ROTTERDAM, 23 September 2025 – The municipality of Rotterdam has announced a second round of funding to support sustainable housing projects by local housing corporations. Almost €2 million will be made available to encourage the use of biobased materials and energy-efficient construction.
Focus on reducing emissions
The construction sector is responsible for a large share of national CO₂ emissions, not only through energy use but also in the production of building materials. Rotterdam is addressing this by subsidising projects that incorporate at least 30% biobased materials such as wood, flax and bamboo.
In the first round of the Subsidy for Sustainable Housing by Housing Corporations, projects by Hef Wonen, Havensteder, Woonstad and Woonbron resulted in 122 social housing units designed to be both energy-efficient and affordable. These homes are expected to lower residents’ energy bills while reducing overall emissions.
New opportunities in second round
The second round will provide €1.95 million in funding. Housing corporations that plan to build new homes or rooftop extensions in the next five years are eligible to apply. Projects must use biobased materials for at least 30% of construction and comply with the city’s integrated sustainability indicator (GPR).
Alderman Chantal Zeegers (Climate, Housing and Construction) said: “If we want to meet our climate targets, we must change the way we build. By using biobased materials and reusing resources, we can create more sustainable, energy-efficient and affordable homes for people with smaller budgets.”
Objectives of the programme
The funding has three main goals:
- lowering CO₂ emissions in the construction sector;
- making sustainable and affordable housing available to more residents;
- building practical experience to scale up biobased construction methods.
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