Green Rotterdam

Rotterdam, situated on the banks of the river Maas near the west coast of the Netherlands, has gained international recognition for being one of the world’s biggest ports. Although the city is over 650 years old, it looks and feels young and vibrant. This is due largely to the city’s structure and its abundance of modern architecture. Rotterdam is a dynamic city that embraces change with an emphasis on innovation and creativity.

Rotterdam Climate Initiative

Rotterdam is aiming to be the world capital of CO2-free energy. This ambitious challenge is met by the Rotterdam Climate Initiative (RCI), a part of the international Clinton Climate Initiative. An initiative of the Port of Rotterdam, the City of Rotterdam, employers’ organisation Deltalinqs and DCMR Environmental Protection Agency Rijnmond, the Rotterdam Climate Initiative creates a movement in which government, organisations, companies, knowledge institutes, and citizens collaborate to achieve a 50% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2025, adapting to climate change while stimulating the economy in the greater Rotterdam area.

Initial concept

The initial RCI concept consists of five categories. Sustainable City focuses on the use of sustainable energy in urban areas. The main objective is to cut down on energy use while offering incentives for the production and use of sustainable energy. Energy Port aims to develop Rotterdam as the CO2 hub for North West Europe, enhance the city’s reputation as energy port for low-CO2 energy sources and products and establish Rotterdam as the most energyefficient port and industrial area of the world. Sustainable Mobility aims to reduce air pollution and CO2 emissions by exploring alternative fuel sources and cleaner engines and by stimulating sustainable modes of public transport. Energising City aims to bring about a change in attitude. The partners in RCI lead by example to create the much needed commitment among the city’s residents and visitors. Finally, Innovation Lab not only focuses on the direct reduction of CO2 emissions but also tries to persuade, mobilise and encourage other parties to join Rotterdam in their efforts to reduce CO2 emissions.

Rotterdam has what it takes

With RCI, Rotterdam makes a tangible effort to maintain its position as one of the world’s leading ports and to create a sustainable future. As former prime minister of Holland and chairman of the Rotterdam Climate Initiative council Ruud Lubber puts it: ‘Rotterdam has what it takes to become the most advanced port in the world in terms of state-of-the-art technology and sustainability, and to preserve that position for many decades to come. The combination of the natural Dutch entrepreneurial spirit and clever ways to take advantage of opportunities as they present themselves allows Rotterdam to achieve concrete results.