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:

• Dr. Elisabeth Krueger, Assistant Professor at the University of Amsterdam

• Daniel Goedbloed, Syrategic 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. 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. 

• Paco Martina (Growth Marketing Manager) and Max Verbeek (Key Account Manager, Real Estate) at Smartvatten partner with real estate owners and water utilities to optimize consumption. Smartvatten monitors and analyzes usage in real time, detects leaks, and reduces waste. In their talk, Paco and Max show how data-driven insights make buildings more water-efficient and resilient to climate extremes and water scarcity—while raising awareness among building users and owners. 

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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