Sustainability at HvA and UvA

The Challenge of Sustainability Communication

The universities of Amsterdam were at a crossroads, facing the pressing global urgency of sustainability. Despite numerous student-led projects, the results often remained confined to reports, with potential synergies between projects left untapped. ZenQuality, tasked with devising a solution, recognized the need for a unified communication front to elevate these efforts beyond academic exercises, making a tangible impact on the universities' sustainability agenda.

GreenNet: A Solution Emerges

ZenQuality's strategy was multifaceted. They developed the Green Corner, a biophilic, engaging physical space, and complemented it with a robust digital platform, offering easy access to sustainability resources and encouraging active community participation. This approach was grounded in behavioral psychology insights, notably Robert Cialdini's principles of persuasion, ensuring that the initiative resonated deeply with the university community.

Impacting the Campus Culture

The project's success was palpable, especially during the UvA and HvA Green Weeks. These events, inspired by ZenQuality's research, became a melting pot of ideas, fostering a culture of sustainability. The Green Weeks epitomized the project's ethos: not just raising awareness but actively involving the community in meaningful sustainability practices. The Greennet project, thus, evolved from a mere communication tool into a catalyst for change, aligning perfectly with Amsterdam's ambition to lead in the circular economy.