Book LVI, Heermoes en Zevenblad

The Heermoes en Zevenblad Foundation is dedicated to strengthening ecological principles in spatial and environmental policy, with a focus on promoting urban nature and sustainable living environments from its base in Groningen.

Objective:

The Heermoes en Zevenblad Foundation aims to promote a living environment in which ecology forms the basis for policymaking, with a focus on urban ecology in the municipality of Groningen and – where possible – beyond. The foundation strives for a coherent and concrete nature policy that contributes to biodiversity, climate adaptation, and the integration of ecological principles into living, working, and well-being, recognizing nature’s intrinsic value and approaching it as an interconnected system.

Activities:

    •    Critically analyzing and evaluating plans from governments, civil society organizations, and businesses for their impact on nature, biodiversity, and the living environment, using ecological expertise, administrative and political experience, and a broad knowledge network.

    •    Stimulating public debate and citizen engagement on issues related to nature and livability, including through the use of art and culture as tools for reflection.

    •    Participating in consultation structures, conducting research, publishing opinion pieces, and connecting relevant stakeholders and organizations to make ecology a guiding principle in spatial planning.

    •    Developing and deploying a digital tool that provides insight into policy initiatives concerning nature, biodiversity, sustainability, and climate, contributing to transparency and strengthening citizen participation in ecological and spatial issues.

The foundation is expected to become active by the end of 2025