Eindhoven is going green: investing in a liveable city
Rik Thijs in his column: “Greenery in the city is not only a necessity for a liveable future, but also simply because it is beautiful.”
Published on June 15, 2025
In the six years I have served as an alderman, I have seen the city become greener, both in the neighborhoods and in the city center. When I cycle to city hall in the morning, I ride along the green Boschdijk and through the city center, which we are currently making greener. That makes me proud. I thoroughly enjoy the transformation the city is undergoing.
But we're not there yet. Our city is growing, and that's precisely why nature is essential. More greenery provides shade and cooling, helps with rain showers, and makes the city healthier and more beautiful. Not only for our residents, but also for the animals.
Climate Log. Read previous installments here.
In Eindhoven, we are once again taking firm steps towards a greener, healthier, and more attractive city center. With an investment of more than € 4.6 million, we are strengthening nature along the Stadsdommel, connecting green spaces along the Gender River, and greening roofs in the city center. The goal? A city that is ready for the future, for people and nature.
The Stadsdommel is of great importance for biodiversity; it connects various parks and nature strips. In a city that continues to grow and densify, it is crucial to maintain and enhance these green zones. The plans strike a good balance between nature conservation and space for recreation, allowing people to walk and sit along the Dommel River and enjoy peace and greenery in their own city.
Gender
The Gender River is now being greened coherently. Where previously there were separate initiatives, a larger plan has now been chosen that connects different places. Thanks to the efforts of committed residents and initiatives like the Friends of the Gender Park Foundation, there is increased attention on biodiversity and quality of life. Consider the greening of Lodewijk Napoleonplein, which will soon become part of a green route connecting Genderpark and Victoriapark.
We are not only making Eindhoven greener at street level. The roofs are also getting a green makeover. The municipality is setting a good example by greening its buildings. In addition, funds will be made available to residents and entrepreneurs who want to make their roofs in the city center greener. This is called Upside Park. It will exist alongside existing subsidies for green roofs elsewhere in the city. Green roofs provide cooling, collect rainwater, and offer space for plants and animals. They not only make the city more beautiful, but also more resistant to extreme weather conditions.
I can't see the green roofs from my bike. Still, I hope that our residents appreciate all the greenery in our city, not only as a necessity for a livable future, but also simply because it is beautiful.
