SustainaLab Talks: Sponge City

In this edition of SustainaLab Talks, we dive into how to turn our cities into sponges. How can we make Dutch cities resilient to flooding, drought, and the growing demand for water? Join experts from research, business, and policy as we explore innovative ways to build a truly climate-proof future. The program will conclude with drinks and networking.

As the climate changes, managing how we capture, store, and use water has never been more urgent. Rainfall patterns are shifting and extreme downpours are becoming more frequent. Combined with growing urbanisation and the prevalence of paved surfaces, which slow water drainage, cities across the Netherlands are becoming increasingly vulnerable to flooding. At the other end of the spectrum, periods of drought are becoming longer and more severe. Falling groundwater levels put pressure on green spaces, agriculture, and the foundations of our buildings, while the demand for freshwater continues to grow.

The answer may lie in the sponge city, an approach that reimagines urban environments as systems that absorb, store, and reuse rainwater. From green roofs to permeable pavements and water-smart design, these ideas help cities cope with both too much and too little water.

Speakers:

• Daniel Goedbloed, Strategic Advisor at Amsterdam Weerproof — an initiative of Waternet and the City of Amsterdam — will share how the city is preparing for more extreme weather. Bringing together residents, businesses, researchers, and public institutions, Amsterdam Weerproof works to make the city resilient to heavy rainfall, heat, and drought. 

• Dr. Elisabeth Krueger, Assistant Professor at the University of Amsterdam, is an environmental hydrologist whose research explores the resilience and sustainability of urban water systems worldwide. In her talk, she will introduce the concept of water sensitive cities – cities sensitive to water from local to global scales. Here, she will discuss the role of “coastal” cities, such as Amsterdam, for ecological health and human wellbeing and what that means for their adaptation to water extremes.

• Dr. Jannes Willems, Assistant Professor of Urban Planning at the University of Amsterdam, studies how cities prepare for climate change through the creation of new water infrastructures. In his talk, he will explore how planners and water managers are rethinking urban systems to enable sustainability transitions — and what these shifts mean for communities, governance, and everyday urban life. 

• Mark Rotteveel, Ambassador Liveable City and Water Circularity at the Koninklijke Ginkel Group and Stichting Waterpro, brings a practical perspective on how green buildings and landscape design can strengthen urban water resilience. In his talk, he will highlight hands-on solutions that help cities transition from a linear to a circular water system — and what this shift means for creating healthier, more liveable urban environments.

Moderation: Atoesa Farokhi

Who should join?

This event is for anyone curious about sustainability and innovation — from innovative businesses, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to students, researchers, and engaged citizens.

📅 Thursday, 11th of December
🕒 15:30 – 18:00 (including networking drinks)
📍 SustainaLab, Matrix ONE Amsterdam Science Park 301, 1098 XH Amsterdam

Language: English

Cost: Free

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