Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
Fig. 6.3
GWL-Terrein Project, Westerpark, Amsterdam. (Source: From local community associa-
tion, koepelvereniging Gwl-terrein)
heritage. Since the area is close to a major shopping street, schools and other social
facilities, most daily needs can be satisfied locally, reducing the need for local shops
within the complex. Residents have to sign declarations that they understand it is a
car-minimal area and will avoid negative effects on surrounding areas by not park-
ing on adjoining streets. However, they do have access to a 135 unit parking area,
a car-sharing services and extensive storage areas for bicycles. The design included
many ecological features by adding green space, allotments as well as private gar-
dens, and includes many trees—but for safety reasons has few low bushes—while
most of the roads and paths have a filtered permeable surface, with only one hard
surface road into the complex to allow for fire and emergency vehicles. The project
has a major interior green space, while green roofs have been developed on the
larger buildings. High levels of sustainability characterizes both energy and water
use. A central co-generation plant provides district heating. Rainwater is allowed to
drain off naturally; underground water cisterns collect water for use in toilets; water
use is reduced via low flush toilets, and kitchens have separation bins for different
types of waste. It has been estimated that the carbon dioxide emissions from the
development are two-thirds lower than the city average. There is little doubt that
the project appealed to those who have adopted a more sustainable life-style. Like
many other 'low car (bon) communities' in Europe (Foletta and Field
2011
), this
development was preceded by an organized grass-root support for the concept from
the onset; residents were consulted at all stages of the project's evolution and often
modified the original plans. To reinforce the sustainability concept, new residents
are also given booklets about sustainable house-keeping to provide guides for a
