The island of Pampus is part of the 19th century waterline defense of Amsterdam. In 1996 it became a UNESCO world heritage site. The Fort Island Pampus Foundation, responsible for preserving the heritage, is developing Pampus into a fully climate neutral and educational island. Foundation De Boomgaard helped in funding a hypermodern renewable energy system and a sustainable built classroom.

A renewable energy system and sustainable classroom

The construction of an integrated renewable energy system was completed in the autumn of 2023. Various components have been built, including solar batteries for storage capacity, wind turbines, a hydrogen power plant digestor and gas storage. All these elements work via digital controls.

At the same spot of a storage shed that burned down in 1932 the classroom is built. With sustainable materials, including circular concrete, which has more than 70% less CO2 emissions compared to regular concrete. In addition, the roof is formed by 92 solar panels, which generate more energy than the building needs. The classroom is completely dedicated to sustainability education and will offer room for 10,000 students every year.