In the Netherlands, and especially in the western metropolitan area of the Randstad, space is a very scarce resource. Proper and responsible use of it is thus essential. Also in the Westpoort port area there is a constant battle between the many port activities and the requiring space.
Necessary space
Port of Amsterdam assists companies in obtaining an ideal site in a particular area. In this way nuisance factors are kept to a minimum. It also means reduced transport distances between associated operations, and between companies and the infrastructure. When new companies set up special attention is paid to locating them in relation to other companies, site size and the general set-up of the area.
Port of Amsterdam also works on large scale restructuring projects by which whole areas may be laid low and prepared for redevelopment. Restructuring targets the return of old leased sites that are not being used to their best and intensifying business activities in relationship to space usage.
Current restructuring projects
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Business and government organisations often make agreements on the management and the set-up of business parks. In Westpoort such park management is not yet operational. Over the coming three years the Port of Amsterdam will be undertaking a pilot project in both a new area (the coming Atlaspark) and a still to be selected urban area. If the formula chosen proves a success, then structured park management will be gradually introduced in Westpoort. Companies will be obliged to participate and will receive a basic operations and facilities package.
Basic operations and facilities package
In addition to the basic package companies will have the opportunity to subscribe for a wider range of voluntary additional services and products..
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Transport of goods by rail or water are the least environmentally damaging of transport modes. Port of Amsterdam is thus encouraging use of this type of transport. It is currently supporting a number of European pilot projects seeking to replace transport by road by transport by rail or water. In parallel to this, Port of Amsterdam is also involved in projects targeting the improvement of road accessibility to Westpoort as road transport will remain necessary especially over short distances and for certain types of load.
W-bus
Port of Amsterdam recently was one of the parties taking the initiative for the introduction of the W-bus. Since May 2003 this has been transporting employees of Westpoort-based companies to and from the station at Sloterdijk. So far five companies are participating though this number is expected to rise. Staff of other companies can make use of public transport. For unimpeded movement, a number of special bus lanes have been created. With the increasing traffic pressures it is considered necessary to expand this network. This will happen in the near future.
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Waste
Companies in Westpoort give special attention to prevent waste and to its justified removal. The Port of Amsterdam is supporting companies doing this, by starting a number of projects.
Responsible removal of waste
Sustainable energy
Westpoort is an appropriate location for the application of sustainable energy in various ways. Currently there are twenty windmills in the area. But solar energy also offers potential. Lighting along the North Sea Canal is assured by high voltage cables and most buoys and channel markings are provided by gas or battery powered lights.
Heat storage
Heat storage is not yet operational. This technology uses summer heat 'stored' in deeper groundwater. In wintertime the stored heat is used to heat buildings and roads. Over the coming two years research will show whether this is economically feasible in Westpoort.
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There are three levels of water quality in the port area.
Qualities of water
Industrial water is water from the rivers that after limited treatment is used by companies. It is more economic than drinking water. In Westpoort there is a sewerage treatment plant that discharges its water into port waters. After limited treatment this water could also be used as industrial water. Together with the water supply company and local water board, the Port of Amsterdam is researching whether this will prove economically feasible.
Water management
This is the science of optimal rainfall collection and discharge. It is management in the form of water management plans. Over coming time research will be undertaken as to how this can be further improved.
Water management research coverage
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Port of Amsterdam has deployed activities in this area.
Internal company initiatives
The emphasis here lies on the reduction of paper and energy usage by staff. There is considerable statistical information available. This also will enable the setting of measurable targets for the foreseeable future.
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