Planetary boundaries
For over thirty years, we've felt the need for sustainable construction. For us, it's not a style choice, but an obligation to the planet and all its inhabitants. We're doing everything we can to accelerate the revolution in our sector. That's why we're not waiting for mandatory regulations. We're already building Paris-proof today.
The Earth has several systems that function perfectly as long as their boundaries are respected. Studies show that this is not the case. The consequences include climate change, the loss of plant and animal species, ozone depletion, and freshwater shortages.
For us, sustainable building is not a choice of style but an obligation to the planet and all its inhabitants
The planetary boundaries were mapped out in 2009 by a group of scientists led by Johan Rockström and the Stockholm Resilience Centre. In the journal Nature, they demonstrated how humanity can use the planet safely and equitably. There are limits that, scientifically speaking, cannot be exceeded. Humanity has basic needs such as water, food, healthcare, education, housing, income, safety, and equality for all. Between these needs and the limits lies the space we humans can occupy. Above, you can see which boundaries have already been exceeded.
We don't wait for regulations. We're building Paris Proof today
Focusing on CO₂ reduction alone isn't ambitious enough for us. We also want to minimize the use of plastics, microplastics, PFAS, and nanoparticles—so-called "forever chemicals" that accumulate in water, soil, air, animals, and people, and never or only very slowly break down. This also applies to polluted particles floating in the air and harmful to people and animals. For example, the production of uPVC window frames produces little CO₂, but they are toxic and difficult to recycle. That's why we prefer wooden or aluminum window frames. Science is providing us with ever-increasing data and insights. We are constantly aware of the latest developments and integrate them into our designs.
We design buildings that recognize the sunrise, collect and filter rainwater, provide shade, and shelter for plants and animals. Healthy buildings that bring joy to people and protect the planet. Thinking about sustainable construction with our specialists often leads to unexpected insights. For example, building with wood reduces the carbon footprint while simultaneously building faster, biobased, and less toxic. That's good for everyone.
The water storage under the Museumpark parking garage (2010) relieves the sewer system in the center of Rotterdam by as much as 25 percent.
Biosintrum (2018) consists of at least 80 percent biobased materials and received a BREEAM Outstanding certification. The building meets all Paris Proof requirements.
