During our interview with Alex Rozendaal, Project Manager at SADC, the ambition became clear: not only to measure what is there now, but above all to look ahead.
How does an area develop in terms of biodiversity and climate adaptation? Can we predict how an area will evolve ecologically and become more climate-resilient? What happens to biodiversity when more large trees are planted, ditches are enhanced, water retention areas are created or a hazelnut woodland is established?
Instead of relying on isolated snapshots, sensors and the SADC Ecomonitor generate a continuous stream of data. By bringing this real-time information together in our GAES Digital Twin, a model is created that helps visualise the current situation, calculate different scenarios and better understand which measures contribute to biodiversity, climate adaptation and a pleasant living and working environment.
It is not only about certification, although that is, of course, a valuable recognition. The motivation goes much deeper. SADC develops work landscapes where target species, such as birds and insects, are given the space to thrive, where green spaces and water contribute to a resilient landscape, and where people can work in a pleasant and safe environment.
Because broad prosperity is also about how we experience an area. Being able to take a walk through green surroundings. Feeling safe and at ease, while supporting people’s well-being. It is about work landscapes that are not only economically valuable, but also ecologically sound, climate-resilient and socially beneficial. Healthy places where people enjoy working and spending time.
While taking photographs of the sensors in the area, we experienced first-hand what this development means. You can hear a wide variety of birds, pheasants move through the reeds, and bees and butterflies clearly benefit from the diversity of herbs and wildflowers. At New Terra, also known as the green heart of Schiphol Trade Park, great tits were busy building their nests in the wildlife tower, while a buzzard had even made its nest in a green façade. These are exactly the kinds of observations that show how ecological choices do not remain abstract, but become visible and tangible in the landscape itself.
Through this project, GAES and SADC bring together data, ecology and area development. In doing so, we make clear how the choices made today contribute to the work landscapes of tomorrow.
Visit the SADC website for more information: Digital Twin Airport Corridor – SADC
