K.B.J. Van den Berghe
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17 records found
1
Steering WWTP renewal
Cross-sector governance lessons from grid congestion
The expansion and renovation of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in the Netherlands, particularly in the densely populated Randstad region, is becoming increasingly urgent. This urgency is driven by a combination of ageing infrastructure, stricter EU effluent standards, population growth and spatial scarcity. Rather than viewing this as a technical replacement challenge, this study explores WWTP renewal as a complex governance issue where technological, spatial, institutional and financial factors cross. This thesis examines to what extent governance lessons can be drawn from the Dutch energy transition, with a focus on grid congestion, to guide the emerging WWTP challenge. The study employs a qualitative methodology, combining a semi-systematic literature review, two case studies of ongoing WWTP projects in the Randstad and expert interviews from the energy domain. The theoretical analysis consists of a governance framework and the multi-level perspective to evaluate the current state of the WWTP system, complemented by literature on learning loops to categorise cross-sector lessons.
The case studies reveal that while external pressures create a clear need for action, stakeholders lack a shared understanding of the required change. The study identified four governance barriers within WWTP projects: no consensus on problem ownership, different sense of urgency, uncertainty regarding cost allocation and distributed leadership that in one case result in a situation of inertia. Comparing these findings with grid congestion, it demonstrates that similar governance bottlenecks have occurred. However, grid congestion has become more visible because it directly effects societal developments like housing, forcing a more coordinated response.
The study translates insights from grid congestion into actionable lessons for the wastewater sector. Single-loop lessons, which adjust existing routines, include formalising cooperation and escalation arrangements, ensuring continuity through boundary spanners, avoid unscalable pilots, involve municipalities earlier in the process and learn from organisations with similar experiences. Double-loop lessons, which require reframing underlying assumptions, involve formulate a clear and shared task, break the task down into sub-tasks and roles, make those who face impacts co-owners of the problem, create urgency connecting the problem directly to concrete societal impacts.
One of the main findings is that a full transition is not yet occuring in the WWTP sector. Nevertheless, the WWTP replacement task demands governance choices that go beyond optimisation. This study provides an analytical understanding of the current WWTP challenge and through cross-sector lessons practical guidance is provided to steer future WWTP renewal projects in the Netherlands. ...
The case studies reveal that while external pressures create a clear need for action, stakeholders lack a shared understanding of the required change. The study identified four governance barriers within WWTP projects: no consensus on problem ownership, different sense of urgency, uncertainty regarding cost allocation and distributed leadership that in one case result in a situation of inertia. Comparing these findings with grid congestion, it demonstrates that similar governance bottlenecks have occurred. However, grid congestion has become more visible because it directly effects societal developments like housing, forcing a more coordinated response.
The study translates insights from grid congestion into actionable lessons for the wastewater sector. Single-loop lessons, which adjust existing routines, include formalising cooperation and escalation arrangements, ensuring continuity through boundary spanners, avoid unscalable pilots, involve municipalities earlier in the process and learn from organisations with similar experiences. Double-loop lessons, which require reframing underlying assumptions, involve formulate a clear and shared task, break the task down into sub-tasks and roles, make those who face impacts co-owners of the problem, create urgency connecting the problem directly to concrete societal impacts.
One of the main findings is that a full transition is not yet occuring in the WWTP sector. Nevertheless, the WWTP replacement task demands governance choices that go beyond optimisation. This study provides an analytical understanding of the current WWTP challenge and through cross-sector lessons practical guidance is provided to steer future WWTP renewal projects in the Netherlands. ...
The expansion and renovation of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in the Netherlands, particularly in the densely populated Randstad region, is becoming increasingly urgent. This urgency is driven by a combination of ageing infrastructure, stricter EU effluent standards, population growth and spatial scarcity. Rather than viewing this as a technical replacement challenge, this study explores WWTP renewal as a complex governance issue where technological, spatial, institutional and financial factors cross. This thesis examines to what extent governance lessons can be drawn from the Dutch energy transition, with a focus on grid congestion, to guide the emerging WWTP challenge. The study employs a qualitative methodology, combining a semi-systematic literature review, two case studies of ongoing WWTP projects in the Randstad and expert interviews from the energy domain. The theoretical analysis consists of a governance framework and the multi-level perspective to evaluate the current state of the WWTP system, complemented by literature on learning loops to categorise cross-sector lessons.
The case studies reveal that while external pressures create a clear need for action, stakeholders lack a shared understanding of the required change. The study identified four governance barriers within WWTP projects: no consensus on problem ownership, different sense of urgency, uncertainty regarding cost allocation and distributed leadership that in one case result in a situation of inertia. Comparing these findings with grid congestion, it demonstrates that similar governance bottlenecks have occurred. However, grid congestion has become more visible because it directly effects societal developments like housing, forcing a more coordinated response.
The study translates insights from grid congestion into actionable lessons for the wastewater sector. Single-loop lessons, which adjust existing routines, include formalising cooperation and escalation arrangements, ensuring continuity through boundary spanners, avoid unscalable pilots, involve municipalities earlier in the process and learn from organisations with similar experiences. Double-loop lessons, which require reframing underlying assumptions, involve formulate a clear and shared task, break the task down into sub-tasks and roles, make those who face impacts co-owners of the problem, create urgency connecting the problem directly to concrete societal impacts.
One of the main findings is that a full transition is not yet occuring in the WWTP sector. Nevertheless, the WWTP replacement task demands governance choices that go beyond optimisation. This study provides an analytical understanding of the current WWTP challenge and through cross-sector lessons practical guidance is provided to steer future WWTP renewal projects in the Netherlands.
The case studies reveal that while external pressures create a clear need for action, stakeholders lack a shared understanding of the required change. The study identified four governance barriers within WWTP projects: no consensus on problem ownership, different sense of urgency, uncertainty regarding cost allocation and distributed leadership that in one case result in a situation of inertia. Comparing these findings with grid congestion, it demonstrates that similar governance bottlenecks have occurred. However, grid congestion has become more visible because it directly effects societal developments like housing, forcing a more coordinated response.
The study translates insights from grid congestion into actionable lessons for the wastewater sector. Single-loop lessons, which adjust existing routines, include formalising cooperation and escalation arrangements, ensuring continuity through boundary spanners, avoid unscalable pilots, involve municipalities earlier in the process and learn from organisations with similar experiences. Double-loop lessons, which require reframing underlying assumptions, involve formulate a clear and shared task, break the task down into sub-tasks and roles, make those who face impacts co-owners of the problem, create urgency connecting the problem directly to concrete societal impacts.
One of the main findings is that a full transition is not yet occuring in the WWTP sector. Nevertheless, the WWTP replacement task demands governance choices that go beyond optimisation. This study provides an analytical understanding of the current WWTP challenge and through cross-sector lessons practical guidance is provided to steer future WWTP renewal projects in the Netherlands.
Material-Driven Circular Timber Construction
Stock-Constrained Space Frame Design via Evolution Strategy Geometry Optimisation and MILP Assignment
The transition to circular construction requires structural components to be designed around available reclaimed inventory rather than specified from fresh supply. For timber, this creates a computational problem: candidate geometries must be continuously re-evaluated against a finite, heterogeneous stock of salvaged elements whose dimensions and structural properties vary unpredictably. Conventional parametric workflows, calibrated for homogeneous virgin material, cannot navigate this constraint space.
This thesis develops a surrogate-assisted evolutionary design workflow in which four steps execute at every generation: a Covariance Matrix Adaptation Evolution Strategy (CMA-ES) proposes candidate geometries for a 5×3 space frame; a cost matrix encodes the Life Cycle Assessment cost, embodied carbon, transport, and reprocessing, of assigning each stock element to each structural slot; Mixed-Integer Linear Programming (MILP) resolves the globally optimal assignment against this matrix; and a Graph Neural Network (GNN) surrogate replaces Finite Element Analysis, providing per-member feasibility feedback that steers the search toward geometries compatible with both inventory and structural requirements.
The GNN was trained on 20,000 Karamba3D-labelled truss configurations, achieving a ROC-AUC of 0.863 (θ=0.30, recall 86.6%). Across 21 independent runs totaling 157,500 fitness evaluations, all MILP solves resolved to optimality and no CMA-ES run terminated prematurely.
Stock-aware co-optimization achieves a 75% volume-weighted reclaimed-timber reuse fraction against 30% for a topology-equivalent static baseline, confirming that geometry adaptation achieves what post-hoc material matching cannot. The residential donor condition reduces total LCA cost by 33% relative to a new-material baseline; a larger commercial inventory increases reuse fraction further, with inventory size directly bounding the optimiser’s solution space.
A consistent trade-off emerges: maximising reuse fraction does not automatically minimise embodied carbon. Geometry adaptation unlocks a larger share of reclaimed volume by opening slots for heavier sections, but those sections carry proportionally higher transport and reprocessing burdens, so the reclaimed-material cost rises faster than the new-material cost falls. The direction of this trade-off is further conditioned by the LCA accounting boundary: under an A1–A3 scope, factory off-cut from new stock is not attributed to the project, and accounting for it reverses the cost ranking. The environmental benefit of reuse is therefore governed by the volume distribution of the donor stock across material streams and by the system boundary applied, rather than by reuse fraction alone. This is a constraint the pipeline surfaces explicitly to the designer, alongside the optimised geometry and bill of materials.
...
This thesis develops a surrogate-assisted evolutionary design workflow in which four steps execute at every generation: a Covariance Matrix Adaptation Evolution Strategy (CMA-ES) proposes candidate geometries for a 5×3 space frame; a cost matrix encodes the Life Cycle Assessment cost, embodied carbon, transport, and reprocessing, of assigning each stock element to each structural slot; Mixed-Integer Linear Programming (MILP) resolves the globally optimal assignment against this matrix; and a Graph Neural Network (GNN) surrogate replaces Finite Element Analysis, providing per-member feasibility feedback that steers the search toward geometries compatible with both inventory and structural requirements.
The GNN was trained on 20,000 Karamba3D-labelled truss configurations, achieving a ROC-AUC of 0.863 (θ=0.30, recall 86.6%). Across 21 independent runs totaling 157,500 fitness evaluations, all MILP solves resolved to optimality and no CMA-ES run terminated prematurely.
Stock-aware co-optimization achieves a 75% volume-weighted reclaimed-timber reuse fraction against 30% for a topology-equivalent static baseline, confirming that geometry adaptation achieves what post-hoc material matching cannot. The residential donor condition reduces total LCA cost by 33% relative to a new-material baseline; a larger commercial inventory increases reuse fraction further, with inventory size directly bounding the optimiser’s solution space.
A consistent trade-off emerges: maximising reuse fraction does not automatically minimise embodied carbon. Geometry adaptation unlocks a larger share of reclaimed volume by opening slots for heavier sections, but those sections carry proportionally higher transport and reprocessing burdens, so the reclaimed-material cost rises faster than the new-material cost falls. The direction of this trade-off is further conditioned by the LCA accounting boundary: under an A1–A3 scope, factory off-cut from new stock is not attributed to the project, and accounting for it reverses the cost ranking. The environmental benefit of reuse is therefore governed by the volume distribution of the donor stock across material streams and by the system boundary applied, rather than by reuse fraction alone. This is a constraint the pipeline surfaces explicitly to the designer, alongside the optimised geometry and bill of materials.
...
The transition to circular construction requires structural components to be designed around available reclaimed inventory rather than specified from fresh supply. For timber, this creates a computational problem: candidate geometries must be continuously re-evaluated against a finite, heterogeneous stock of salvaged elements whose dimensions and structural properties vary unpredictably. Conventional parametric workflows, calibrated for homogeneous virgin material, cannot navigate this constraint space.
This thesis develops a surrogate-assisted evolutionary design workflow in which four steps execute at every generation: a Covariance Matrix Adaptation Evolution Strategy (CMA-ES) proposes candidate geometries for a 5×3 space frame; a cost matrix encodes the Life Cycle Assessment cost, embodied carbon, transport, and reprocessing, of assigning each stock element to each structural slot; Mixed-Integer Linear Programming (MILP) resolves the globally optimal assignment against this matrix; and a Graph Neural Network (GNN) surrogate replaces Finite Element Analysis, providing per-member feasibility feedback that steers the search toward geometries compatible with both inventory and structural requirements.
The GNN was trained on 20,000 Karamba3D-labelled truss configurations, achieving a ROC-AUC of 0.863 (θ=0.30, recall 86.6%). Across 21 independent runs totaling 157,500 fitness evaluations, all MILP solves resolved to optimality and no CMA-ES run terminated prematurely.
Stock-aware co-optimization achieves a 75% volume-weighted reclaimed-timber reuse fraction against 30% for a topology-equivalent static baseline, confirming that geometry adaptation achieves what post-hoc material matching cannot. The residential donor condition reduces total LCA cost by 33% relative to a new-material baseline; a larger commercial inventory increases reuse fraction further, with inventory size directly bounding the optimiser’s solution space.
A consistent trade-off emerges: maximising reuse fraction does not automatically minimise embodied carbon. Geometry adaptation unlocks a larger share of reclaimed volume by opening slots for heavier sections, but those sections carry proportionally higher transport and reprocessing burdens, so the reclaimed-material cost rises faster than the new-material cost falls. The direction of this trade-off is further conditioned by the LCA accounting boundary: under an A1–A3 scope, factory off-cut from new stock is not attributed to the project, and accounting for it reverses the cost ranking. The environmental benefit of reuse is therefore governed by the volume distribution of the donor stock across material streams and by the system boundary applied, rather than by reuse fraction alone. This is a constraint the pipeline surfaces explicitly to the designer, alongside the optimised geometry and bill of materials.
This thesis develops a surrogate-assisted evolutionary design workflow in which four steps execute at every generation: a Covariance Matrix Adaptation Evolution Strategy (CMA-ES) proposes candidate geometries for a 5×3 space frame; a cost matrix encodes the Life Cycle Assessment cost, embodied carbon, transport, and reprocessing, of assigning each stock element to each structural slot; Mixed-Integer Linear Programming (MILP) resolves the globally optimal assignment against this matrix; and a Graph Neural Network (GNN) surrogate replaces Finite Element Analysis, providing per-member feasibility feedback that steers the search toward geometries compatible with both inventory and structural requirements.
The GNN was trained on 20,000 Karamba3D-labelled truss configurations, achieving a ROC-AUC of 0.863 (θ=0.30, recall 86.6%). Across 21 independent runs totaling 157,500 fitness evaluations, all MILP solves resolved to optimality and no CMA-ES run terminated prematurely.
Stock-aware co-optimization achieves a 75% volume-weighted reclaimed-timber reuse fraction against 30% for a topology-equivalent static baseline, confirming that geometry adaptation achieves what post-hoc material matching cannot. The residential donor condition reduces total LCA cost by 33% relative to a new-material baseline; a larger commercial inventory increases reuse fraction further, with inventory size directly bounding the optimiser’s solution space.
A consistent trade-off emerges: maximising reuse fraction does not automatically minimise embodied carbon. Geometry adaptation unlocks a larger share of reclaimed volume by opening slots for heavier sections, but those sections carry proportionally higher transport and reprocessing burdens, so the reclaimed-material cost rises faster than the new-material cost falls. The direction of this trade-off is further conditioned by the LCA accounting boundary: under an A1–A3 scope, factory off-cut from new stock is not attributed to the project, and accounting for it reverses the cost ranking. The environmental benefit of reuse is therefore governed by the volume distribution of the donor stock across material streams and by the system boundary applied, rather than by reuse fraction alone. This is a constraint the pipeline surfaces explicitly to the designer, alongside the optimised geometry and bill of materials.
XMAHAKAM
Reviving the Extracted Landscape of East Kalimantan, Indonesia
This thesis investigates how landscape architecture can operate within territories shaped by long-term extraction, where hydrological systems, ecological processes, and patterns of inhabitation have become spatially fragmented and environmentally unstable. Developed through the case of Samarinda and the Lower Mahakam Basin in East Kalimantan, Indonesia, the project examines how more than 520 mine lakes and the extensive territorial infrastructures of coal extraction might be reinterpreted not as isolated remnants requiring technical reclamation alone, but as active components of a socio-ecological watershed system.
Through fieldwork, territorial mapping, and research-by-design methodologies, the study shows that the apparently chaotic mosaic of degraded forests, mining pits, agricultural plots, and unstable ridge systems is in fact structurally organized by the geological distribution of coal deposits and consequently the operational logics of extraction. This discovery becomes the foundation of the design proposal. Rather than erasing the territorial mechanisms of extraction, the project partially reappropriates them: excavation, terracing, hydrological manipulation, sediment redistribution, and infrastructural corridors are redirected toward regeneration instead of depletion.
The proposal reorganizes the regional watershed through a system of “hydro-edaphic gradients”, where ridge systems operate as distributed hydrological “sponges” capable of retaining water, sediments, nutrients, and organic matter before gradually redistributing them across the landscape. Through selective terracing, agroforestry retention systems, wetlands, and staged mine-lake remediation, the project establishes interconnected ecological corridors that support reforestation, aquaculture, wet agriculture, biodiversity recovery, and new forms of inhabitation. Mine lakes gradually evolve through distinct stages of chemical containment and stabilization that function as forms of post-extractive ecological succession, progressively becoming one with the surrounding territorial systems.
Beyond ecological recovery alone, the project positions regeneration as a territorial and social process. Agroforestry landscapes are simultaneously productive ecologies and mechanisms of continuous occupation, stewardship, and tenurial reclamation across vulnerable concession landscapes. Extraction off-road routes are reappropriated to draw settlement toward mine and new fishing lakes, productive forests, and remediated lake systems, transforming the logistical infrastructures of extraction into connective frameworks for public life and ecological care.
Rather than proposing a singular technical solution, the thesis frames remediation as a long-term, multi-scalar, and adaptive territorial process. It links upstream hydrological regulation to downstream urban resilience, agricultural productivity, and public occupation, and proposes an alternative model for post-extractive landscapes - one in which ecological recovery, infrastructural reuse, and collective inhabitation become mutually reinforcing components of territorial regeneration. ...
Through fieldwork, territorial mapping, and research-by-design methodologies, the study shows that the apparently chaotic mosaic of degraded forests, mining pits, agricultural plots, and unstable ridge systems is in fact structurally organized by the geological distribution of coal deposits and consequently the operational logics of extraction. This discovery becomes the foundation of the design proposal. Rather than erasing the territorial mechanisms of extraction, the project partially reappropriates them: excavation, terracing, hydrological manipulation, sediment redistribution, and infrastructural corridors are redirected toward regeneration instead of depletion.
The proposal reorganizes the regional watershed through a system of “hydro-edaphic gradients”, where ridge systems operate as distributed hydrological “sponges” capable of retaining water, sediments, nutrients, and organic matter before gradually redistributing them across the landscape. Through selective terracing, agroforestry retention systems, wetlands, and staged mine-lake remediation, the project establishes interconnected ecological corridors that support reforestation, aquaculture, wet agriculture, biodiversity recovery, and new forms of inhabitation. Mine lakes gradually evolve through distinct stages of chemical containment and stabilization that function as forms of post-extractive ecological succession, progressively becoming one with the surrounding territorial systems.
Beyond ecological recovery alone, the project positions regeneration as a territorial and social process. Agroforestry landscapes are simultaneously productive ecologies and mechanisms of continuous occupation, stewardship, and tenurial reclamation across vulnerable concession landscapes. Extraction off-road routes are reappropriated to draw settlement toward mine and new fishing lakes, productive forests, and remediated lake systems, transforming the logistical infrastructures of extraction into connective frameworks for public life and ecological care.
Rather than proposing a singular technical solution, the thesis frames remediation as a long-term, multi-scalar, and adaptive territorial process. It links upstream hydrological regulation to downstream urban resilience, agricultural productivity, and public occupation, and proposes an alternative model for post-extractive landscapes - one in which ecological recovery, infrastructural reuse, and collective inhabitation become mutually reinforcing components of territorial regeneration. ...
This thesis investigates how landscape architecture can operate within territories shaped by long-term extraction, where hydrological systems, ecological processes, and patterns of inhabitation have become spatially fragmented and environmentally unstable. Developed through the case of Samarinda and the Lower Mahakam Basin in East Kalimantan, Indonesia, the project examines how more than 520 mine lakes and the extensive territorial infrastructures of coal extraction might be reinterpreted not as isolated remnants requiring technical reclamation alone, but as active components of a socio-ecological watershed system.
Through fieldwork, territorial mapping, and research-by-design methodologies, the study shows that the apparently chaotic mosaic of degraded forests, mining pits, agricultural plots, and unstable ridge systems is in fact structurally organized by the geological distribution of coal deposits and consequently the operational logics of extraction. This discovery becomes the foundation of the design proposal. Rather than erasing the territorial mechanisms of extraction, the project partially reappropriates them: excavation, terracing, hydrological manipulation, sediment redistribution, and infrastructural corridors are redirected toward regeneration instead of depletion.
The proposal reorganizes the regional watershed through a system of “hydro-edaphic gradients”, where ridge systems operate as distributed hydrological “sponges” capable of retaining water, sediments, nutrients, and organic matter before gradually redistributing them across the landscape. Through selective terracing, agroforestry retention systems, wetlands, and staged mine-lake remediation, the project establishes interconnected ecological corridors that support reforestation, aquaculture, wet agriculture, biodiversity recovery, and new forms of inhabitation. Mine lakes gradually evolve through distinct stages of chemical containment and stabilization that function as forms of post-extractive ecological succession, progressively becoming one with the surrounding territorial systems.
Beyond ecological recovery alone, the project positions regeneration as a territorial and social process. Agroforestry landscapes are simultaneously productive ecologies and mechanisms of continuous occupation, stewardship, and tenurial reclamation across vulnerable concession landscapes. Extraction off-road routes are reappropriated to draw settlement toward mine and new fishing lakes, productive forests, and remediated lake systems, transforming the logistical infrastructures of extraction into connective frameworks for public life and ecological care.
Rather than proposing a singular technical solution, the thesis frames remediation as a long-term, multi-scalar, and adaptive territorial process. It links upstream hydrological regulation to downstream urban resilience, agricultural productivity, and public occupation, and proposes an alternative model for post-extractive landscapes - one in which ecological recovery, infrastructural reuse, and collective inhabitation become mutually reinforcing components of territorial regeneration.
Through fieldwork, territorial mapping, and research-by-design methodologies, the study shows that the apparently chaotic mosaic of degraded forests, mining pits, agricultural plots, and unstable ridge systems is in fact structurally organized by the geological distribution of coal deposits and consequently the operational logics of extraction. This discovery becomes the foundation of the design proposal. Rather than erasing the territorial mechanisms of extraction, the project partially reappropriates them: excavation, terracing, hydrological manipulation, sediment redistribution, and infrastructural corridors are redirected toward regeneration instead of depletion.
The proposal reorganizes the regional watershed through a system of “hydro-edaphic gradients”, where ridge systems operate as distributed hydrological “sponges” capable of retaining water, sediments, nutrients, and organic matter before gradually redistributing them across the landscape. Through selective terracing, agroforestry retention systems, wetlands, and staged mine-lake remediation, the project establishes interconnected ecological corridors that support reforestation, aquaculture, wet agriculture, biodiversity recovery, and new forms of inhabitation. Mine lakes gradually evolve through distinct stages of chemical containment and stabilization that function as forms of post-extractive ecological succession, progressively becoming one with the surrounding territorial systems.
Beyond ecological recovery alone, the project positions regeneration as a territorial and social process. Agroforestry landscapes are simultaneously productive ecologies and mechanisms of continuous occupation, stewardship, and tenurial reclamation across vulnerable concession landscapes. Extraction off-road routes are reappropriated to draw settlement toward mine and new fishing lakes, productive forests, and remediated lake systems, transforming the logistical infrastructures of extraction into connective frameworks for public life and ecological care.
Rather than proposing a singular technical solution, the thesis frames remediation as a long-term, multi-scalar, and adaptive territorial process. It links upstream hydrological regulation to downstream urban resilience, agricultural productivity, and public occupation, and proposes an alternative model for post-extractive landscapes - one in which ecological recovery, infrastructural reuse, and collective inhabitation become mutually reinforcing components of territorial regeneration.
Despite increasing urgency, the preparatory phase of national grid reinforcement in the Netherlands faces persistent alignment challenges across governance levels. These include unclear responsibilities, fragmented planning, and limited data sharing. This research analyses alignment challenges between the national government, provinces, municipalities, and grid operators in the preparatory phase of grid reinforcement. It explores how interactions, roles, and information flows across these actors shape strategic alignment, and identifies concrete alignment issues experienced by public stakeholders. Lastly, the thesis examines how Machine Learning (ML) could support strategic alignment by linking these alignment issues to ML capabilities such as scenario clustering, document summarisation, and communication support. Drawing on qualitative interviews with public stakeholders and structured expert validation, the study offers an exploratory assessment that maps alignment needs to ML opportunities. While ML shows promise, its value depends on institutional readiness, data accessibility, and stakeholder trust.
...
Despite increasing urgency, the preparatory phase of national grid reinforcement in the Netherlands faces persistent alignment challenges across governance levels. These include unclear responsibilities, fragmented planning, and limited data sharing. This research analyses alignment challenges between the national government, provinces, municipalities, and grid operators in the preparatory phase of grid reinforcement. It explores how interactions, roles, and information flows across these actors shape strategic alignment, and identifies concrete alignment issues experienced by public stakeholders. Lastly, the thesis examines how Machine Learning (ML) could support strategic alignment by linking these alignment issues to ML capabilities such as scenario clustering, document summarisation, and communication support. Drawing on qualitative interviews with public stakeholders and structured expert validation, the study offers an exploratory assessment that maps alignment needs to ML opportunities. While ML shows promise, its value depends on institutional readiness, data accessibility, and stakeholder trust.
Urban Gardens of the Future: Wadi Hawa
Imagining the urban gardening community of the future in Az Zubayr from an equitable perspective
Iraq is undergoing a transformative period following decades of conflict, with major infrastructure projects intended to drive economic revival. Central among these is the Grand Faw Port in the southern Governorate of Basra. This port is intended to become the largest and most advanced port in the world, along with a connecting Development Road linking Europe and Asia. This research investigates the socio-environmental consequences of such development, focusing on the interconnected cities of Al-Faw (site of the new port), Umm Qasr (home to the older port), and Az Zubayr (a rapidly growing urban centre). Using a mixed anticipatory scenario approach – involving scenario planning, backcasting, and visioning – the study examines how the rise of this port project and other major infrastructural projects could displace local communities and marginalize older infrastructure. This study particularly pays attention to the local populations dependent on agriculture. The understanding of both the infrastructural violence and the environmental degradation of the area is crucial to this research. Drawing on ecofeminist theory, commoning and design-based methods, the research envisions an inclusive urban gardening community in Az Zubayr that addresses the needs of displaced and local communities while supporting ecological resilience.
...
Iraq is undergoing a transformative period following decades of conflict, with major infrastructure projects intended to drive economic revival. Central among these is the Grand Faw Port in the southern Governorate of Basra. This port is intended to become the largest and most advanced port in the world, along with a connecting Development Road linking Europe and Asia. This research investigates the socio-environmental consequences of such development, focusing on the interconnected cities of Al-Faw (site of the new port), Umm Qasr (home to the older port), and Az Zubayr (a rapidly growing urban centre). Using a mixed anticipatory scenario approach – involving scenario planning, backcasting, and visioning – the study examines how the rise of this port project and other major infrastructural projects could displace local communities and marginalize older infrastructure. This study particularly pays attention to the local populations dependent on agriculture. The understanding of both the infrastructural violence and the environmental degradation of the area is crucial to this research. Drawing on ecofeminist theory, commoning and design-based methods, the research envisions an inclusive urban gardening community in Az Zubayr that addresses the needs of displaced and local communities while supporting ecological resilience.
Lines of Power
The path of al Boraq through power, politics and progress
This study examines how large-scale infrastructure projects, with a focus on the proposed tunnel between Spain and Morocco, influence the urban landscape and socio-spatial dynamics in Tangier, Morocco. The study, which is inspired by personal experiences and based on interdisciplinary theories, investigates how infrastructure can reinforce or reduce existing inequalities. The research uses a variety of methods to find the answers to the central question: how can infrastructure such as the tunnel be designed and implemented to promote inclusive development? These methods include an integrated methodology, archival research, fieldwork, mapping, case studies and policy analysis.
The theoretical framework is based on dromology, technopolitics, viapolitics, and infrastructural boundaries. It shows that infrastructure is not a neutral connection but a technopolitical force that regulates access, mobility, and power. Historical analysis shows how Tangier's development has long prioritized external connectivity over internal equality. This has led to spatial fragmentation. Comparative case studies of megaprojects such as the Channel Tunnel and the Øresund Bridge offer lessons on centralisation, migration pressure and social displacement.
The main findings indicate that improved connectivity stimulates urbanization and economic growth. However, this often happens at the expense of local inclusion. Inclusive planning is vital to prevent the tunnel from exacerbating the socioeconomic disparities within Tangier and between continents. The study's final conclusion offers practical design and policy recommendations for promoting equity, accessibility and sustainability in the region's future infrastructure development. ...
The theoretical framework is based on dromology, technopolitics, viapolitics, and infrastructural boundaries. It shows that infrastructure is not a neutral connection but a technopolitical force that regulates access, mobility, and power. Historical analysis shows how Tangier's development has long prioritized external connectivity over internal equality. This has led to spatial fragmentation. Comparative case studies of megaprojects such as the Channel Tunnel and the Øresund Bridge offer lessons on centralisation, migration pressure and social displacement.
The main findings indicate that improved connectivity stimulates urbanization and economic growth. However, this often happens at the expense of local inclusion. Inclusive planning is vital to prevent the tunnel from exacerbating the socioeconomic disparities within Tangier and between continents. The study's final conclusion offers practical design and policy recommendations for promoting equity, accessibility and sustainability in the region's future infrastructure development. ...
This study examines how large-scale infrastructure projects, with a focus on the proposed tunnel between Spain and Morocco, influence the urban landscape and socio-spatial dynamics in Tangier, Morocco. The study, which is inspired by personal experiences and based on interdisciplinary theories, investigates how infrastructure can reinforce or reduce existing inequalities. The research uses a variety of methods to find the answers to the central question: how can infrastructure such as the tunnel be designed and implemented to promote inclusive development? These methods include an integrated methodology, archival research, fieldwork, mapping, case studies and policy analysis.
The theoretical framework is based on dromology, technopolitics, viapolitics, and infrastructural boundaries. It shows that infrastructure is not a neutral connection but a technopolitical force that regulates access, mobility, and power. Historical analysis shows how Tangier's development has long prioritized external connectivity over internal equality. This has led to spatial fragmentation. Comparative case studies of megaprojects such as the Channel Tunnel and the Øresund Bridge offer lessons on centralisation, migration pressure and social displacement.
The main findings indicate that improved connectivity stimulates urbanization and economic growth. However, this often happens at the expense of local inclusion. Inclusive planning is vital to prevent the tunnel from exacerbating the socioeconomic disparities within Tangier and between continents. The study's final conclusion offers practical design and policy recommendations for promoting equity, accessibility and sustainability in the region's future infrastructure development.
The theoretical framework is based on dromology, technopolitics, viapolitics, and infrastructural boundaries. It shows that infrastructure is not a neutral connection but a technopolitical force that regulates access, mobility, and power. Historical analysis shows how Tangier's development has long prioritized external connectivity over internal equality. This has led to spatial fragmentation. Comparative case studies of megaprojects such as the Channel Tunnel and the Øresund Bridge offer lessons on centralisation, migration pressure and social displacement.
The main findings indicate that improved connectivity stimulates urbanization and economic growth. However, this often happens at the expense of local inclusion. Inclusive planning is vital to prevent the tunnel from exacerbating the socioeconomic disparities within Tangier and between continents. The study's final conclusion offers practical design and policy recommendations for promoting equity, accessibility and sustainability in the region's future infrastructure development.
When considering the future, an inherent debate is whether the future ‘overcomes us’ or is steerable. This is reflected in how the future is approached in both postmodern and positivist theory, respectively, according to Gong (2024). However, considering the paradox of observing systems as put forward by Luhmann (1995), one always has influence over the future. Therefore, the future must be approached as something that both ‘overcomes us’ as well as something steerable. It is at this point where the theory of critical realism finds the middle ground between postmodern and positivist theory.
Engaging with the future within the context of our field, management in the built environment, specifically corporate real estate (CRE) portfolio strategies, an often used tool by portfolio managers is scenario planning. Scenario planning for use in strategies can be split up into two schools of thought: explorative scenario planning (XSP), which is mainly used by the private sector and aligns with postmodern theory on futures that ‘overcome us’ on the one hand, and normative scenario planning (NSP) on the other, which is mostly used by the public sector and builds on the positivist theory that the future is steerable. Meanwhile, there appears to be no method of scenario planning that aligns with critical realist theory. Combining XSP and NSP to form a Combined Scenario Planning (CSP) method could possibly fill this gap. To this end, this thesis aims to answer the following question: Can explorative scenario planning and normative scenario planning be combined in a single method and what could be its impact on corporate real estate portfolio strategies?
Through in-depth interviews and literature study, it has been found that while these methodologies differed, there was no upfront hindrance in combining XSP and NSP. Combined with how scenario planning can be used in formulating CRE portfolio strategies, it was possible to develop a new CSP method through of research by design. This CSP method proposes an 8-step protocol in which normative brainstorming delivers a list of actions, which are tested against either chosen or developed explorative scenarios. When an expert panel of CRE portfolio managers evaluated this method on how this could perform for strategizing, it was found that while the CSP method shows promise, particularly as a strategic support tool, its practical implementation and ease of use need refinement. Real-world testing and further development are essential to address the concerns raised by the expert panel.
...
Engaging with the future within the context of our field, management in the built environment, specifically corporate real estate (CRE) portfolio strategies, an often used tool by portfolio managers is scenario planning. Scenario planning for use in strategies can be split up into two schools of thought: explorative scenario planning (XSP), which is mainly used by the private sector and aligns with postmodern theory on futures that ‘overcome us’ on the one hand, and normative scenario planning (NSP) on the other, which is mostly used by the public sector and builds on the positivist theory that the future is steerable. Meanwhile, there appears to be no method of scenario planning that aligns with critical realist theory. Combining XSP and NSP to form a Combined Scenario Planning (CSP) method could possibly fill this gap. To this end, this thesis aims to answer the following question: Can explorative scenario planning and normative scenario planning be combined in a single method and what could be its impact on corporate real estate portfolio strategies?
Through in-depth interviews and literature study, it has been found that while these methodologies differed, there was no upfront hindrance in combining XSP and NSP. Combined with how scenario planning can be used in formulating CRE portfolio strategies, it was possible to develop a new CSP method through of research by design. This CSP method proposes an 8-step protocol in which normative brainstorming delivers a list of actions, which are tested against either chosen or developed explorative scenarios. When an expert panel of CRE portfolio managers evaluated this method on how this could perform for strategizing, it was found that while the CSP method shows promise, particularly as a strategic support tool, its practical implementation and ease of use need refinement. Real-world testing and further development are essential to address the concerns raised by the expert panel.
...
When considering the future, an inherent debate is whether the future ‘overcomes us’ or is steerable. This is reflected in how the future is approached in both postmodern and positivist theory, respectively, according to Gong (2024). However, considering the paradox of observing systems as put forward by Luhmann (1995), one always has influence over the future. Therefore, the future must be approached as something that both ‘overcomes us’ as well as something steerable. It is at this point where the theory of critical realism finds the middle ground between postmodern and positivist theory.
Engaging with the future within the context of our field, management in the built environment, specifically corporate real estate (CRE) portfolio strategies, an often used tool by portfolio managers is scenario planning. Scenario planning for use in strategies can be split up into two schools of thought: explorative scenario planning (XSP), which is mainly used by the private sector and aligns with postmodern theory on futures that ‘overcome us’ on the one hand, and normative scenario planning (NSP) on the other, which is mostly used by the public sector and builds on the positivist theory that the future is steerable. Meanwhile, there appears to be no method of scenario planning that aligns with critical realist theory. Combining XSP and NSP to form a Combined Scenario Planning (CSP) method could possibly fill this gap. To this end, this thesis aims to answer the following question: Can explorative scenario planning and normative scenario planning be combined in a single method and what could be its impact on corporate real estate portfolio strategies?
Through in-depth interviews and literature study, it has been found that while these methodologies differed, there was no upfront hindrance in combining XSP and NSP. Combined with how scenario planning can be used in formulating CRE portfolio strategies, it was possible to develop a new CSP method through of research by design. This CSP method proposes an 8-step protocol in which normative brainstorming delivers a list of actions, which are tested against either chosen or developed explorative scenarios. When an expert panel of CRE portfolio managers evaluated this method on how this could perform for strategizing, it was found that while the CSP method shows promise, particularly as a strategic support tool, its practical implementation and ease of use need refinement. Real-world testing and further development are essential to address the concerns raised by the expert panel.
Engaging with the future within the context of our field, management in the built environment, specifically corporate real estate (CRE) portfolio strategies, an often used tool by portfolio managers is scenario planning. Scenario planning for use in strategies can be split up into two schools of thought: explorative scenario planning (XSP), which is mainly used by the private sector and aligns with postmodern theory on futures that ‘overcome us’ on the one hand, and normative scenario planning (NSP) on the other, which is mostly used by the public sector and builds on the positivist theory that the future is steerable. Meanwhile, there appears to be no method of scenario planning that aligns with critical realist theory. Combining XSP and NSP to form a Combined Scenario Planning (CSP) method could possibly fill this gap. To this end, this thesis aims to answer the following question: Can explorative scenario planning and normative scenario planning be combined in a single method and what could be its impact on corporate real estate portfolio strategies?
Through in-depth interviews and literature study, it has been found that while these methodologies differed, there was no upfront hindrance in combining XSP and NSP. Combined with how scenario planning can be used in formulating CRE portfolio strategies, it was possible to develop a new CSP method through of research by design. This CSP method proposes an 8-step protocol in which normative brainstorming delivers a list of actions, which are tested against either chosen or developed explorative scenarios. When an expert panel of CRE portfolio managers evaluated this method on how this could perform for strategizing, it was found that while the CSP method shows promise, particularly as a strategic support tool, its practical implementation and ease of use need refinement. Real-world testing and further development are essential to address the concerns raised by the expert panel.
Reimagining industrial heritage
Facilitating tomorrow's manufacturing industry towards a circular city
For many years, the concept of adaptive reuse of buildings has been researched. A focus on heritage and specifically the implementation of circular economy frameworks is however relatively new. Adaptive reuse of heritage is often concerned a circular strategy for its material reuse. However, there are many more dimensions to circularity in adaptive reuse, ranging from socio-economic values in urban environments to buildings facilitating and stimulating the circular economy by their new functions. Urban manufacturing is one of the functions that can benefit of the added values of industrial heritage. In return, urban manufacturing can provide several values to its urban context and contribute to development of the circular city due to ongoing developments in this sector. The next generation of manufacturers can be well integrated in urban areas contribute to realising circular ambitions, but several principles should be applied to realise this and create balanced urban development. To date, integration of circular economy and adaptive reuse of heritage frameworks is limited and fragmented. An overarching conceptual framework for adaptive reuse in a multidimensional way is missing, and current research often avoids practical solutions and guidelines that can be used by developers and planners. This research aims to provide these frameworks to combine the potentials and values of both heritage and the urban manufacturing industry through adaptive reuse. The main research question: ‘How can industrial heritage facilitate the developing urban manufacturing industry?’ is answered by executing a literature review, interviews, a questionnaire, studying different cases of heritage adaptive reuse, and providing a new framework for assessment and development of industrial heritage for facilitating the urban manufacturing industry.
...
For many years, the concept of adaptive reuse of buildings has been researched. A focus on heritage and specifically the implementation of circular economy frameworks is however relatively new. Adaptive reuse of heritage is often concerned a circular strategy for its material reuse. However, there are many more dimensions to circularity in adaptive reuse, ranging from socio-economic values in urban environments to buildings facilitating and stimulating the circular economy by their new functions. Urban manufacturing is one of the functions that can benefit of the added values of industrial heritage. In return, urban manufacturing can provide several values to its urban context and contribute to development of the circular city due to ongoing developments in this sector. The next generation of manufacturers can be well integrated in urban areas contribute to realising circular ambitions, but several principles should be applied to realise this and create balanced urban development. To date, integration of circular economy and adaptive reuse of heritage frameworks is limited and fragmented. An overarching conceptual framework for adaptive reuse in a multidimensional way is missing, and current research often avoids practical solutions and guidelines that can be used by developers and planners. This research aims to provide these frameworks to combine the potentials and values of both heritage and the urban manufacturing industry through adaptive reuse. The main research question: ‘How can industrial heritage facilitate the developing urban manufacturing industry?’ is answered by executing a literature review, interviews, a questionnaire, studying different cases of heritage adaptive reuse, and providing a new framework for assessment and development of industrial heritage for facilitating the urban manufacturing industry.
The climate crisis and resource scarcity have compelled industries to adopt new environmental and circular standards. The Netherlands has set a goal of achieving a fully circular economy by 2050, with a 50% reduction in the use of primary raw materials by 2030. In the circular built environment, circularity strategies like reuse are being implemented to reduce waste and carbon emissions. However, only about 1% of the building products that can be reused in The Netherlands are currently being reused for another lifecycle. This thesis aims to investigate the relationship between the technical aspects of reused building products and their reuse potential, which has received limited research attention thus far. To address this gap, a theoretical framework for assessing reuse potential is built through a literature review. A sampling study of over 30 building products is then conducted to evaluate their adaptability potential and disassembly level, generating a systematic overview of the technical aspects that influence reuse potential. The results demonstrate that refitability, adaptability, scalability and disassembly level are the most important aspects in determining the reuse potential for posterior lifecycles. By providing a deeper understanding of the technical aspects influencing the reuse potential of building products, this thesis aims to contribute to the development of circularity strategies in the built environment.
...
The climate crisis and resource scarcity have compelled industries to adopt new environmental and circular standards. The Netherlands has set a goal of achieving a fully circular economy by 2050, with a 50% reduction in the use of primary raw materials by 2030. In the circular built environment, circularity strategies like reuse are being implemented to reduce waste and carbon emissions. However, only about 1% of the building products that can be reused in The Netherlands are currently being reused for another lifecycle. This thesis aims to investigate the relationship between the technical aspects of reused building products and their reuse potential, which has received limited research attention thus far. To address this gap, a theoretical framework for assessing reuse potential is built through a literature review. A sampling study of over 30 building products is then conducted to evaluate their adaptability potential and disassembly level, generating a systematic overview of the technical aspects that influence reuse potential. The results demonstrate that refitability, adaptability, scalability and disassembly level are the most important aspects in determining the reuse potential for posterior lifecycles. By providing a deeper understanding of the technical aspects influencing the reuse potential of building products, this thesis aims to contribute to the development of circularity strategies in the built environment.
The global shift toward a circular economy, vital for tackling climate change and resource security, necessitates the integration of circular principles in the construction sector. Urban planning, significant in shaping the built environment, offers an opportunity for implementing these principles comprehensively. However, limited implementation in area development projects is observed due to ambiguity in design themes, timing of strategy definition, and lack of coordination in urban planning. This research addresses these gaps, focusing on integrating circularity in different urban area development phases. The methodology employed a qualitative case-based design study involving a literature review and comparative case study. It identified eleven crucial circular design themes through a systematic literature review. Furthermore barriers, accelerators, and lock-in moments in area development processes were identified through the comparative case stud. These findings have been combined, resulting in the development of eleven phase-wise guidelines for circular area development processes. These guidelines, validated through stakeholder input, encompass change management elements and recommendations for overcoming barriers, thereby optimizing the incorporation of circular design strategies. The guidelines, usable in all process stages, strike a balance between clarity and flexibility, enhancing stakeholder engagement and decision-making. However, further research is recommended to generalize findings, explore the practical application of evaluation sessions, and address technological barriers hindering the transition to a circular economy.
...
The global shift toward a circular economy, vital for tackling climate change and resource security, necessitates the integration of circular principles in the construction sector. Urban planning, significant in shaping the built environment, offers an opportunity for implementing these principles comprehensively. However, limited implementation in area development projects is observed due to ambiguity in design themes, timing of strategy definition, and lack of coordination in urban planning. This research addresses these gaps, focusing on integrating circularity in different urban area development phases. The methodology employed a qualitative case-based design study involving a literature review and comparative case study. It identified eleven crucial circular design themes through a systematic literature review. Furthermore barriers, accelerators, and lock-in moments in area development processes were identified through the comparative case stud. These findings have been combined, resulting in the development of eleven phase-wise guidelines for circular area development processes. These guidelines, validated through stakeholder input, encompass change management elements and recommendations for overcoming barriers, thereby optimizing the incorporation of circular design strategies. The guidelines, usable in all process stages, strike a balance between clarity and flexibility, enhancing stakeholder engagement and decision-making. However, further research is recommended to generalize findings, explore the practical application of evaluation sessions, and address technological barriers hindering the transition to a circular economy.
Metaverse | Transitioning (To) Future Cities
Transdisciplinary platforms as instruments to democratise technology for participatory use in building back neglected urban voids of Riga
We are at the beginning of the most significant societal change since the internet. We are transitioning from a 2-dimensional browser-based interaction to immersive 3-dimensional experiences. The metaverse is not a place or a destination but a state where technology and ecosystem are symbiotic.
Digital Twins, interactive toolkits, tokenization and urban platfomization, are the bedrock of the future cities and the metaverse. Today, we see the metaverse as cartoonish meeting rooms, yet on a granular level, the metaverse systems focus on user-centric governance and new decentralized economic models. De Filippi and Wright (2018) have described this as "a structural shift of power from legal rules and regulations administered by government authorities to code-based rules and protocols governed by decentralized blockchain-based networks." ... deployed to citizens.
With a nickname as Europe's Capital of vacant buildings, Riga suffers from excessive urban negligence and diaspora. Such a location provides a unique opportunity in the tokenization economy, where each urban void can become an asset (an NFT) or social crypto coin that individuals can purchase or 'invest' in, exchanging money for equity (fiat to crypto). By buying into the urban void metaverse, individuals establish a digital identity and can become active citizens of the duality. With a token, one automatically becomes part of the DAO protocols and proposes alternative solutions to the urban void of Riga through its city dashboard.
The architectural project acts as a jugendstil-inspired expression of art, history and local struggles. As part of the Next Generation EU, the project proposes a Metaverse Research Academy, where locals can play, imagine and shape their neighbourhood through serendipitous learning. The project can be viewed as a public space where the architecture seamlessly adapts the context into an icon to attract local and international talent while transforming an agglomerate of urban voids into a social, age-inclusive, permeable pocket.
Please do not share or reproduce without the written permission of Rihards Dzelme. ...
Digital Twins, interactive toolkits, tokenization and urban platfomization, are the bedrock of the future cities and the metaverse. Today, we see the metaverse as cartoonish meeting rooms, yet on a granular level, the metaverse systems focus on user-centric governance and new decentralized economic models. De Filippi and Wright (2018) have described this as "a structural shift of power from legal rules and regulations administered by government authorities to code-based rules and protocols governed by decentralized blockchain-based networks." ... deployed to citizens.
With a nickname as Europe's Capital of vacant buildings, Riga suffers from excessive urban negligence and diaspora. Such a location provides a unique opportunity in the tokenization economy, where each urban void can become an asset (an NFT) or social crypto coin that individuals can purchase or 'invest' in, exchanging money for equity (fiat to crypto). By buying into the urban void metaverse, individuals establish a digital identity and can become active citizens of the duality. With a token, one automatically becomes part of the DAO protocols and proposes alternative solutions to the urban void of Riga through its city dashboard.
The architectural project acts as a jugendstil-inspired expression of art, history and local struggles. As part of the Next Generation EU, the project proposes a Metaverse Research Academy, where locals can play, imagine and shape their neighbourhood through serendipitous learning. The project can be viewed as a public space where the architecture seamlessly adapts the context into an icon to attract local and international talent while transforming an agglomerate of urban voids into a social, age-inclusive, permeable pocket.
Please do not share or reproduce without the written permission of Rihards Dzelme. ...
We are at the beginning of the most significant societal change since the internet. We are transitioning from a 2-dimensional browser-based interaction to immersive 3-dimensional experiences. The metaverse is not a place or a destination but a state where technology and ecosystem are symbiotic.
Digital Twins, interactive toolkits, tokenization and urban platfomization, are the bedrock of the future cities and the metaverse. Today, we see the metaverse as cartoonish meeting rooms, yet on a granular level, the metaverse systems focus on user-centric governance and new decentralized economic models. De Filippi and Wright (2018) have described this as "a structural shift of power from legal rules and regulations administered by government authorities to code-based rules and protocols governed by decentralized blockchain-based networks." ... deployed to citizens.
With a nickname as Europe's Capital of vacant buildings, Riga suffers from excessive urban negligence and diaspora. Such a location provides a unique opportunity in the tokenization economy, where each urban void can become an asset (an NFT) or social crypto coin that individuals can purchase or 'invest' in, exchanging money for equity (fiat to crypto). By buying into the urban void metaverse, individuals establish a digital identity and can become active citizens of the duality. With a token, one automatically becomes part of the DAO protocols and proposes alternative solutions to the urban void of Riga through its city dashboard.
The architectural project acts as a jugendstil-inspired expression of art, history and local struggles. As part of the Next Generation EU, the project proposes a Metaverse Research Academy, where locals can play, imagine and shape their neighbourhood through serendipitous learning. The project can be viewed as a public space where the architecture seamlessly adapts the context into an icon to attract local and international talent while transforming an agglomerate of urban voids into a social, age-inclusive, permeable pocket.
Please do not share or reproduce without the written permission of Rihards Dzelme.
Digital Twins, interactive toolkits, tokenization and urban platfomization, are the bedrock of the future cities and the metaverse. Today, we see the metaverse as cartoonish meeting rooms, yet on a granular level, the metaverse systems focus on user-centric governance and new decentralized economic models. De Filippi and Wright (2018) have described this as "a structural shift of power from legal rules and regulations administered by government authorities to code-based rules and protocols governed by decentralized blockchain-based networks." ... deployed to citizens.
With a nickname as Europe's Capital of vacant buildings, Riga suffers from excessive urban negligence and diaspora. Such a location provides a unique opportunity in the tokenization economy, where each urban void can become an asset (an NFT) or social crypto coin that individuals can purchase or 'invest' in, exchanging money for equity (fiat to crypto). By buying into the urban void metaverse, individuals establish a digital identity and can become active citizens of the duality. With a token, one automatically becomes part of the DAO protocols and proposes alternative solutions to the urban void of Riga through its city dashboard.
The architectural project acts as a jugendstil-inspired expression of art, history and local struggles. As part of the Next Generation EU, the project proposes a Metaverse Research Academy, where locals can play, imagine and shape their neighbourhood through serendipitous learning. The project can be viewed as a public space where the architecture seamlessly adapts the context into an icon to attract local and international talent while transforming an agglomerate of urban voids into a social, age-inclusive, permeable pocket.
Please do not share or reproduce without the written permission of Rihards Dzelme.
Inter-firm networks and glocalization in realizing a circular economy in the construction sector
A case study on the Dutch concrete industry
In recent years, more and more attention has been paid to the wasteful use of raw materials, which leads to major nature and environmental problems. To address these issues, initiatives have been shown by all kinds of stakeholders, in the form of agreements, legislation and action plans, for a transition to a circular economy (CE). This transition is crucial, especially in the construction sector, due to the high level of waste and the use of raw materials. Literature review shows that localization can create local jobs and economic incentives, but also non-economic motives, such as inclusion and engagement. On the other hand, supply chains, business relationships and sales markets have actually been scaled up to a global level in recent decades. Therefore, a shift to a local approach is needed as well as a shift to a supra-national approach to facilitate the CE. Although this may seem paradoxical at first, this process is also known in the literature as 'glocalization'. Much research has been done on CE on multiple scales, however there is insufficient knowledge about the various components addressed by the concept of 'glocalization’, especially on inter-firm networks and how they deal with the paradox of glocalization in realizing a CE in the construction sector. The aim of this research is to shed light on how inter-firm networks, which consist of multiple types of business relationships, deal with shifts that take place in the field of institutional and regulatory arrangements and economic activities both to the supra-national and local scale. The research is done through literature research, which provides qualitative, and a case study on the concrete industry, which also provides qualitative data. The case study was investigated through semi-structured interviews, after which these were analyzed using coding tools. On this basis, the paradoxes of glocalization have been formulated and it has been analyzed how the companies and organizations within the inter-firm networks deal with these paradoxes. Although the research shows several limitations with regard to the data and synthesis, it can be concluded that the inter-firm networks exhibit different attitudes, which can be categorized as proactive, reactive and inert, towards the paradoxes of glocalization. Furthermore, the research shows that different attitudes to the paradoxes of glocalization can drive changes in the inter-firm networks, such as business expansions, new partnerships between companies that have similar activities, and new partnerships between companies that have different activities but are working on one resulting product.
...
In recent years, more and more attention has been paid to the wasteful use of raw materials, which leads to major nature and environmental problems. To address these issues, initiatives have been shown by all kinds of stakeholders, in the form of agreements, legislation and action plans, for a transition to a circular economy (CE). This transition is crucial, especially in the construction sector, due to the high level of waste and the use of raw materials. Literature review shows that localization can create local jobs and economic incentives, but also non-economic motives, such as inclusion and engagement. On the other hand, supply chains, business relationships and sales markets have actually been scaled up to a global level in recent decades. Therefore, a shift to a local approach is needed as well as a shift to a supra-national approach to facilitate the CE. Although this may seem paradoxical at first, this process is also known in the literature as 'glocalization'. Much research has been done on CE on multiple scales, however there is insufficient knowledge about the various components addressed by the concept of 'glocalization’, especially on inter-firm networks and how they deal with the paradox of glocalization in realizing a CE in the construction sector. The aim of this research is to shed light on how inter-firm networks, which consist of multiple types of business relationships, deal with shifts that take place in the field of institutional and regulatory arrangements and economic activities both to the supra-national and local scale. The research is done through literature research, which provides qualitative, and a case study on the concrete industry, which also provides qualitative data. The case study was investigated through semi-structured interviews, after which these were analyzed using coding tools. On this basis, the paradoxes of glocalization have been formulated and it has been analyzed how the companies and organizations within the inter-firm networks deal with these paradoxes. Although the research shows several limitations with regard to the data and synthesis, it can be concluded that the inter-firm networks exhibit different attitudes, which can be categorized as proactive, reactive and inert, towards the paradoxes of glocalization. Furthermore, the research shows that different attitudes to the paradoxes of glocalization can drive changes in the inter-firm networks, such as business expansions, new partnerships between companies that have similar activities, and new partnerships between companies that have different activities but are working on one resulting product.
Urban areas are becoming more densely populated. More than 50% of the global population is already located in them. The Netherlands is among the countries with the highest population density. In 2017, 80% of its population was living in urban areas. It is expected that by 2050 the Netherlands will need between 300’000 and 1.6 million new homes. Construction & demolition (C&D) is characterized as a rsource-intensive industry and among the largest consumer of ntural resources. Urban areas account for 80% of global greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and their infrastructures generate 50% of the total waste produced on earth. Additionally, the increased demand for housing and infrastructure will lead to increased demand for virgin materials and resources, and in turn more waste. From this perspective, the C&D industry will provide a significant contribution to sustainability and will be an important industry for the transition towards a circular economy (CE). The Netherlands has set very ambitious circularity targets for this industry. Specifically, the Government’s Real Estate Agency and Rijkswaterstraat must become fully circular by 2030. Circularity principles address the entire life-cycle of goods and resources, including
waste management practices. The overarching objective is to keep resources within closed loops and at their highest level of utility without losing their technical and economic integrity. As of now, 88% of waste generated yearly by the Dutch C&D industry is currently down-cycled for road backfilling purposes, 1-3% is currently reused or up-cycled for high-value practices and the remaining is incinerated.
The objective of this study is to identify the challenges that are characterizing recovery and reuse practices in the C&D industry in Zuid-Holland and make a preliminary assessment on whether Blockchain (through DLT and Smart contracts technologies) can be a suitable solution for addressing them. The methods
employed for conducting this study blend desk research with qualitative research (in the form of semistructured interviews) and a decision-making framework to assess the use of Blockchain technology.
The results indicate that the materials and construction elements to be considered more interesting concerning reuse and recovery are bricks, steel profiles and window/door frames. The decision-making process driving their reuse and recovery is company-specific and differs significantly across firms. In general, the data required for assessing the feasibility of reuse and recovery for construction elements are the material composition of new and old buildings, supply-and-demand specific information (volume and timing), technical specification and quality-related data as well as market prices. Challenges characterizing reuse and recovery practices are several. First, construction and demolition activities and asset management practices are asynchronous and separated by large time gaps. Material procurement starts significantly earlier than demolition activities and the process needs to be accurate and based on
reliable data. Data management practices are inconsistent and not harmonized among companies. Digital asset management tools (such as BIM), are employed by large companies only and their use on a national scale is neither harmonized nor compulsory. These aspect limit the economic feasibility of reuse and
recovery practices as the accuracy and reliability of data for driving decision-making is poor or nonexisting. Intra-project and intra-firm data sharing are therefore not possible. A Blockchain system which integrates smart contracts and distributed-ledger-technology (DLT) can partly address and tackle these
issues. To address them fully, however, Blockchain technology must be combined with an asset management tool like BIM for making the solution consistent and scalable at an industry level which in turn requires the implementation of national and industry-wide data management protocols and standards that would harmonize the collection, management and distribution of data across the C&D industry. The Netherlands, unlike other EU member states, has, at this point, no government-driven digitalization strategy in place and is rather opting for a market-driven transition. ...
waste management practices. The overarching objective is to keep resources within closed loops and at their highest level of utility without losing their technical and economic integrity. As of now, 88% of waste generated yearly by the Dutch C&D industry is currently down-cycled for road backfilling purposes, 1-3% is currently reused or up-cycled for high-value practices and the remaining is incinerated.
The objective of this study is to identify the challenges that are characterizing recovery and reuse practices in the C&D industry in Zuid-Holland and make a preliminary assessment on whether Blockchain (through DLT and Smart contracts technologies) can be a suitable solution for addressing them. The methods
employed for conducting this study blend desk research with qualitative research (in the form of semistructured interviews) and a decision-making framework to assess the use of Blockchain technology.
The results indicate that the materials and construction elements to be considered more interesting concerning reuse and recovery are bricks, steel profiles and window/door frames. The decision-making process driving their reuse and recovery is company-specific and differs significantly across firms. In general, the data required for assessing the feasibility of reuse and recovery for construction elements are the material composition of new and old buildings, supply-and-demand specific information (volume and timing), technical specification and quality-related data as well as market prices. Challenges characterizing reuse and recovery practices are several. First, construction and demolition activities and asset management practices are asynchronous and separated by large time gaps. Material procurement starts significantly earlier than demolition activities and the process needs to be accurate and based on
reliable data. Data management practices are inconsistent and not harmonized among companies. Digital asset management tools (such as BIM), are employed by large companies only and their use on a national scale is neither harmonized nor compulsory. These aspect limit the economic feasibility of reuse and
recovery practices as the accuracy and reliability of data for driving decision-making is poor or nonexisting. Intra-project and intra-firm data sharing are therefore not possible. A Blockchain system which integrates smart contracts and distributed-ledger-technology (DLT) can partly address and tackle these
issues. To address them fully, however, Blockchain technology must be combined with an asset management tool like BIM for making the solution consistent and scalable at an industry level which in turn requires the implementation of national and industry-wide data management protocols and standards that would harmonize the collection, management and distribution of data across the C&D industry. The Netherlands, unlike other EU member states, has, at this point, no government-driven digitalization strategy in place and is rather opting for a market-driven transition. ...
Urban areas are becoming more densely populated. More than 50% of the global population is already located in them. The Netherlands is among the countries with the highest population density. In 2017, 80% of its population was living in urban areas. It is expected that by 2050 the Netherlands will need between 300’000 and 1.6 million new homes. Construction & demolition (C&D) is characterized as a rsource-intensive industry and among the largest consumer of ntural resources. Urban areas account for 80% of global greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and their infrastructures generate 50% of the total waste produced on earth. Additionally, the increased demand for housing and infrastructure will lead to increased demand for virgin materials and resources, and in turn more waste. From this perspective, the C&D industry will provide a significant contribution to sustainability and will be an important industry for the transition towards a circular economy (CE). The Netherlands has set very ambitious circularity targets for this industry. Specifically, the Government’s Real Estate Agency and Rijkswaterstraat must become fully circular by 2030. Circularity principles address the entire life-cycle of goods and resources, including
waste management practices. The overarching objective is to keep resources within closed loops and at their highest level of utility without losing their technical and economic integrity. As of now, 88% of waste generated yearly by the Dutch C&D industry is currently down-cycled for road backfilling purposes, 1-3% is currently reused or up-cycled for high-value practices and the remaining is incinerated.
The objective of this study is to identify the challenges that are characterizing recovery and reuse practices in the C&D industry in Zuid-Holland and make a preliminary assessment on whether Blockchain (through DLT and Smart contracts technologies) can be a suitable solution for addressing them. The methods
employed for conducting this study blend desk research with qualitative research (in the form of semistructured interviews) and a decision-making framework to assess the use of Blockchain technology.
The results indicate that the materials and construction elements to be considered more interesting concerning reuse and recovery are bricks, steel profiles and window/door frames. The decision-making process driving their reuse and recovery is company-specific and differs significantly across firms. In general, the data required for assessing the feasibility of reuse and recovery for construction elements are the material composition of new and old buildings, supply-and-demand specific information (volume and timing), technical specification and quality-related data as well as market prices. Challenges characterizing reuse and recovery practices are several. First, construction and demolition activities and asset management practices are asynchronous and separated by large time gaps. Material procurement starts significantly earlier than demolition activities and the process needs to be accurate and based on
reliable data. Data management practices are inconsistent and not harmonized among companies. Digital asset management tools (such as BIM), are employed by large companies only and their use on a national scale is neither harmonized nor compulsory. These aspect limit the economic feasibility of reuse and
recovery practices as the accuracy and reliability of data for driving decision-making is poor or nonexisting. Intra-project and intra-firm data sharing are therefore not possible. A Blockchain system which integrates smart contracts and distributed-ledger-technology (DLT) can partly address and tackle these
issues. To address them fully, however, Blockchain technology must be combined with an asset management tool like BIM for making the solution consistent and scalable at an industry level which in turn requires the implementation of national and industry-wide data management protocols and standards that would harmonize the collection, management and distribution of data across the C&D industry. The Netherlands, unlike other EU member states, has, at this point, no government-driven digitalization strategy in place and is rather opting for a market-driven transition.
waste management practices. The overarching objective is to keep resources within closed loops and at their highest level of utility without losing their technical and economic integrity. As of now, 88% of waste generated yearly by the Dutch C&D industry is currently down-cycled for road backfilling purposes, 1-3% is currently reused or up-cycled for high-value practices and the remaining is incinerated.
The objective of this study is to identify the challenges that are characterizing recovery and reuse practices in the C&D industry in Zuid-Holland and make a preliminary assessment on whether Blockchain (through DLT and Smart contracts technologies) can be a suitable solution for addressing them. The methods
employed for conducting this study blend desk research with qualitative research (in the form of semistructured interviews) and a decision-making framework to assess the use of Blockchain technology.
The results indicate that the materials and construction elements to be considered more interesting concerning reuse and recovery are bricks, steel profiles and window/door frames. The decision-making process driving their reuse and recovery is company-specific and differs significantly across firms. In general, the data required for assessing the feasibility of reuse and recovery for construction elements are the material composition of new and old buildings, supply-and-demand specific information (volume and timing), technical specification and quality-related data as well as market prices. Challenges characterizing reuse and recovery practices are several. First, construction and demolition activities and asset management practices are asynchronous and separated by large time gaps. Material procurement starts significantly earlier than demolition activities and the process needs to be accurate and based on
reliable data. Data management practices are inconsistent and not harmonized among companies. Digital asset management tools (such as BIM), are employed by large companies only and their use on a national scale is neither harmonized nor compulsory. These aspect limit the economic feasibility of reuse and
recovery practices as the accuracy and reliability of data for driving decision-making is poor or nonexisting. Intra-project and intra-firm data sharing are therefore not possible. A Blockchain system which integrates smart contracts and distributed-ledger-technology (DLT) can partly address and tackle these
issues. To address them fully, however, Blockchain technology must be combined with an asset management tool like BIM for making the solution consistent and scalable at an industry level which in turn requires the implementation of national and industry-wide data management protocols and standards that would harmonize the collection, management and distribution of data across the C&D industry. The Netherlands, unlike other EU member states, has, at this point, no government-driven digitalization strategy in place and is rather opting for a market-driven transition.
Master thesis
(2021)
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M. Bloemendal, A.C. de Ridder, B. Amaral de Andrade, P.L. Tomesen, K.B.J. Van den Berghe
By conducting co-creation workshops using digital games together with expert interviews a well-considered redesign of the Prinsenhof Museum ensemble in Delft was made. The new design consists of a new, partly underground museum together with a cultural hub of Delft.
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By conducting co-creation workshops using digital games together with expert interviews a well-considered redesign of the Prinsenhof Museum ensemble in Delft was made. The new design consists of a new, partly underground museum together with a cultural hub of Delft.
New planning instruments for urban development
The transition from traditional into a more facilitating approach to urban development projects
The Netherlands is well-known for their long-standing tradition in spatial planning and growth management. Before the crisis of 2008, the municipalities carried out an active land policy in urban development projects, however this approach was not crisis-proof and is subject of change contemporarily. The new Environment and Planning Act expected to enter in force in 2022 plays a significant role in this. There is an ongoing transition from traditional into a more facilitating approach to urban development projects initiated from the government. This new approach offers room for initiatives from the market. However, it is not clear what the impact of these changes are and what it entails. The aim of this research is to clarify the framework of this facilitative approach and what it entails for the municipalities and project developers. In order to investigate this a literature review has been made in which the most important informal and formal procedures, instruments and documents have been described. The design of this research is qualitative. Based on document analysis, semi-structured interviews and multiple case studies a complete overview of the transition is given. This results in the definition of the context of urban development projects, legal and non-legal instruments used, practical experiences and relationship between parties involved. The goal is to map out the entire situation in the present and near future, which could be used as a guidance when the new Environment and Planning Law comes into effect.
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The Netherlands is well-known for their long-standing tradition in spatial planning and growth management. Before the crisis of 2008, the municipalities carried out an active land policy in urban development projects, however this approach was not crisis-proof and is subject of change contemporarily. The new Environment and Planning Act expected to enter in force in 2022 plays a significant role in this. There is an ongoing transition from traditional into a more facilitating approach to urban development projects initiated from the government. This new approach offers room for initiatives from the market. However, it is not clear what the impact of these changes are and what it entails. The aim of this research is to clarify the framework of this facilitative approach and what it entails for the municipalities and project developers. In order to investigate this a literature review has been made in which the most important informal and formal procedures, instruments and documents have been described. The design of this research is qualitative. Based on document analysis, semi-structured interviews and multiple case studies a complete overview of the transition is given. This results in the definition of the context of urban development projects, legal and non-legal instruments used, practical experiences and relationship between parties involved. The goal is to map out the entire situation in the present and near future, which could be used as a guidance when the new Environment and Planning Law comes into effect.
Real Estate at Schiphol Amsterdam Airport
Creating a program to foster the strategic growth of Schiphol based on the knowledge economy
This report focuses on the optimal utilization of commercial office real estate at Schiphol Amsterdam Airport to further contribute to the Mainport Strategy of the Netherlands. It is important to realize that the non-aeronautical activities play a crucial role for the business of the airport, especially considering factors such as a limit on the number of flight transfers per year and the increasing airport charges, that contribute negatively to the aviation business. This research emphasizes focuses on the emergent knowledge economy and how a functional program for office real estate at the airport can further contribute to the knowledge-intensive firms locating there. The literature review forms the base for the research which shows the existing Mainport strategy and Schiphol’s role, followed by an insight into the emergent knowledge economy and its potential for the airport location. Next, the empirical part of this research includes understanding the demands of the knowledge corporations at the airport, the strategies used by the office providers, and experts opinions to corroborate the findings from the demand and supply side. Thus, using this triangulation scheme, strategic recommendations are made for an optimal utilization of the office space to Schiphol Real Estate. This research is highly pertinent not only to the real estate department at Schiphol and other knowledge corporations who are looking to (re)locate in the airport vicinity, and also for other airports around the world to provide appropriate real estate for the commercial office spaces.
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This report focuses on the optimal utilization of commercial office real estate at Schiphol Amsterdam Airport to further contribute to the Mainport Strategy of the Netherlands. It is important to realize that the non-aeronautical activities play a crucial role for the business of the airport, especially considering factors such as a limit on the number of flight transfers per year and the increasing airport charges, that contribute negatively to the aviation business. This research emphasizes focuses on the emergent knowledge economy and how a functional program for office real estate at the airport can further contribute to the knowledge-intensive firms locating there. The literature review forms the base for the research which shows the existing Mainport strategy and Schiphol’s role, followed by an insight into the emergent knowledge economy and its potential for the airport location. Next, the empirical part of this research includes understanding the demands of the knowledge corporations at the airport, the strategies used by the office providers, and experts opinions to corroborate the findings from the demand and supply side. Thus, using this triangulation scheme, strategic recommendations are made for an optimal utilization of the office space to Schiphol Real Estate. This research is highly pertinent not only to the real estate department at Schiphol and other knowledge corporations who are looking to (re)locate in the airport vicinity, and also for other airports around the world to provide appropriate real estate for the commercial office spaces.
Risks and success factors in transforming urban areas
A management framework
Monofunctional office areas in the Netherlands have been facing difficulties in recent decades. Obsolescence of buildings causes financial, social and environmental problems for owners, users, municipalities and society. As most office buildings are located in monofunctional urban areas, the problem of obsolescence becomes a structural one on an area level and solutions on a building level are insufficient. This requires a generic solution by transforming the area into a mixed-use location which is more liveable, self-sufficient and future-proof. Urban area transformation is a highly complex process that involves multiple actors, multiple projects and specific risks. This research aims to identify and analyse inherent risks in addition with factors that promote success. The research design is qualitative, based on case studies, semi-structured expert interviews and a questionnaire. The first outcome is an extended risk register that is combined with a success factor register, which increases awareness and can be used as a checklist to manage risks and achieve success factors. Secondly, a framework is designed that can be applied as a tool to manage risks and success factors within the process of transforming urban areas. Finally, general advice is given in form of developers and policy recommendations. Those outcomes help professionals in the field to reduce uncertainty and to successfully transform urban areas, and thus fight obsolescence.
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Monofunctional office areas in the Netherlands have been facing difficulties in recent decades. Obsolescence of buildings causes financial, social and environmental problems for owners, users, municipalities and society. As most office buildings are located in monofunctional urban areas, the problem of obsolescence becomes a structural one on an area level and solutions on a building level are insufficient. This requires a generic solution by transforming the area into a mixed-use location which is more liveable, self-sufficient and future-proof. Urban area transformation is a highly complex process that involves multiple actors, multiple projects and specific risks. This research aims to identify and analyse inherent risks in addition with factors that promote success. The research design is qualitative, based on case studies, semi-structured expert interviews and a questionnaire. The first outcome is an extended risk register that is combined with a success factor register, which increases awareness and can be used as a checklist to manage risks and achieve success factors. Secondly, a framework is designed that can be applied as a tool to manage risks and success factors within the process of transforming urban areas. Finally, general advice is given in form of developers and policy recommendations. Those outcomes help professionals in the field to reduce uncertainty and to successfully transform urban areas, and thus fight obsolescence.