VANDPLUS - Combining rainwater and urban development

VANDPLUS is a partnership between the Danish Foundation for Culture and Sports Facilities and the private philanthropic organisation, Realdania, in collaboration with the Danish Ministry of the Environment. Together they have awarded DKK 12 million to four projects that demonstrate how climate adaption is more than just underground sewage, and has much more potential when elevated to the surface.

VANDPLUS (Water Plus) sets a new agenda for climate adaptation in urban areas by focusing on how we can create new public spaces that not only retain rainfall in the event of cloudbursts, but also act as active outdoor spaces for city citizens.

The vast majority of the billions of DKK to be invested in climate adaptation over the next few years will be used in urban areas. The investments offer great potential for developing urban spaces which can both manage rain water and make room for active living, recreation and nature. VANDPLUS shows that close cross-organisational cooperation is essential in creating these kinds of urban spaces. It also shows that if such cooperation succeeds, there is money to be saved, and new, fantastic and creative urban spaces to be made.

The four projects illustrate the variety of opportunities from combining rainwater management with recreation; not only in innovative solutions, but also within cooperation between municipalities and utility companies. More information about the four projects in our next newsletter.

Updating of previous case as district cooling centres are expanding in Copenhagen.

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