15. That’s 24 years
been at it for 25 years. I use original Italian
You’re incredibly enterprising.
ago now. I still remember the exact date.
recipes and ingredients. And of course I
Does that run in the family?
On 30 May 1996 I arrived at Schiphol, on
also sell delicious chocolates.’
‘My professional background is completely
my own. I’d left everything behind and had
different, as I started out in ICT. Although I
to start over from scratch. These days I run
Besides Leonidas, you also
spent most of my days at a computer in an
two businesses, live in Amstelveen and am
run a restaurant. Tell us more!
office, I knew deep down I had too much
happily married and the father
‘Right, I’m also the proud owner of 7Spices,
energy to keep doing that. One day I saw the
of three children.’
an Indian takeaway and delivery place in
light and the name of that light was 7Spices.’
68 •
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COLOPHON FOUNDATION HELLO ZUIDAS Strawinskylaan 61, 1077 XW - Amsterdam, NL +31 (0)20 333 7441 servicepoint@hellozuidas.com www.hellozuidas.com www.facebook.com/hellozuidas www.instagram.com/hellozuidas/ www.twitter.com/hellozuidas Our goal With an excellent business climate, world-renowned educational institutions within reach, and leading companies in many sectors from many countries, the Zuidas has huge potential. The foundation Hello Zuidas contributes to the Zuidas by realizing a well functioning area. The goal is to promote a district that has international appeal, and high quality working and living conditions. Magazine Hello Zuidas is issued by Zuidas Publishers WTC Amsterdam Strawinskylaan 15 1077 XW Amsterdam +31 (0)20-3620993 info@zuidaspublishers.nl www.zuidaspublishers.nl Editor-in-chief Romy Lange Editor & Sales Nicole Pak Advertising Please send an e-mail to info@zuidaspublishers.nl for questions about advertising. Art Director and Graphic Designer Emiel Brouwers • IMAGEAU Translation Taalcentrum-VU Final Editor Ellen Josée Westrik Editors/contributors Romy Lange, Nicole Pak, Eefje van den Akker, Lindelotte Koster, Greg Shapiro, Lotte Gottschal & Jos Moerkamp Photography Michael Graste, Caily Bobbie Jo, Marcel Steinbach, Lotte De Graaf, Jan Vonk, Davien Hulsman, Wiebrig Krakau, Hans Roggen, Evert Elzinga, Jaiwey Nuij & Twycer Editorial advisory board Olivier Otten, Marius Drissen, Lydia van den Wildenberg, Jos Moerkamp & Sjors Mineur Thanks to Bas Reussien, Hotel The Grand, Zuidas (Gemeente Amsterdam), Van Gooi Elburg, Greg Shapiro, Bouwbedrijf M.J. de Nijs en zonen B.V., Reno van Dijk Media, Miranda van Commenéé, Taxi TCA, Clubsportive, Jasper Ter Stroot, Kiki Droge, Herbert Bergman, Philip Kuipers, Karin Starreveld, Sportcity, Local2Local, Martin Topper, Kees-Willem Rademakers, Pauline Rosenberg, Eline Kik, Stibbe, Engie, Savills, Goede Doelen Loterijen, EDGE, Accenture, Joppe van Onna, Jasper Meijer, Yu-Shaa Vergeer, Julia van Boven, Studio Gyzell, VU Amsterdam, De Hypotheker, Taalcentrum VU, Soundless Acoustics International, Başak Küçük, Marien Glerum, Courtesie International Business Affairs, Van der Valk Hotel, Dirk Beljaarts, Josja van der Veer, Frank Tazelaar, Circl, Leila Jaspers, Celine Pessers, Leonidas & Kroonenberg Printed by Magazine Masters Circulation Free for Zuidas and Amsterdam South. It is be distributed by promo teams, loose circulation, HRM departments of companies within Zuidas to guarantee reaching the (sub) target groups of Zuidas, Amsterdam and Schiphol. Frequency Six times a year (bi-monthly) Copyright © 2021 Zuidas Publishers. All rights reserved. Nothing appearing in this magazine (information, pictures, images) may be copied or reproduced, in any manner whatsoever, unless explicit permission has been given in writing.
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