Antwerp is a bustling city in Belgium, home to the second largest port in Europe. Its rich history is showcased throughout the city. Each year around 85% of the world’s rough diamonds go through the Diamantwijk. In the 15th century it became a hub for traders and entrepreneurs. The port of Antwerp has had its fair share of challenges over the years, ranging from revolutions to World Wars, but these hardships have not prevented its continued growth.
- Antwerp will be the first port to have a hydrogen powered tug.
- Antwerp has been taking action to improve the living experience of its inhabitants.
- Antwerp plans to achieve a modal shift from cars to more sustainable methods and a better energy and materials/ environmental management by 2030. All of this is to achieve their final goals of becoming climate neutral by 2050.
Interests and Future Goals
One thing is clear, Antwerp invests in smart technology to make city life agreeable and safe. To put this into practice Antwerp created a living lab ‘Antwerp Smart Zone’ in 2017. In the Sint-Andries district, businesses were able to test their innovative solutions and technologies in a real urban environment. By using smart sensors and wireless communication systems the city stimulated behavioural changes for a safer and healthier city. A few examples? Traffic lights with a countdown function, drones that assist emergency services and smart street lighting that reduces light pollution. After evaluation and adjusting, these ideas are now ready for implementation in the rest of the city but also in other (international) cities. Antwerp commits itself to install more of these city labs in other districts. The goal? To prepare itself today for the dreams of the future.
