Climate adaptation

Imagine: it is 2040. While the thermometer outside keeps rising, our buildings stay pleasantly cool thanks to green roofs and façades. In Utrecht Science Park, trees provide shade on hot days. After a heavy rain shower, the water is not drained into the sewer, but the soil absorbs it like a sponge. This way, the area develops into a green, future-proof campus where nature, innovation and a healthy living environment come together.

At Utrecht University, we work towards that vision every day. Because of climate change, the chance of extreme weather is becoming bigger and bigger: we are dealing with heavy rain and flooding more frequently, or alternatively with longer periods of drought and extreme heat. This can cause damage to our buildings, infrastructure and equipment. This is why we will modify our buildings so they will remain cool in the summer and can withstand heavy rainfall. And we will turn our outside space into a place which retains water and reduces heat.

Our ambition: a university which can withstand the consequences of climate change: we will experience as little damage resulting from extreme rain, heat and drought as possible.

Our approach

Good examples

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  Healthy Heidelberglaan This living lab monitors air quality and user experience and tests solutions for climate adaptation.
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  Future-proof buildings Healthy, energy-efficient and circular buildings for the future.
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  Greening the UBB square This living lab is transforming the UBB’s courtyard into a green oasis.