Van der Zanden Moergestel B.V. Construction Company doesn’t just think about innovation and sustainability—they put them into practice every single day. This is evident, for example, from the fact that they operate the first (and so far only) electric-powered crane in the Netherlands. A welcome addition, especially when it gives them the opportunity to carry out the first zero-emission demolition project in the Netherlands.
Sustainable from Civil Engineering to Demolition
Van der Zanden is a diverse company with three areas of expertise: general contracting (civil engineering and landscape architecture), environmental services (ranging from demolition and asbestos removal to soil remediation), and a soil bank for the circular processing of soil.
Edith Cleijsen (HSE Coordinator) made a conscious choice to work at Van der Zanden. That’s because this company has something very special to offer. “Sustainability and innovation are, of course, important themes at many companies. Yet sometimes it stops at making plans, and not as much is done as could be. At Van der Zanden, it’s really different—we want to actually put into practice what we can do. For me and many other employees, that adds an extra dimension to our work.”
This ambition, combined with a drive to take action, makes Van der Zanden one of the most innovative companies in the field of sustainability—both within the industry and far beyond.
Old Harley Garage, New Sustainable Approach
The very first zero-emission demolition in the Netherlands—that was the ambition of the client and Van der Zanden for the site of the old Harley garage in Breda. To demonstrate that Van der Zanden not only operates emission-free but also disposes of materials in a circular and sustainable manner, Normec’s expertise was enlisted. “We also want to be able to demonstrate that we operate as circularly as possible in this process. That’s why we applied for—and were awarded—the circular demolition certificate from Normec,” explains Cleijsen. The choice of Normec was no accident, as this organization, too, is committed to creating a better world. Creating a safe and healthy work and living environment is a top priority in this regard.
Van der Zanden has been using Normec’s services for years. “We know and trust each other. We’re on the same page when it comes to the details, but Normec also ensures that all certifications—and the process leading up to them—are always transparent. The fully automated system sends automatic updates and notifications, so we’re always up to date. That instills confidence.”
The understanding of each other’s working methods and the level of expertise on both sides ensure that a clean and quiet demolition is carried out on the old Harley site. This goes (far) beyond simply using an electric crane.
Not Just Thinking About Sustainability, but Acting on It
Van der Zanden aims to operate sustainably in every area where possible. In addition to deploying the first electric crane, an electric Giant Shovel is also being used. The expansion of the electric fleet will continue to take shape in the coming years.
A great addition, but Van der Zanden is doing even more in the area of sustainability.
The company also operates a certified soil bank where soil is environmentally tested so it can be reused in projects. If that’s not possible, the soil is disposed of in accordance with legal guidelines.
“The roof of our warehouse is covered with 2,400 solar panels,” says Cleijsen. “This allows us to charge the electric battery packs that power all our construction trailers. It’s much less polluting and much quieter than the generator we used to use for that purpose.”
A Sustainable Partnership for Sustainable Execution
Why do Cleijsen and her colleagues enjoy working with Normec so much and continue to do so? Cleijsen believes it goes far beyond “just a nice sales pitch”: “With Normec’s convenient system, our processes are much less prone to errors, and deadlines are no longer missed. That certainly provides a sense of peace of mind and clarity.”
But Cleijsen sees more to it. “Thanks to our many years of working together, we know each other well and can successfully carry out these kinds of ambitious projects. Emissions-free sounds great—and it is—but it really comes down to the details. You have to know exactly what you’re doing. Together with Normec’s highly experienced team, we can make the entire process transparent. That’s why we’re all the more proud to have received the circular demolition certificate.”
“The fully automated system sends automatic updates and notifications, so we’re always up to date. That gives us confidence.”
— Edith Cleijsen, HSE Coordinator Van Der Zanden
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