HET GROENE HET GROENE DAKDAKAn Ecological Housing Development An Ecological Housing Development

in Utrecht, the Netherlandsin Utrecht, the Netherlands

Aerial photo of Het Groene Dak. (www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Differentiatie.html)

Maia Bookoff, Fall 2002

OverviewOverview

Het Groene DakHet Groene Dak, which means “The Green Roof” in , which means “The Green Roof” in Dutch, is an ecological housing development located in the Dutch, is an ecological housing development located in the north-east section of the city of Utrecht, the Netherlands. north-east section of the city of Utrecht, the Netherlands. The project was initiated in 1989 by an association of The project was initiated in 1989 by an association of residents (The Green Roof Association) who “believed that residents (The Green Roof Association) who “believed that taking care [of] the environment is an individual taking care [of] the environment is an individual responsibility,” and “that only a change of conduct and the responsibility,” and “that only a change of conduct and the use of small-scale technology would finally result in a use of small-scale technology would finally result in a better environment.”better environment.”11 What resulted from this thinking was What resulted from this thinking was Het Groene Dak, a housing project “based on principles of Het Groene Dak, a housing project “based on principles of ecological construction and living and accessibility for low-ecological construction and living and accessibility for low-income groups.”income groups.”22 This was the Association’s “individual” This was the Association’s “individual” contribution toward creating a more sustainable future.contribution toward creating a more sustainable future.

Images: www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak

Overview, cont.Overview, cont.The Association agreed upon five main goals for the project:The Association agreed upon five main goals for the project:

1. Incorporate principles of ecological construction and 1. Incorporate principles of ecological construction and lifestyle into the design and building processes. lifestyle into the design and building processes.2. Maximize the influence of the future residents in the 2. Maximize the influence of the future residents in the design and construction of the project. design and construction of the project.3. Create homes for low-income residents.3. Create homes for low-income residents.4. Create homes for households other than the 4. Create homes for households other than the

traditional traditional family. family.5. Maintain work places close to homes.5. Maintain work places close to homes.33

The project thus incorporates environmental and social goals. The project thus incorporates environmental and social goals. Nearly a decade after completion in 1993, the association is Nearly a decade after completion in 1993, the association is satisfied that it has accomplished most of its goals. Due to its satisfied that it has accomplished most of its goals. Due to its emphasis on correcting environmental and social problems, emphasis on correcting environmental and social problems, the development can be considered a successful example of the development can be considered a successful example of sustainable development on a local level.sustainable development on a local level.33

BackgroundBackground

The Netherlands is a country of nearly 16 The Netherlands is a country of nearly 16 million people inhabiting a land mass area million people inhabiting a land mass area of only 33,883 square kilometers, less of only 33,883 square kilometers, less than twice the size of New Jersey.than twice the size of New Jersey.44 In In addition to a population density roughly addition to a population density roughly 16 times that in the United States, the 16 times that in the United States, the Netherlands must deal with a multitude of Netherlands must deal with a multitude of environmental problems, including an environmental problems, including an economy dependent on heavy industry economy dependent on heavy industry and agriculture, “its position as a and agriculture, “its position as a transportation hub for all of Europe,” and transportation hub for all of Europe,” and its geographic location along the Rhine, a its geographic location along the Rhine, a river known for its high levels of river known for its high levels of pollution.pollution.55

Map of the Netherlands. (

www.hotels-europe.com/info-countries/ netherlands/map.htm

)

Official Flag of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. (www.dinosaur.org/dinocalendar.html)

Background, cont.Background, cont.

The 1960s and 70s saw the development of a host of The 1960s and 70s saw the development of a host of environmental policies in the Netherlands to address these environmental policies in the Netherlands to address these problems. Similar to the policies of other countries at that problems. Similar to the policies of other countries at that time, however, Holland “initially ignored the time, however, Holland “initially ignored the interrelationships between issues and their overall effects on interrelationships between issues and their overall effects on ecosystems.”ecosystems.”55 The end result was that the pieces of The end result was that the pieces of legislation put too much pressure and emphasis on industry legislation put too much pressure and emphasis on industry

and failed to truly protect the environment.and failed to truly protect the environment.

Background, cont.Background, cont.

It wasn’t until the early 1980s that the environment It wasn’t until the early 1980s that the environment ministry developed “a more comprehensive, ministry developed “a more comprehensive, management-based approach.”management-based approach.”55 This new approach to This new approach to handling the environment aimed to address both handling the environment aimed to address both environmental and economic issues facing the environmental and economic issues facing the country by involving all sectors of the population country by involving all sectors of the population (government, industry, business, environmentalists, (government, industry, business, environmentalists, citizens groups, etc.) in the design and citizens groups, etc.) in the design and implementation of environmental policies. The end implementation of environmental policies. The end result of this strategic shift was parliament’s adoption result of this strategic shift was parliament’s adoption of the National Environmental Policy Plan (NEPP) in of the National Environmental Policy Plan (NEPP) in 1989, the oldest functioning example of a green plan.1989, the oldest functioning example of a green plan. 66

National Environmental Policy Plan National Environmental Policy Plan (NEPP)(NEPP)

Coming on the heels of the United Nation’s 1987 Coming on the heels of the United Nation’s 1987 Brundtland Report, Holland’s NEPP was written as Brundtland Report, Holland’s NEPP was written as “a comprehensive strategy for sustainable “a comprehensive strategy for sustainable development that explores the economic and social development that explores the economic and social concerns of maintaining a healthy environment.”concerns of maintaining a healthy environment.”77 In In order to make the report truly “comprehensive,” order to make the report truly “comprehensive,” many groups were involved in the writing of the many groups were involved in the writing of the report, including the Ministries of Economic report, including the Ministries of Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Fisheries, Transportation Affairs, Agriculture and Fisheries, Transportation and Public Works, and Housing, Physical Planning and Public Works, and Housing, Physical Planning and Environment.and Environment.

Image: www.combinedenergies.com/aboutCE.html

NEPP, cont.NEPP, cont.The report included 223 policy changes aimed at The report included 223 policy changes aimed at achieving national sustainability within 25 years, achieving national sustainability within 25 years, or one generation. Recognizing the complex or one generation. Recognizing the complex processes involved in implementing change, and in processes involved in implementing change, and in order to ensure careful monitoring of its programs, order to ensure careful monitoring of its programs, the NEPP is revised every four years. Each new the NEPP is revised every four years. Each new NEPP that is released builds upon lessons learned NEPP that is released builds upon lessons learned from the previous editions in an attempt to achieve from the previous editions in an attempt to achieve the highest possible levels of environmental the highest possible levels of environmental protection and economic growth.protection and economic growth.55

NEPP: “Themes”NEPP: “Themes”To facilitate the implementation of its policies, the To facilitate the implementation of its policies, the NEPP identified eight “themes,” or general categories NEPP identified eight “themes,” or general categories of environmental problems that needed to be of environmental problems that needed to be addressed: addressed:

1. climate change,1. climate change,2. acidification, 2. acidification, 3. eutrophication,3. eutrophication,4. diffusion,4. diffusion,5. disposal of waste,5. disposal of waste,6. disturbance, 6. disturbance, 7. dehydration, and7. dehydration, and

8. squandering of resources.8. squandering of resources.77

NEPP: “Target Groups”NEPP: “Target Groups”

The NEPP also established a set of eight “target groups” The NEPP also established a set of eight “target groups” who are responsible in large part for these environmental who are responsible in large part for these environmental problems and/or their solutions: problems and/or their solutions:

1. Agriculture, 1. Agriculture, 2. Traffic and Transportation, 2. Traffic and Transportation, 3. Electrical and Gas, 3. Electrical and Gas, 4. Building Trade, 4. Building Trade, 5. Consumers, 5. Consumers, 6. Environmental Trade, 6. Environmental Trade, 7. Research and Educational Institutions, and 7. Research and Educational Institutions, and 8. Environmental and Societal Organizations.8. Environmental and Societal Organizations.77

NEPP: “Target Levels”NEPP: “Target Levels”Once the environmental problems (themes), their Once the environmental problems (themes), their solutions, and the actions of the target groups needed in solutions, and the actions of the target groups needed in order to achieve these goals were identified, the NEPP order to achieve these goals were identified, the NEPP developed a five-level strategy in which to carry these developed a five-level strategy in which to carry these actions out:actions out:

1. Local Level,1. Local Level,2. Regional Level,2. Regional Level,3. Fluvial Level (river basins and coastal areas),3. Fluvial Level (river basins and coastal areas),4. Continental Level (continents and oceans), and4. Continental Level (continents and oceans), and5. Global Level.5. Global Level.77

In taking this multi-level approach, Holland recognized In taking this multi-level approach, Holland recognized that its environmental problems were closely linked with that its environmental problems were closely linked with those in other countries and continents.those in other countries and continents.

NEPP: “Decoupling”NEPP: “Decoupling”In 1989, the Dutch NEPP represented In 1989, the Dutch NEPP represented a unique approach to solving a unique approach to solving environmental problems that sought to environmental problems that sought to simultaneously promote simultaneously promote environmental protection and environmental protection and economic development.economic development.77 Up until this Up until this time, it was commonly thought that time, it was commonly thought that environmental protection could only environmental protection could only be achieved at the expense of be achieved at the expense of economic growth. Yet in the years economic growth. Yet in the years following the implementation of the following the implementation of the NEPP’s policies, the Netherlands has NEPP’s policies, the Netherlands has been able to expand its economy at been able to expand its economy at the same time that it has decreased the the same time that it has decreased the country’s pollution levels. The country’s pollution levels. The government has termed this trend “ an government has termed this trend “ an ‘absolute decoupling’ of economic ‘absolute decoupling’ of economic growth and environmental pressure.”growth and environmental pressure.”55

Graph showing the “absolute decoupling” of environmental protection and economic growth.

( www.rri.org/primer/where.html)

NEPP: Sustainable DevelopmentNEPP: Sustainable DevelopmentThrough an emphasis on “cooperation and Through an emphasis on “cooperation and collaboration” between all groups and sectors of the collaboration” between all groups and sectors of the economy, the Dutch NEPP promotes ideas and economy, the Dutch NEPP promotes ideas and practices of sustainable development. The Plan outlines practices of sustainable development. The Plan outlines several “Strategies Towards Sustainable Development,” several “Strategies Towards Sustainable Development,” including: including:

• energy conservation in homes and businesses, energy conservation in homes and businesses, • maximum use of renewable energy sources, maximum use of renewable energy sources, • reduction in the use of coal and oil, reduction in the use of coal and oil, • promotion of public transportation over car use,promotion of public transportation over car use,• reductions in the use of fertilizers and pesticides, and reductions in the use of fertilizers and pesticides, and • an increase in the recovery of raw materials from waste.an increase in the recovery of raw materials from waste.

77

NEPP: ProactiveNEPP: Proactive

The NEPP takes a very proactive approach to The NEPP takes a very proactive approach to solving its environmental problems through the solving its environmental problems through the deliberate creation of themes, target groups, and deliberate creation of themes, target groups, and target levels. This strategy emphasizes the target levels. This strategy emphasizes the prevention of problems instead of the treatment of prevention of problems instead of the treatment of their symptoms.their symptoms.77 Overall, the strategies outlined Overall, the strategies outlined in the NEPP have served as a blueprint for in the NEPP have served as a blueprint for achieving the goal of national sustainable achieving the goal of national sustainable development within a 25 year time frame.development within a 25 year time frame.

Dutch Social HousingDutch Social HousingIn addition to addressing environmental problems with In addition to addressing environmental problems with its National Environmental Policy Plan, the its National Environmental Policy Plan, the Netherlands has a relatively unique history of Netherlands has a relatively unique history of promoting the construction of “social housing,” promoting the construction of “social housing,” another term for subsidized housing. A host of several another term for subsidized housing. A host of several hundred non-profit “Housing Associations” exist hundred non-profit “Housing Associations” exist throughout the country, providing some 2 million throughout the country, providing some 2 million dwellings to residents of middle and lower incomes. dwellings to residents of middle and lower incomes. Through active government participation in the Through active government participation in the housing market, in the form of subsidies and loans, housing market, in the form of subsidies and loans, social housing developments have flourished social housing developments have flourished throughout the country.throughout the country.88

Image: www.niaid.nih.gov/publications/allergens/dustmite.htm

Dutch Social Housing, cont.Dutch Social Housing, cont.In Holland, according to researcher Vivienne In Holland, according to researcher Vivienne Milligan, Milligan,

37% of all housing units are in the social 37% of all housing units are in the social housing sector of the housing market,housing sector of the housing market,

cities contain 45-65% of social housing units, cities contain 45-65% of social housing units, andand

30% of all new developments are required to 30% of all new developments are required to be low cost units (although the reality is be low cost units (although the reality is 20%).20%).99

Het Groene DakHet Groene DakIt is no coincidence that the idea for Het Groene Dak (“The It is no coincidence that the idea for Het Groene Dak (“The Green Roof”) materialized within the same year, 1989, as the Green Roof”) materialized within the same year, 1989, as the Netherlands’ NEPP. Conceptualized as an “ecological housing Netherlands’ NEPP. Conceptualized as an “ecological housing project” that embodies concepts of “ecological construction” project” that embodies concepts of “ecological construction” and social consciousness, the project embodies ideas of and social consciousness, the project embodies ideas of sustainable development as well as reflects the environmental sustainable development as well as reflects the environmental and social awareness that was emerging at the time within the and social awareness that was emerging at the time within the country.country.33

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Water.html)

Het Groene Dak, cont.Het Groene Dak, cont.According to a former resident of the project, the original members of According to a former resident of the project, the original members of the Green Roof Association, who put together the idea for the project, the Green Roof Association, who put together the idea for the project, were very sensitive to environmental and social issues such as were very sensitive to environmental and social issues such as sustainable development and social inclusiveness. What developed out sustainable development and social inclusiveness. What developed out of these concerns was a plan for a housing project that attempts to of these concerns was a plan for a housing project that attempts to address ideas of environmental sustainability and affordability in its address ideas of environmental sustainability and affordability in its construction. The project also stressed the cooperation and full construction. The project also stressed the cooperation and full involvement of the future residents in the planning and building involvement of the future residents in the planning and building process, another aspect of the project’s philosophy that is consistent process, another aspect of the project’s philosophy that is consistent with the NEPP.with the NEPP.1010 The project thus exemplifies aspects of sustainable The project thus exemplifies aspects of sustainable development, which stresses the maintenance of environmental and development, which stresses the maintenance of environmental and social equality throughout the generations.social equality throughout the generations.

The Community. (www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak)

LOCATIONLOCATION

The Green Roof project is located in the The Green Roof project is located in the north-east section of Utrecht, a city just north-east section of Utrecht, a city just 35 kilometers35 kilometers south o south of Amsterdam with a f Amsterdam with a population of roughly 233,600.population of roughly 233,600.1111 Although it is not the most ideal Although it is not the most ideal location, due to the fact that a six lane location, due to the fact that a six lane motorway runs next to it, this site was motorway runs next to it, this site was chosen for the project because a chosen for the project because a municipal plan to develop the area municipal plan to develop the area already existed. The site is also a 10 already existed. The site is also a 10 minute bikeride or a 15 minute busride minute bikeride or a 15 minute busride from the city center, and is thus from the city center, and is thus relatively convenient.relatively convenient.1010

Utrecht. ( www.uu-cbg.nl/utrechtmap.htm)

(www.projektnews.cz/mbul01cz.htm)

Location, cont.Location, cont.The Green Roof Association considered The Green Roof Association considered locating the project on a different plot of locating the project on a different plot of land near a wooded area and away from land near a wooded area and away from car traffic, but decided against it when car traffic, but decided against it when they discovered that it was not yet marked they discovered that it was not yet marked for development. This would have delayed for development. This would have delayed the construction of the project for five the construction of the project for five years, a setback that was not worth it to years, a setback that was not worth it to the highly motivated Association, who the highly motivated Association, who wanted to begin the project as soon as wanted to begin the project as soon as possible. In addition, beginning right away possible. In addition, beginning right away was important to the maintenance of the was important to the maintenance of the group’s cohesion.They made the right group’s cohesion.They made the right decision because to this day the site decision because to this day the site remains undeveloped.remains undeveloped.1010

Design and ConstructionDesign and ConstructionThe Association was adamant about The Association was adamant about the involvement of the future the involvement of the future residents in every step of the design residents in every step of the design and construction process to ensure and construction process to ensure that the environmental and social that the environmental and social goals of the project were met. goals of the project were met. Therefore, all decisions about the Therefore, all decisions about the project were made on a consensus project were made on a consensus basis.basis.1010 One of the first decisions One of the first decisions made was to design the layout of made was to design the layout of the homes “to maximize the south-the homes “to maximize the south-facing solar potential, and at the facing solar potential, and at the same time to create” an interior, same time to create” an interior, common garden common garden (Beatley, 2000; p.88). (Beatley, 2000; p.88).

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Water.html)

Design and Construction, cont.Design and Construction, cont.In order to meet the goal of In order to meet the goal of including low-income residents including low-income residents and non-traditional families, the and non-traditional families, the development was designed to development was designed to include a mix of rental units and include a mix of rental units and owner-occupied dwellings. A total owner-occupied dwellings. A total of 66 units were built, 40 rentals of 66 units were built, 40 rentals and 26 privately owned and 26 privately owned (Beatley, (Beatley, 2000; p. 87).2000; p. 87). Architect Tjerk Architect Tjerk Reijenga designed the housing Reijenga designed the housing units.units.22 In addition, much thought In addition, much thought was put into the materials and was put into the materials and processes involved in constructing processes involved in constructing the homes in an attempt to make the homes in an attempt to make them as environmentally friendly them as environmentally friendly and sustainable as possible.and sustainable as possible.1010

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Water.html)

FinancingFinancingA social housing association, presently under the name A social housing association, presently under the name Portaal, built the rental homes while a private Portaal, built the rental homes while a private developer/investor financed and constructed the owner-developer/investor financed and constructed the owner-occupied units.occupied units.

Because the financing for the project was Because the financing for the project was

split between two separate entities, there was no overall split between two separate entities, there was no overall fixed budget for the entire project. However, because the fixed budget for the entire project. However, because the housing was targeted toward lower-income residents and housing was targeted toward lower-income residents and involved ecologically sustainable design aspects, the involved ecologically sustainable design aspects, the project received many subsidies and donations from project received many subsidies and donations from various sources, including the Province and City of various sources, including the Province and City of Utrecht, the water utility company, and the Ministry of Utrecht, the water utility company, and the Ministry of the Environment and Housing.the Environment and Housing.1010 In the end, “over 11,000 In the end, “over 11,000 guilders was made available per dwelling for guilders was made available per dwelling for environmental measures.”environmental measures.”22

Dutch guilders. (www.roadracers.uk.com/assen.htm)

Privately Owned HomesPrivately Owned HomesBecause the homes in The Green Roof Because the homes in The Green Roof were targeted toward lower income were targeted toward lower income residents, the private developer residents, the private developer received building subsidies from the received building subsidies from the national Ministry of Housing and the national Ministry of Housing and the Environment. At that time, subsidies Environment. At that time, subsidies were based on the size of the dwelling were based on the size of the dwelling being built, but decreased in amount being built, but decreased in amount as the size increased. This strategy as the size increased. This strategy was meant to enable to people of was meant to enable to people of varying incomes to rent homes. varying incomes to rent homes. Subsidies ranged from about 25,000 to Subsidies ranged from about 25,000 to 30,000 guilders for smaller (3-4 room) 30,000 guilders for smaller (3-4 room) homes, to 5,000 guilders for larger (5 homes, to 5,000 guilders for larger (5 room) homes.room) homes.1010

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Brochure.html)

Privately Owned Homes, cont.Privately Owned Homes, cont.The subsidy is given to the builder, The subsidy is given to the builder, in this case the private developer, in this case the private developer, and so the final selling cost of each and so the final selling cost of each unit reflects this amount. Twenty-unit reflects this amount. Twenty-six privately owned homes, of six privately owned homes, of various sizes, were constructed by various sizes, were constructed by the developer, and were sold for the the developer, and were sold for the following prices:following prices:

9 units with 3 rooms each: 142,000 9 units with 3 rooms each: 142,000 guilders,guilders,

11 units with 4 rooms each (the 11 units with 4 rooms each (the “average house”): 165,000 guilders,“average house”): 165,000 guilders,

6 units with 5 rooms each: 182,00 6 units with 5 rooms each: 182,00 guilders.guilders.1010

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Brochure.html)

Rental UnitsRental Units

There are a total of 40 rental There are a total of 40 rental units in The Green Roof units in The Green Roof development:development:

12 have 2 rooms each,12 have 2 rooms each, 16 have 3 rooms each, and16 have 3 rooms each, and 12 have 4 rooms each.12 have 4 rooms each.1010

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Brochure.html)

RentRent

The rent for these units is paid to the housing association who The rent for these units is paid to the housing association who financed their construction. Rent is determined by a “points” system, financed their construction. Rent is determined by a “points” system, as it is throughout the country. The number of points a unit receives as it is throughout the country. The number of points a unit receives depends upon the square meters of the unit, its location, the era in depends upon the square meters of the unit, its location, the era in which it was built, and any energy-saving qualities it might contain. which it was built, and any energy-saving qualities it might contain. The bigger the unit, the closer it is to transit lines, and the newer and The bigger the unit, the closer it is to transit lines, and the newer and more energy-efficient it is, the more points it gets and thus its rent is more energy-efficient it is, the more points it gets and thus its rent is higher. The housing association can ask for rent between a minimum higher. The housing association can ask for rent between a minimum and maximum amount, according to the number of points assigned to and maximum amount, according to the number of points assigned to a unit. This range is in constant flux, therefore it is not possible to a unit. This range is in constant flux, therefore it is not possible to determine the exact rents for The Green Roof rental units.determine the exact rents for The Green Roof rental units.1010

(www.ecb.int/change/bn/bnnl25.htm) (www.ecb.int/change/bn/bnnl10a.htm)

Subsidies For Rental UnitsSubsidies For Rental UnitsSimilar to the subsidies Similar to the subsidies given to private given to private developers, a developers, a government subsidy of government subsidy of between 25,000 and between 25,000 and 30,000 guilders is given 30,000 guilders is given to non-profit builders of to non-profit builders of rental units on the social rental units on the social housing market. These housing market. These subsidies make it subsidies make it financially possible and financially possible and practical for housing practical for housing associations to build associations to build these units.these units.1010

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Brochure.html)

Individual Rent SubsidiesIndividual Rent SubsidiesThe Ministry of Housing and the Environment The Ministry of Housing and the Environment also gives subsidies to individual Dutch citizens also gives subsidies to individual Dutch citizens based on an income-rent equation. The national based on an income-rent equation. The national government has declared that its residents should government has declared that its residents should spend no more than spend no more than 30%30% of their income on of their income on rent. For example, if an individual makes 1,600 rent. For example, if an individual makes 1,600 guilders per month but pays 600 guilders per guilders per month but pays 600 guilders per month in rent (38% of their monthly income), month in rent (38% of their monthly income), the government will give them a subsidy of up to the government will give them a subsidy of up to 300 guilders per month. This subsidy program 300 guilders per month. This subsidy program makes it possible for lower-income residents to makes it possible for lower-income residents to rent homes.rent homes.1010

Collective HomesCollective HomesIncluded in the rental units are two Included in the rental units are two “collective homes,” containing 5 “collective homes,” containing 5 units each. Common bathrooms are units each. Common bathrooms are located on each floor and there is a located on each floor and there is a common kitchen for each building. common kitchen for each building. There are also general purpose There are also general purpose rooms which the residents use as rooms which the residents use as dining areas or music rooms. One of dining areas or music rooms. One of the collective homes runs a store the collective homes runs a store selling organically grown food to the selling organically grown food to the other residents in the development. other residents in the development. Many ecological experiments, such Many ecological experiments, such as compost toilets, were incorporated as compost toilets, were incorporated into these two buildings.into these two buildings.1010

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Differentiatie.html)

Ecological DesignEcological DesignIn building Het Groene Dak, many ecological design aspects were In building Het Groene Dak, many ecological design aspects were incorporated that sought to conserve energy and water as well as incorporated that sought to conserve energy and water as well as fulfill the Association’s goal of “ecological construction and fulfill the Association’s goal of “ecological construction and lifestyle.” These aspects are as follows:lifestyle.” These aspects are as follows:1. Passive Solar1. Passive Solar2. Car Limited Development2. Car Limited Development3. Ecologically-Friendly Building Materials3. Ecologically-Friendly Building Materials4. Double-Glazed Windows4. Double-Glazed Windows5. High Efficiency Furnaces5. High Efficiency Furnaces6. Green Space (Communal Garden)6. Green Space (Communal Garden)7. Greenroof Community Center7. Greenroof Community Center8. Greywater Treatment System8. Greywater Treatment System9. Rainwater Catchment System9. Rainwater Catchment System10. Water Conservation10. Water Conservation11. Compost Toilets11. Compost Toilets12. (Solar) Hot Water12. (Solar) Hot Water

1. Passive Solar1. Passive SolarThe layout of Het Groene Dak’s buildings is such The layout of Het Groene Dak’s buildings is such that it takes advantage of “the south-facing solar that it takes advantage of “the south-facing solar potential” potential” (Beatley, 2000; p. 88).(Beatley, 2000; p. 88). As seen below, As seen below, skylights were also included in the construction of skylights were also included in the construction of the housing to bring in a maximum amount of light the housing to bring in a maximum amount of light and increase the efficiency of the dwellings.and increase the efficiency of the dwellings.1010

Sun Image: www.w3.arizona.edu/~ws (www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Energie.html )

South-facing walls (Left) were built with more windows than north-facing walls (Right) to maximize energy efficiency.

2. Car-Limited Development2. Car-Limited DevelopmentThe Green Roof Association was able to convince the The Green Roof Association was able to convince the municipality of Utrecht to allow them to reduce the municipality of Utrecht to allow them to reduce the number of parking spaces provided for the number of parking spaces provided for the development. Parking requirements in new development. Parking requirements in new developments are typically 1.1 spaces per housing developments are typically 1.1 spaces per housing unit, meaning that Het Groene Dak would have had to unit, meaning that Het Groene Dak would have had to provide over 70 spaces for its 66 units. The city, provide over 70 spaces for its 66 units. The city, however, agreed to reduce the requirement for The however, agreed to reduce the requirement for The Green Roof project to 33 spaces, “recognizing that Green Roof project to 33 spaces, “recognizing that these ecologically minded residents indeed had fewer these ecologically minded residents indeed had fewer cars” cars” (Beatley, 2000; p. 150).(Beatley, 2000; p. 150).

(www.leisuregames.com/directions.htm)

2. Car-Limited Development, cont.2. Car-Limited Development, cont.

The city also gave Het Groene The city also gave Het Groene Dak permission to create Dak permission to create greenspaces in areas that greenspaces in areas that would have otherwise been would have otherwise been reserved for on-street parking reserved for on-street parking (Beatley, 2000; p. 150).(Beatley, 2000; p. 150). The The residents planted trees and residents planted trees and other vegetation, adding to the other vegetation, adding to the overall greenery of the overall greenery of the development development (Beatley, 2000; p. 205).(Beatley, 2000; p. 205).

Greenspaces replace parking spaces.

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Water.html)

3. Ecologically-Friendly Building Materials3. Ecologically-Friendly Building MaterialsA conscious decision was made by the Green Roof Association that, A conscious decision was made by the Green Roof Association that, as much as possible, ecologically-friendly building materials would as much as possible, ecologically-friendly building materials would be used in the construction of the project. In doing so, the be used in the construction of the project. In doing so, the Association hoped to reduce the environmental impact of the Association hoped to reduce the environmental impact of the project and fulfill its first goal (“ecological construction”).project and fulfill its first goal (“ecological construction”).33

A. “A. “Partly-Recycled Concrete” FoundationsPartly-Recycled Concrete” FoundationsThis type of concrete was used because it is made from old concrete This type of concrete was used because it is made from old concrete that would otherwise be thrown away in a land-fill. This thus avoids that would otherwise be thrown away in a land-fill. This thus avoids the problem of taking up land consuming land-fills.the problem of taking up land consuming land-fills.22

B. B. Chalk-Sandstone WallsChalk-Sandstone WallsSandstone is also a very appropriate construction material that Sandstone is also a very appropriate construction material that provides good sound insulation. In addition, unlike bricks or cement provides good sound insulation. In addition, unlike bricks or cement (concrete), it requires less energy in the production process.(concrete), it requires less energy in the production process.1010

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Materialen.html)

3. Ecologically-Friendly Building 3. Ecologically-Friendly Building Materials, cont.Materials, cont.

C. C. Non-Tropical Hard WoodNon-Tropical Hard Wood

Where wood was used, tropical Where wood was used, tropical hardwood was avoided. Instead, on hardwood was avoided. Instead, on the siding of the buildings, Western the siding of the buildings, Western Red Cedar was used, which is said to Red Cedar was used, which is said to last from 30 to 40 years without last from 30 to 40 years without maintenance.maintenance.22

D. D. Environmentally-Friendly PaintEnvironmentally-Friendly Paint

““Environmentally acceptable paint” Environmentally acceptable paint” was used on the inside and outside of was used on the inside and outside of all buildings.all buildings.22

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Materialen.html)

4. Double-Glazed Windows4. Double-Glazed WindowsAll windows are made of All windows are made of double-glazed panes to double-glazed panes to minimize energy loss and minimize energy loss and maximize insulation.maximize insulation.22 In In addition, Scandinavian Fir, addition, Scandinavian Fir, was used to construct the was used to construct the frames for the windows. frames for the windows. Specifically for the Specifically for the moving parts of the moving parts of the windows, small pieces of windows, small pieces of wood (about 10-15 cm) wood (about 10-15 cm) were glued together to were glued together to minimize warping.minimize warping.1010

Windows.

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Materialen.html)

5. High Efficiency Furnaces5. High Efficiency FurnacesHigh efficiency furnaces were installed in all units. High efficiency furnaces were installed in all units. Like mostLike most heating systems in Holland, they burn heating systems in Holland, they burn natural gas to produce heat. However, a more natural gas to produce heat. However, a more efficient design was used in Het Groene Dak, one in efficient design was used in Het Groene Dak, one in which less energy escapes. As opposed to commonly which less energy escapes. As opposed to commonly used central heating systems, which are only 60-70% used central heating systems, which are only 60-70% efficient, the furnaces used in the project are roughly efficient, the furnaces used in the project are roughly 95% efficient.95% efficient.1010

(www.apartments.uchicago.edu/troubleshooting/utilities.html)

6. Greenspace (Communal Garden)6. Greenspace (Communal Garden)

The Association designed the layout of the development in The Association designed the layout of the development in such a way that a large open courtyard was created in the such a way that a large open courtyard was created in the center, surrounded by the housing units. This space has center, surrounded by the housing units. This space has been landscaped into a communal garden with a pond and been landscaped into a communal garden with a pond and community center where residents socialize and children community center where residents socialize and children play. Some units have private gardens “which transition into play. Some units have private gardens “which transition into the larger communal space” the larger communal space” (Beatley, 2000; p. 88).(Beatley, 2000; p. 88).

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Materialen.html) (www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Brochure.html)

6. Greenspace (Communal Garden), 6. Greenspace (Communal Garden), cont.cont.

Although the communal garden is Although the communal garden is technically owned by the housing technically owned by the housing association that owns the rental units, association that owns the rental units, the Green Roof Association pays a the Green Roof Association pays a token “rent” of one guilder per year to token “rent” of one guilder per year to have access to the space. The garden is have access to the space. The garden is maintained by volunteers and a garden maintained by volunteers and a garden group, made up of residents. A monthly group, made up of residents. A monthly maintenance fee is collected from all maintenance fee is collected from all residents in the development. This fee residents in the development. This fee is based on the size of the dwelling is based on the size of the dwelling unit, ranging from 25 guilders per unit, ranging from 25 guilders per month for a 2 room unit to 45 guilders month for a 2 room unit to 45 guilders per month for a 4 room unit.per month for a 4 room unit.1010

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Stedebouw.html)

Pond.

Private gardens.

7. Greenroof7. GreenroofCommunity CenterCommunity Center

The residents themselves worked The residents themselves worked together to construct a Community together to construct a Community Center in the garden. Great care was Center in the garden. Great care was taken in the design and construction taken in the design and construction phases to make the Center phases to make the Center ecologically sound. The walls of the ecologically sound. The walls of the center, for example, are made of a center, for example, are made of a mixture of straw and clay stamped mixture of straw and clay stamped into a temporary wooden frame. This into a temporary wooden frame. This process requires very little energy and process requires very little energy and is known for providing a pleasant is known for providing a pleasant interior climate.interior climate.1010

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Leembouw.html)

Wall in construction phase.

7. Greenroof7. GreenroofCommunity Center, cont.Community Center, cont.

Sustainable technologies such as straw-clay construction were fairly Sustainable technologies such as straw-clay construction were fairly new in the early 1990s, when the community center was built, and new in the early 1990s, when the community center was built, and thus had yet to be finely tuned and perfected. Under these thus had yet to be finely tuned and perfected. Under these circumstances, an error occurred in the construction of the Center, circumstances, an error occurred in the construction of the Center, resulting in parts of the walls rotting. In the year 2000, the structure of resulting in parts of the walls rotting. In the year 2000, the structure of the Center was deemed unsalvageable and had to be torn down and the Center was deemed unsalvageable and had to be torn down and reconstructed. This occurrence exemplifies the “trial and error” reconstructed. This occurrence exemplifies the “trial and error” atmosphere that characterized attempts at sustainable development atmosphere that characterized attempts at sustainable development when it was still in its early stages.when it was still in its early stages.1010

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Leemramp.html)

The rotting walls of the Community Center.Tearing down the walls in order to rebuild them.

7. Greenroof7. GreenroofCommunity Center, cont.Community Center, cont.

In addition to the use of straw-clay mixture in the construction of the In addition to the use of straw-clay mixture in the construction of the Center, the residents built a grass roof instead of a traditional roof.Center, the residents built a grass roof instead of a traditional roof.1010 This type of roof design is called a “greenroof,” and typically consists This type of roof design is called a “greenroof,” and typically consists of covering the entire roof area with soil and vegetation (see picture). of covering the entire roof area with soil and vegetation (see picture). This type of roof has many advantages over traditional roofs:This type of roof has many advantages over traditional roofs:

• Protection from UV rays,Protection from UV rays,• Control of storm water runoff,Control of storm water runoff,• Provision of habitat for animals and plants,Provision of habitat for animals and plants,• Added insulation, andAdded insulation, and• Aesthetic effect Aesthetic effect (Beatley, 2000; p. 205-206).(Beatley, 2000; p. 205-206).

Image: www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Water.html

7. Greenroof7. GreenroofCommunity Center, cont.Community Center, cont.

The Green Roof Association had originally planned to install The Green Roof Association had originally planned to install greenroofs on all of the buildings in the project, thereby giving greenroofs on all of the buildings in the project, thereby giving the project and the Association their names. Due to technical the project and the Association their names. Due to technical and financial constraints, however, this idea was abandoned.and financial constraints, however, this idea was abandoned.22 Although the walls of the Community Center were replaced a Although the walls of the Community Center were replaced a few years ago, the roof was saved and reinstalled on the rebuilt few years ago, the roof was saved and reinstalled on the rebuilt structure.structure.1010

The Het Groene Dak Community Center.(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Energie.html)

8. Greywater Treatment System8. Greywater Treatment System

A greywater treatment system was installed in the 10 dwellings in the A greywater treatment system was installed in the 10 dwellings in the “collective homes.” After going through a settling and aeration “collective homes.” After going through a settling and aeration process, the greywater produced in these homes, meaning waste water process, the greywater produced in these homes, meaning waste water from sinks and showers, is pumped into an outdoor reedbed for from sinks and showers, is pumped into an outdoor reedbed for further processing. It is then fed into the pond in the communal further processing. It is then fed into the pond in the communal garden and finally is deposited as “rain water” into the city’s rain garden and finally is deposited as “rain water” into the city’s rain water sewage system.water sewage system.

Outdoor reedbed.www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Water.html

9. Rainwater Catchment System9. Rainwater Catchment SystemTwelve dwellings have a rainwater catchment system and Twelve dwellings have a rainwater catchment system and use the collected water to flush their toilets. This is use the collected water to flush their toilets. This is estimated to reduce the amount of fresh (“drinking”) water estimated to reduce the amount of fresh (“drinking”) water use by 30%. Some doubts have been raised as to the use by 30%. Some doubts have been raised as to the justification of the system based on its high use of justification of the system based on its high use of electricity. As compared to a normal system, which is electricity. As compared to a normal system, which is connected to the city’s sewers and uses 0.4 kilowatt-hours connected to the city’s sewers and uses 0.4 kilowatt-hours per meter cubed, the rainwater collection system requires per meter cubed, the rainwater collection system requires 0.8 kilowatt-hours per meter cubed. Most of the electricity 0.8 kilowatt-hours per meter cubed. Most of the electricity is used to run the small pumps installed for each toilet. is used to run the small pumps installed for each toilet. There is therefore a tradeoff between energy use and water There is therefore a tradeoff between energy use and water savings that must be reconciled. The system is still in use savings that must be reconciled. The system is still in use today.today.11

9. Rainwater Catchment System, cont.9. Rainwater Catchment System, cont.

Het Groene Dak also diverts its rainwater runoff into Het Groene Dak also diverts its rainwater runoff into the courtyard area to be absorbed by the garden or the courtyard area to be absorbed by the garden or retained in the pond. This strategy is beneficial in that retained in the pond. This strategy is beneficial in that it reduces the amount of rainwater going into the it reduces the amount of rainwater going into the city’s sewer system and, ideally, replenishes city’s sewer system and, ideally, replenishes underground water sources.underground water sources.11

10. Water Conservation10. Water ConservationIn addition to the rainwater catchment In addition to the rainwater catchment and greywater recycling systems, several and greywater recycling systems, several steps have been taken to achieve an steps have been taken to achieve an overall reduction in the amount of water overall reduction in the amount of water used by residents:used by residents:

• Promotion of conscientious behavior by Promotion of conscientious behavior by residents through education and residents through education and awareness,awareness,

• Installation of water-saving sink taps and Installation of water-saving sink taps and showerheads,showerheads,33 and and

• The use of low-flow toilets which save an The use of low-flow toilets which save an average of 2.5 litres of water per flush.average of 2.5 litres of water per flush.22

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Water.html)

11. Compost Toilets11. Compost ToiletsAn experiment with compost toilets was An experiment with compost toilets was undertaken by the Association in the two undertaken by the Association in the two collective buildings whereby, in theory, the collective buildings whereby, in theory, the residents’ organic and human waste would be residents’ organic and human waste would be composted and used as fertilizer. The composted and used as fertilizer. The underlying goal of this project was to “restore underlying goal of this project was to “restore a balance between nature and man” by a balance between nature and man” by recycling human waste as nutrient inputs for recycling human waste as nutrient inputs for the land.the land.1010 In addition, the toilets reduced the In addition, the toilets reduced the flow of waste into the city’s collection system flow of waste into the city’s collection system as well as reduced the amount of water being as well as reduced the amount of water being used by 120 litres per day.used by 120 litres per day.11 The Clivus The Clivus Multrum compost toilet system was installed Multrum compost toilet system was installed (see pictures), and cost the development (see pictures), and cost the development between 100,000 and 150,000 guilders. The between 100,000 and 150,000 guilders. The Association used a portion of the ecological Association used a portion of the ecological subsidies it received to finance this project.subsidies it received to finance this project.1010

Compost toilets.

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Water.html) www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Water.html)

11. Compost Toilets, cont.11. Compost Toilets, cont.The same year that the strawbale walls of the community center were The same year that the strawbale walls of the community center were declared unsalvageable, the compost toilets were abandoned. The declared unsalvageable, the compost toilets were abandoned. The residents who used these toilets had for years been battling with the residents who used these toilets had for years been battling with the toilets in a futile attempt to get the material to actually break down toilets in a futile attempt to get the material to actually break down and compost. They tried varying the amount aeration and carbon and compost. They tried varying the amount aeration and carbon added, digging and stabbing holes in the mixture, and adding worms added, digging and stabbing holes in the mixture, and adding worms to the heap, but nothing worked. In the end, the material was disposed to the heap, but nothing worked. In the end, the material was disposed of with the rest of the residents’ waste in the municipal collection of with the rest of the residents’ waste in the municipal collection system. An additional issue with the toilets was that the machine used system. An additional issue with the toilets was that the machine used to keep the material ventilated required at least 1 kilowatt-hour of to keep the material ventilated required at least 1 kilowatt-hour of electricity per day. These two problems put together led to the electricity per day. These two problems put together led to the decision in the year 2000 to remove the compost toilets and replace decision in the year 2000 to remove the compost toilets and replace them with regular toilets. Similar to the lessons learned with the them with regular toilets. Similar to the lessons learned with the strawbale construction, the Association came to terms with the strawbale construction, the Association came to terms with the technological limitations on ecological sustainability.technological limitations on ecological sustainability.11

Images: www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/ontmanteling.html

12. (Solar) Hot Water12. (Solar) Hot WaterTwo measures were taken in an Two measures were taken in an attempt to reduce the amount of attempt to reduce the amount of electricity required to create hot electricity required to create hot water for Het Groene Dak residents. water for Het Groene Dak residents.

1.1. Washing machines that heat their Washing machines that heat their own water using natural gas were own water using natural gas were installed in several of the units. This installed in several of the units. This technique is called “hot-fill.”technique is called “hot-fill.”1010

2.2. Some units also obtain hot water Some units also obtain hot water from insulated barrels which are from insulated barrels which are heated using solar technology, in heated using solar technology, in other words the sun.other words the sun.1010 “Hot-fill” washing machine.

(www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Energie.html)

Technological ResourcesTechnological ResourcesBecause environmentally-friendly building Because environmentally-friendly building technology was fairly new at the time the project was technology was fairly new at the time the project was built, much of the technology used in constructing built, much of the technology used in constructing Het Groene Dak was imported from Germany, who Het Groene Dak was imported from Germany, who was at the forefront of ecological building research. was at the forefront of ecological building research. The Green Roof Association took a trip to Germany The Green Roof Association took a trip to Germany during the planning stages to gather information and during the planning stages to gather information and research on these technologies.research on these technologies.1010

Social ResourcesSocial ResourcesAs stated in its second goal, the Green Roof Association As stated in its second goal, the Green Roof Association made sure that the future residents were as involved as made sure that the future residents were as involved as possible in the design and construction of the project. possible in the design and construction of the project. Groups were created to focus on different aspects of the Groups were created to focus on different aspects of the project, such as political lobbying for funds, project, such as political lobbying for funds, coordination of the project, and research on coordination of the project, and research on environmental aspects, and weekly meetings were held. environmental aspects, and weekly meetings were held. To this day the residents remain active in the decision-To this day the residents remain active in the decision-making process.making process.1010

ShortcomingsShortcomingsMany of the projects attempted did not work out and had to be Many of the projects attempted did not work out and had to be adapted or abandoned altogether.adapted or abandoned altogether. Such Such projects include:projects include:

-Composting Toilets: technical problems with the composting -Composting Toilets: technical problems with the composting process itselfprocess itself

-Paint: ecologically friendly but not durable over time (e.g. colors -Paint: ecologically friendly but not durable over time (e.g. colors faded, layers wore off and had to be repainted too often)faded, layers wore off and had to be repainted too often)

-Straw/Clay Building: rotting occurred due to design failures (e.g. -Straw/Clay Building: rotting occurred due to design failures (e.g. measurements, thickness of walls, type of timber used)measurements, thickness of walls, type of timber used)

-Water Saving Measurements: rainwater and greywater recycling -Water Saving Measurements: rainwater and greywater recycling systems requires a lot of maintenancesystems requires a lot of maintenance

-Western Red Cedar: Canadian environmental groups have -Western Red Cedar: Canadian environmental groups have objected to the large-scale export of this wood because it objected to the large-scale export of this wood because it comes from ecologically vulnerable areas comes from ecologically vulnerable areas

Success!Success!Overall, however, Het Groene Dak has been termed a Overall, however, Het Groene Dak has been termed a success, both by observers and by residents of the success, both by observers and by residents of the development. Beatley points out that the project’s density of development. Beatley points out that the project’s density of 66 units per hectare “illustrates effectively that higher 66 units per hectare “illustrates effectively that higher density urban living can be achieved at the same time that a density urban living can be achieved at the same time that a strong sense of community and an impressive level of strong sense of community and an impressive level of greenness and greenspace is maintained” greenness and greenspace is maintained” (Beatley, 2000; p. 89).(Beatley, 2000; p. 89). In In addition, the development includes several measures that addition, the development includes several measures that seek to achieve a level of self-reliance and sustainability. seek to achieve a level of self-reliance and sustainability. Through the successful implementation of water- and Through the successful implementation of water- and energy-saving technologies and the inclusion of lower-energy-saving technologies and the inclusion of lower-income residents, the Association is content that it has income residents, the Association is content that it has fulfilled its stated goals. Furthermore, the high level of fulfilled its stated goals. Furthermore, the high level of resident involvement in the building process has resulted in resident involvement in the building process has resulted in a close-knit community that remains committed to this day.a close-knit community that remains committed to this day. 33

Lessons and Larger IssuesLessons and Larger IssuesIn performing research for this project, I discovered that In performing research for this project, I discovered that the Netherlands has been at the forefront of a world-wide the Netherlands has been at the forefront of a world-wide movement toward achieving economic and environmental movement toward achieving economic and environmental sustainability. Until the national government recognized sustainability. Until the national government recognized the interrelationships between different environmental the interrelationships between different environmental problems, however, they were unable to find effective problems, however, they were unable to find effective solutions that did not have a negative impact on the solutions that did not have a negative impact on the national economy. Once this link was established, and a national economy. Once this link was established, and a long-range, comprehensive plan was put in place, the long-range, comprehensive plan was put in place, the Netherlands was able to move forward its goal of Netherlands was able to move forward its goal of achieving sustainable development. achieving sustainable development.

Lessons and Larger Issues, cont.Lessons and Larger Issues, cont.The emergence of Het Groene Dak, on the initiative of The emergence of Het Groene Dak, on the initiative of Dutch citizens, is one example of how this national and Dutch citizens, is one example of how this national and international movement has influenced people to take international movement has influenced people to take individual action on a local level. It also illustrates how a individual action on a local level. It also illustrates how a local initiative is able to succeed with the support of the local initiative is able to succeed with the support of the national government through subsidies.national government through subsidies.

Recent DevelopmentsRecent DevelopmentsSince the completion of the Green Roof ten years ago, Since the completion of the Green Roof ten years ago, many things have changed. For example, many things have changed. For example, environmental issues are now lower on the political environmental issues are now lower on the political agenda. On the one hand, this has meant that many agenda. On the one hand, this has meant that many environmental issues continue to be overlooked (e.g. environmental issues continue to be overlooked (e.g. the widespread use of tropical hardwood). In contrast, the widespread use of tropical hardwood). In contrast, however, the government’s energy-efficiency however, the government’s energy-efficiency standards are steadily increasing, meaning that what standards are steadily increasing, meaning that what was once unique to the Green Roof has now become was once unique to the Green Roof has now become common practice or has even been surpassed. common practice or has even been surpassed. Additionally, the social housing policy is under Additionally, the social housing policy is under pressure due to the conversion of rental units to pressure due to the conversion of rental units to privately-owned houses. This commercialization privately-owned houses. This commercialization promotes individual economic gain over what is best promotes individual economic gain over what is best for the community as a whole. for the community as a whole.

AcknowledgmentsAcknowledgmentsI would like to give special thanks to Michel Post, a I would like to give special thanks to Michel Post, a former resident of Het Groene Dak, who took the former resident of Het Groene Dak, who took the time to speak with me about The Green Roof and his time to speak with me about The Green Roof and his experience living there. I would not have been able to experience living there. I would not have been able to complete this project without his help. complete this project without his help.

--------------This project has been of personal interest to me as I This project has been of personal interest to me as I spent a semester studying at University College in spent a semester studying at University College in Utrecht in Spring, 2003. It was wonderful to be able Utrecht in Spring, 2003. It was wonderful to be able to see the project in person after completing this to see the project in person after completing this report.report.

ReferencesReferences1. Post, Michel. “Self-sufficiency: for environmental reasons or just for fun?” 1. Post, Michel. “Self-sufficiency: for environmental reasons or just for fun?”

Presentation for the winter workshop “Infrastructures of Consumption and Presentation for the winter workshop “Infrastructures of Consumption and the Environment.” Wageningen, 27 November 2000. the Environment.” Wageningen, 27 November 2000.

2. Best Practices Database. “Ecological Residential Area, Het Groene Dak, 2. Best Practices Database. “Ecological Residential Area, Het Groene Dak, Utrecht.” 1996. www.bestpractices.org Utrecht.” 1996. www.bestpractices.org

3. 3. www.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Engels.htmlwww.antenna.nl/atalanta/hetgroenedak/Engels.html4. 4. www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/nl.htmlwww.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/nl.html5. 5. www.rri.org/envatlas/europe/netherlands/nl-index.htmlwww.rri.org/envatlas/europe/netherlands/nl-index.html6. 6. www.rri.org/primer/where.htmlwww.rri.org/primer/where.html 7. 7. www.rri.org/gparchive/nepp.htmlwww.rri.org/gparchive/nepp.html 8. 8. www.nchf.org.au/newsletter21e.htmwww.nchf.org.au/newsletter21e.htm 9. 9. www.housingjustice.org.au/currentissues/nhc 2001/milligan.htmlwww.housingjustice.org.au/currentissues/nhc 2001/milligan.html 10. Post, Michel. Telephone conversation with the author. 11,12 November, 2 10. Post, Michel. Telephone conversation with the author. 11,12 November, 2

December 2002.December 2002.11. 11. www.populations.com/Country.asp?ID=121&CityID=4492www.populations.com/Country.asp?ID=121&CityID=4492 12. Beatley, Timothy. “Green Urbanism: Learning from European Cities.” Island 12. Beatley, Timothy. “Green Urbanism: Learning from European Cities.” Island

Press. 2000. Press. 2000.