Dutch research funder NWO awarded four consortia to study how existing buildings in the Netherlands can be renovated for climate resilience and sustainability.
The Netherlands has started four research projects focused on climate-proof renovation of existing buildings. The projects, supported by Dutch research funder NWO, bring together consortia working on different building types and renovation challenges.
This is a practical area of climate work because most future buildings already exist. New construction attracts attention, but millions of people will continue living and working in older homes, schools, offices and public buildings.
Climate-proof renovation can mean better insulation, lower energy use, improved ventilation, protection against heat, moisture management and adaptation to heavier rainfall. In a country like the Netherlands, water and building performance are closely linked.
The four projects are designed to produce knowledge that can be used beyond one demonstration building. That matters because renovation has to scale across streets, neighbourhoods and housing associations, not only in one showcase project.
The useful part of the story is its focus on the ordinary built environment. Making existing buildings safer, cooler, drier and more efficient is less glamorous than a new skyline, but it affects daily life directly.
Source: NWO