Facing increasing challenges from climate change, cities across Europe are embracing innovative approaches to urban design. In Belgium and the Netherlands, a growing movement is literally uprooting the concrete, with municipalities and residents removing millions of tiles and paving stones to create more green spaces. This initiative, dubbed “tegelwippen,” addresses both rising temperatures and the strain on aging drainage infrastructure, signaling a broader shift toward climate resilience in urban planning.
Belgian and Dutch Cities Remove Millions of Tiles in Green Infrastructure Push
Several cities in Belgium and the Netherlands are undertaking large-scale tile removal projects as part of efforts to improve water management and create more green spaces. The initiative, known as “tegelwippen” – literally “tile lifting” – is gaining momentum as communities seek solutions to address increasing urban heat and flooding.
More than 1.5 million tiles have been removed in Flanders, the Dutch-speaking region of Belgium, with the Netherlands surpassing that number, according to recent reports. The projects involve residents and municipalities removing paving stones and concrete from yards and public spaces, replacing them with greenery.
Leuven has emerged as a leader in the Flemish region, being named “Vlaams Kampioen Tegelwippen” – Flemish Champion of Tile Lifting – for the second consecutive year. The city is actively encouraging residents to participate in the initiative. Gent is also making significant strides, having removed more than 30,000 square meters of tiles this year alone.
Izegem and Boom are also among the top-performing cities in Flanders. The widespread adoption of tile removal highlights a growing awareness of the benefits of permeable surfaces in urban environments. This trend underscores a shift towards more sustainable and climate-resilient urban planning.
The tile removal projects aim to reduce stormwater runoff, alleviate pressure on sewer systems, and mitigate the urban heat island effect. By replacing impermeable surfaces with vegetation, cities can improve water absorption, create habitats for biodiversity, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents.
