Home sustainability subsidies in South Holland

Home sustainability subsidies in South Holland

ROTTERDAM, 4 February 2025 – Homeowners in South Holland received substantial subsidies for sustainability improvements in 2024, though Rotterdam residents saw less benefit due to high numbers of rental properties. In 2025, the rules and subsidy amounts have changed, affecting homeowners considering renovations this year.

 

ISDE subsidies mostly granted outside Rotterdam

Since 2016, the Investeringssubsidie duurzame energie en energiebesparing (ISDE) has provided financial support to homeowners investing in energy-efficient upgrades. New research by the sustainability platform Slimster, based on data from the Regional Climate Monitor, shows that in 2024, subsidies were primarily allocated in smaller municipalities outside major cities.

In South Holland, Wassenaar received the highest subsidies per household, with an average of nearly €3,700 per 100 households. Other municipalities high on the list include Nieuwkoop, Bodegraven-Reeuwijk, Midden-Delfland, and Voorschoten. Residents of Voorschoten most frequently applied for insulation subsidies, while those in Bodegraven-Reeuwijk and Nieuwkoop led in applications for heat pumps. The typical subsidy per application was approximately €2,700.

 

 

Rotterdam sees fewer subsidies due to housing composition

Rotterdam, along with cities such as Delft, Leiden, and The Hague, saw lower ISDE allocations. According to Marco Schuurman of Slimster, this is largely due to the housing composition in urban areas.

“The ISDE subsidy is specifically for homeowners, and cities like Rotterdam have a high proportion of rental properties and apartments,” Schuurman explained. “Additionally, homes outside the city are often larger and detached, which means more insulation material and larger heat pumps are needed. These higher costs lead to higher subsidies.”

 

Changes in ISDE subsidies for 2025

Homeowners planning renovations in 2025 should be aware of changes in subsidy amounts. The subsidy for triple glazing has increased significantly, from €65.50 to €111 per square metre, while support for HR++ glass remains at only €25 per square metre. Triple glazing is only eligible for a subsidy if installed with insulating window frames, typically made of synthetic materials.

Additionally, the government aims to encourage the use of sustainable insulation materials. Homeowners choosing biobased materials such as wood fibre or sheep wool can receive a bonus subsidy of up to €6 per square metre, depending on the type of insulation.

Conversely, subsidies for heat pumps have been adjusted. The minimum subsidy has been reduced from €2,100 to €1,250, but for larger systems, the subsidy per extra kW has increased from €150 to €225. This change is intended to promote heat pumps with higher efficiency or greater capacity, particularly for larger homes.

 

Conclusion

While Rotterdam residents benefited less from ISDE subsidies in 2024 due to housing composition, changes in 2025 could affect future applications. Homeowners looking to invest in sustainability measures should consider the updated subsidy conditions to maximise their benefits.

Nostalgic phone booths return to Rotterdam streets

Nostalgic phone booths return to Rotterdam streets

ROTTERDAM, 10 January 2025 – Nostalgic phone booths have reappeared in Rotterdam's streets, aiming to address the growing issue of social isolation. The initiative, part of the 'Mooiste Contact Maand', encourages more personal connections.

 

Phone booths return to Rotterdam to tackle social isolation

The streets of Rotterdam are now home to four nostalgic phone booths as part of an initiative launched by the KPN Mooiste Contact Fonds. The ‘Mooiste Contact Maand’ (literally ‘Most Beautiful Contact Month’) is an initiative aimed at raising awareness of social isolation (contactarmoede) and encouraging meaningful human connections through activities and outreach efforts. According to recent research, over one-third of Dutch people have days when they speak to no one. Among those aged 40 to 49, 37% report feeling their social connections are inadequate, and one in four feel they receive too few visits.

The phone booths will travel across the Netherlands in the coming weeks, inspiring people to make personal phone calls and reconnect. Throughout the year, the foundation will continue to organise activities to foster meaningful social contact.

 

Key findings on social connections

The findings of a survey conducted in November 2024 among over 2,000 Dutch participants reveal the following:

  • Two-thirds of respondents admitted that, at times, they should call or visit someone but fail to do so.
  • Nearly half (47.5%) admitted to sending messages when they believe a call or visit would have been more appropriate.
  • 55.7% preferred receiving a phone call or visit over a message.
  • 29% rated their social connections as insufficient, with a peak of 37.1% among those aged 40-49.
  • 30% of respondents felt more comfortable expressing themselves in messages rather than face-to-face.
  • Over 45% considered it a worthwhile resolution for 2025 to prioritise real social contact.
  • Approximately 17% found phone calls intimidating, with this figure rising to 28.5% among people under 30.

 

Mark Versteegen, director of the KPN Mooiste Contact Fonds, makes a phone call during the launch of the Mooiste Contact Maand.Mark Versteegen, director of the KPN Mooiste Contact Fonds, makes a phone call during the launch of the Mooiste Contact Maand.

 

Psychological insights into social connection

Psychologist and author Marissa van der Sluis, who attended the presentation of the research, remarked, “While digital connectivity is constant, real connection is dwindling. Authentic contact involves seeing, hearing, and meeting each other in person. It’s unpredictable, which makes it challenging but also fulfilling.” She added that the increasing preference for text-based communication stems from its perceived safety, allowing users to refine their words before sharing.

 

Encouraging a return to authentic contact

Mark Versteegen, director of the KPN Mooiste Contact Fonds, highlighted the importance of pausing digital distractions to foster real connections. “This January, we’re showing people how small actions—like stopping scrolling and making personal contact—can combat social isolation,” Versteegen explained. Alongside the travelling phone booths, a special phone call workshop for young people will take place on 23 January, helping participants feel more at ease with calls. “We aim not just to raise awareness but also to equip people with tools to address this issue,” Versteegen concluded.

Sociologist and gerontologist Eric Schoenmakers, an expert on loneliness, emphasised the significance of social ties for overall wellbeing. “Breaking social isolation is crucial to prevent people from becoming disconnected. Initiatives like these provide meaningful pathways to stronger connections.”

 

Local advocate shares a personal story

Rotterdam-based influencer Qucee underscored the importance of addressing social isolation by sharing his own experiences. “I was bullied during my youth and felt profoundly lonely, avoiding making contact with others. That period even led to depression. A healthy social life is vital for our wellbeing, and I want to help break the stigma surrounding mental health. Real connection makes an enormous difference,” he said.

Plastic bags vanish as Rotterdam adopts reusables

Plastic bags vanish as Rotterdam adopts reusables

ROTTERDAM, 16 December 2024 – A plastic bag displayed as a museum exhibit in Rotterdam's Koopgoot has highlighted a shift towards reusable alternatives during festive shopping. Recent research shows South Hollanders are increasingly choosing sustainable options.

Plastic bags phased out as Rotterdam embraces reusable alternatives

Shoppers in Rotterdam were surprised this past weekend as a bright orange plastic bag stood encased in a glass display at the Koopgoot shopping area. The symbolic installation, part of a campaign by Supporter van Schoon, aims to mark the declining use of single-use plastic bags in the Netherlands.

The campaign aligns with new research from Markteffect, commissioned by Supporter van Schoon (part of Verpact), which surveyed over 1,000 South Holland residents aged 18 and older. The findings indicate that 78% of shoppers now bring a reusable bag when shopping for non-grocery items, and 87% do so for groceries. For clothing, reusable bags are used by 71% of shoppers.

Nearly a quarter of respondents said they use reusable bags more frequently compared to two years ago, while two-thirds reported having up to 10 reusable alternatives at home.

The museum piece: a turning point for the plastic bag

Hester Klein Lankhorst, CEO of Verpact, reflected on the plastic bag’s shifting role in daily life. “The plastic bag has been an integral part of our routines, but we have reached a turning point. Increasingly, South Hollanders are choosing reusable options not only for groceries but also for clothing and gifts. Our goal is to ensure packaging becomes fully sustainable, which benefits both the environment and helps combat litter,” Klein Lankhorst stated.

A plastic bag exhibit in Rotterdam’s Koopgoot highlights a shift towards reusable alternatives as shoppers move away from single-use plastics.A plastic bag exhibit in Rotterdam’s Koopgoot highlights a shift towards reusable alternatives as shoppers move away from single-use plastics.

Differences between men, women, and age groups

The research also reveals gender-based and generational trends. Women are more likely to carry reusable bags compared to men:

  • 92% of women versus 80% of men bring a reusable bag for groceries.
  • 79% of women versus 60% of men do so when shopping for clothing.

While women tend to favour foldable fabric or cotton bags, men are more likely to use backpacks or sports bags. Creative solutions for carrying purchases, such as boxes or buggy compartments, were also reported.

Generationally, older adults (66+) are more consistent in reusing bags, with 34% claiming they “always” bring a reusable bag. In contrast, only 19% of respondents aged 18-30 reported the same habit. Forgetting a reusable bag or making unplanned purchases were cited as the main reasons for using single-use bags.

From ubiquitous to obsolete

The plastic bag, first developed in 1959, became widespread globally in the 1970s. However, growing awareness of environmental impacts has led to significant policy changes. In 2016, the Netherlands introduced a ban on free plastic bags, requiring retailers to charge for them. The measure has resulted in a sharp decline in plastic bag use, making reusable options the new norm.

Nearly two-thirds of survey participants noted a visible reduction in plastic bags in their surroundings, reflecting a broader societal shift.

Donate winter shoes to help those in need in Rotterdam

Donate winter shoes to help those in need in Rotterdam

ROTTERDAM, 2 December 2024 – Residents of Rotterdam are being called upon to donate durable shoes and winter accessories to support those in need during the cold months. This initiative, organised by the ReShare Store on Korte Hoogstraat, aims to help vulnerable individuals in the city stay warm.

Winter shoe donation drive launches in Rotterdam

As temperatures drop, the ReShare Store in Rotterdam has launched an initiative to collect durable, reusable shoes for individuals and families facing hardship. Running until 19 December, the project seeks to provide immediate relief by distributing the donated items directly to those most in need.

The store is working with local organisations, including the De Hoop walk-in centre (inloophuis), to ensure the donations reach individuals who need them most. Shoes, along with accessories such as hats, scarves, gloves, and socks, will be distributed locally to people experiencing homelessness, struggling families, and others in vulnerable situations.

Addressing local needs in winter

The ReShare Store emphasises the tangible impact of such donations. “One pair of shoes can make a big difference,” the store’s team noted. “With your contribution, someone can face the winter with warmth and dignity.”

The donations will also support activities at De Hoop’s walk-in centre, which provides not only material aid but also practical assistance such as help with drafting letters to social services or creating CVs. Regular activities and communal meals are also part of the centre’s outreach to vulnerable populations.

How to participate

Rotterdam residents are encouraged to donate sturdy, reusable shoes in any size, as well as warm accessories, at the ReShare Store. Donations will be accepted until 19 December.

Location: ReShare Store, Korte Hoogstraat 11-13, Rotterdam
Deadline: 19 December 2024

All items collected will be distributed as locally as possible, ensuring direct support for Rotterdam residents in need.

About the ReShare Store

The ReShare Store is a clothing shop operated by the Salvation Army (Leger des Heils), blending second-hand fashion with a mission to give back to the community. The store offers vintage and second-hand clothing at fair prices while supporting social initiatives through its work.

Directions to the donation site

The ReShare Store is located on Korte Hoogstraat in the heart of Rotterdam’s city centre, easily accessible by public transport and a short walk from popular shopping areas. The store’s central location makes it convenient for anyone wishing to drop off donations.

Goodness pop-up store opens in Rotterdam

Goodness pop-up store opens in Rotterdam

ROTTERDAM, 16 November 2024 – A new pop-up store aims to address food insecurity in Rotterdam, a city where disparities in access to healthy meals persist. Goodness introduces an initiative combining affordability with sustainability to support residents.

Tackling food insecurity in Rotterdam

Goodness, a social enterprise, is opening a temporary shop at Rotterdam Centraal Station, located between HEMA and Sissy-Boy. The initiative provides affordable meals to city residents, especially those with limited financial resources. Meals are available for €1, with ingredients including beans, rice, and vegetables. This pricing model is subsidised by sales to customers who pay slightly more than usual for the same meals, ensuring fairness and sustainability.

Rotterdam was chosen as the launch city due to its diverse population and contrasting socioeconomic landscapes. Goodness highlights that one in seven households in the city struggles to access healthy food, reflecting broader food inequality across the Netherlands.



Rooted in sustainability

The meals offered are inspired by the “Menu of the Future,” a concept developed by the Lancet EAT Commission. This research advocates for sustainable food systems capable of nourishing a global population of 10 billion. Goodness incorporates this vision by offering healthy, affordable meals that also minimise environmental impact.

How to participate

Rotterdam residents are encouraged to engage with the initiative by visiting the pop-up store, purchasing meals, or contributing to the associated crowdfunding campaign via the organisation's website. The campaign aims to bolster efforts to reduce food insecurity and promote equitable access to nutritious meals.

Location and details

Goodness pop-up store at Rotterdam Centraal

The Goodness pop-up store is open from 19 November 2024 at Rotterdam Centraal Station, between HEMA and Sissy-Boy. Visitors can learn more about the initiative, purchase meals, or support the cause directly. For directions to the store:

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