Current Project Cases

Below you can find an overview of the project cases currently available in the sustainable Communities Learning Community:

Topic: Water governance

The new water policy plan advocates for a reform of the governance system for water in Curaçao. Given the island's small scale and limited resources, it is essential to design a governance structure that is both efficient and adaptable to local conditions. The challenge lies in establishing a system that ensures effective water management while considering the constraints of available resources, the need for coordination across sectors, and the importance of community involvement in sustainable water practices. How can Curaçao develop a governance framework that balances these factors while fostering long-term water security?

Topic: Green infrastructure as a water management intervention

Green roofs and green walls have been identified as potential climate adaptation measures to reduce water runoff during pluvial events and mitigate urban heat. The effectiveness of these solutions in Curaçao, particularly in the context of urban Willemstad, needs to be assessed. How can green roofs and walls be successfully implemented in Willemstad, considering the city’s unique climate conditions and its heritage status, ensuring that these adaptations contribute to sustainability without compromising the historical and cultural integrity of the area.

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Topic: Water label

The new water policy plan proposes the introduction of a water label, similar to the energy label, to help consumers make informed decisions when purchasing water appliances and for homes. The challenge lies in developing and implementing this label in Curaçao, taking into account local conditions, consumer behavior, and the availability of water-efficient technologies. How can a water label be effectively designed and integrated into the market to promote sustainable water use, while ensuring it is accessible, understandable, and relevant for consumers in Curaçao?

Topic: Housing policy for the Urban area

The "Kaya Kaya" festival in Curaçao has transformed the Ser’i Otrobanda area into a vibrant and dynamic community, contributing to a rise in real estate prices. Despite this positive development, the primary goal is to preserve the character of the neighborhood and prevent gentrification. To achieve this, the government could implement targeted policy interventions. A comparative analysis of strategies applied in the Pietermaai and Ser’i Otrobanda districts offers insights for effective approaches. How can these measures be designed to balance development with community preservation?

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Topic: SEHOS- intergenerational living

The decommissioning of the St. Elisabeth Hospital (SEHOS) following the establishment of the new medical facility presents an exciting opportunity to repurpose this iconic building in the heart of Otrobanda. The vision is to transform SEHOS into a vibrant hub for intergenerational living, fostering a sense of community and connection across age groups. This redevelopment can combine residential spaces, community amenities, and social services to create a dynamic and inclusive environment that enhances the neighborhood's cultural and historical identity while addressing modern housing and social needs.

Topic: Viaduct Area Otrobanda

The Viaduct currently serves as a physical barrier in Otrobanda, disrupting the flow of the neighborhood and limiting connectivity. There is a proposal to remove the viaduct and repurpose its materials for constructing a bridge in Salina, aimed at addressing water management challenges. This presents a unique opportunity to revitalize the area. This transformation would create a two-tiered space in Otrobanda, potentially enhancing pedestrian and vehicular accessibility, as well as improving the area's aesthetic and social appeal. This transformation, however, will impact traffic patterns in the area. To mitigate potential traffic disruptions, a comprehensive plan is needed, including alternative routes, improved public transportation options, and smart traffic management systems to ensure seamless mobility while preserving the area's vibrancy and functionality.

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Topic: Fire prevention in Willemstad

Willemstad's narrow alleys pose significant challenges for firefighting efforts in the inner city. With rising temperatures and recent incidents, such as a restaurant kitchen fire, the risk of fire spreading is a growing concern. How can fire prevention and response strategies be improved in Willemstad's inner city, considering its unique urban layout, increasing heat, and the need for effective firefighting access?

Topic: Reducing the impact of heat in the inner city

Building on the efforts of the MDP team’s work at Wilhelmina Plein, the challenge is to explore how other squares and vacant lots in the inner city can be transformed into more livable and climate-resilient spaces. This involves reimagining these areas to enhance urban sustainability, improve public spaces, and adapt to climate change impacts. How can these transformations create multifunctional spaces that benefit the community while addressing environmental challenges in the urban context?

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Topic: Coastal development and sea-level rise

Willemstad, as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is facing a growing threat from sea level rise, with king tides already causing the water from the Waaigat to encroach upon the roads. The risk to the area's cultural and historical heritage is significant, and immediate action is required to protect Willemstad from further damage. What strategies can be implemented to safeguard the Willemstad area from the impacts of sea level rise, ensuring both the preservation of its heritage and the resilience of its infrastructure in the face of climate change.

Topic: Communication toolkit for the youth

The increasing impacts of climate change highlight the urgent need for effective communication strategies to engage the youth in climate action and adaptation. However, there is a lack of targeted resources that resonate with young people and empower them to understand and respond to climate challenges. How can a communication toolkit be developed that effectively informs, engages, and motivates the youth on climate change and adaptation, ensuring it is accessible, relatable, and encourages active participation in building a sustainable future?

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