"This circular pavilion, an initiative of ABN AMRO, is a model of sustainability and innovation."
In the middle of Amsterdam's bustling business district, at Zuidas, there is an unexpected green oasis: the roof garden of CIRCL. This circular pavilion, an initiative of ABN AMRO, is a paragon of sustainability and innovation. The roof garden plays a crucial role in this, not only as an aesthetic addition, but also as a functional and educational element.
CIRCL's roof garden was designed with the principles of circular economy in mind. This means that reused materials and natural processes are used as much as possible in the construction and maintenance of the garden. For example, the planters are made of recycled materials and rainwater harvesting systems are used to irrigate the plants.
One of the striking features of the roof garden is its diversity of flora. The garden houses a wide range of native plant species carefully selected to promote a biodiverse ecosystem. These plants attract various insects and birds, making the roof garden a vibrant and dynamic place. Moreover, the plants help improve air quality and provide natural cooling during hot summer days.
Besides its ecological benefits, the roof garden also plays an important role in CIRCL's social and educational mission. The garden is a place where people come together to relax, hold meetings or learn about sustainable horticulture and circular economy. Regular tours and workshops are organised where visitors can learn more about the different aspects of sustainability and how they are applied in practice.
The roof garden is not only a place for relaxation and education, but also an important part of the building's energy-saving programme. The vegetation helps insulate the building, reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling. This contributes to CIRCL's ambition to operate completely energy-neutral.
CIRCL Amsterdam's roof garden is much more than just a green space in an urban environment. It is a living demonstration of how urban areas can contribute to a more sustainable future by integrating innovative and circular solutions. This garden invites visitors not only to enjoy nature, but also to be inspired by the possibilities of sustainability.
