Dutch cities are losing green spaces as urbanization speeds up
Public green spaces in major Dutch cities are disappearing at an alarming rate, despite efforts to promote urban greenery. A new report from Natuur & Milieu and engineering consultancy Sweco reveals that the average amount of green space per home has dropped by 24 percent in just five years. This decline comes even as cities launch initiatives like the "Dutch National Tile-Flipping Championship" (NK Tegelwippen), facade gardens, and rain barrel campaigns to encourage greening efforts, according to RTL.
Despite numerous projects aimed at increasing green spaces, the study shows that urban areas in the Netherlands' 30 largest municipalities have actually become more paved over. One in five people now live in heavily concreted neighborhoods, where green space per home falls below the government’s recommended minimum of 75 square meters and one hectare per district.
Wilma Berends, program leader for Groene Stad at Natuur & Milieu, warns that shrinking green space is a serious problem. “Greenery is essential,” she told RTL. “It helps combat extreme weather caused by climate change, such as heat stress, flooding, and drought. It’s also critical for people’s mental and physical health.”
The report highlights a major issue: urban expansion is outpacing green initiatives. “Cities want to add green spaces, and residents are eager to help,” Berends explained. “But the pressure to build more homes clashes with the need for more greenery.”
Haarlem, despite ongoing greening projects, was recently named the most stone-heavy city in the Netherlands for the second year in a row. The municipality insists it is taking action. “We’re working with residents to replace paved squares with greenery, plant trees, and install green roofs,” officials said.
Sweco urban green expert Joeri Meliefste points out that many cities still have unnecessary paved areas. “Wide sidewalks and large parking lots could easily be turned into green spaces,” he told RTL.
One example of successful urban greening is the Willem van Oranjeschool in Haarlem. Its 1,000-square-meter schoolyard, once covered in concrete, has been transformed into a green playground. The revamped space now features shade trees, a small stream, and climbing structures with wood chips for drainage. “We’re thrilled,” said school director Corine Gerritsma. “It’s a great addition to a city that desperately needs more green spaces.”
Municipalities are ultimately responsible for urban greening policies. In December, Natuur & Milieu and Sweco presented their findings to Housing Minister Keijzer, who responded in a letter to the Tweede Kamer. She made it clear that cities—not the national government—must take charge of greening efforts. This disappointed Natuur & Milieu, which had called for a nationwide green standard. “Green space is still too dependent on well-intentioned local politicians and citizen initiatives,” the organization stated.
The Association of Dutch Municipalities (VNG) acknowledges the issue but argues that balancing green space with housing and infrastructure is a major challenge. “Municipalities want to green their cities,” spokesperson Esther Verhoeff said. “But competition for public space is fierce. We need to raise awareness among residents and continue supporting successful green projects.”
Despite large-scale projects like this, Natuur & Milieu stresses the importance of small actions as well. “Keep removing pavement,” the organization urges. “Every little bit of greenery helps. But the reality remains: Dutch cities still have far too much concrete and not enough green.”
