Respect for monuments and nature

When building Klooster Westerhûs, we paid attention not only to aesthetics, but also to the preservation of the monumental farmhouse and the archaeologically valuable subsoil of the mound. We believe that respecting our history and environment is the basis for a sustainable project.

Sustainable construction methods and materials

An important aspect of our project is the reuse of materials. By integrating existing elements into the new construction, we reduce the ecological footprint. For example, there are used tiles on the roof of the farmhouse, the parking lot was constructed with the old barn grates from the farmhouse.

In addition, we have invested in modern technologies, such as the installation of 143 solar panels. This makes us completely gasless and contributes to lower energy needs. In the parking lot we have installed two charging stations for electric cars.

Water management

Reusing rainwater. At Klooster Westerhûs, we have set up a clever system for rainwater collection. We use the water we collect from our roof for toilets, washing machines and outdoor faucets. This is consistent with our philosophy of economizing natural resources.

Sustainable wastewater management. Our approach doesn't stop with construction. We treat our wastewater ourselves in a large septic tank (IBA), which helps us further reduce our impact on the environment. We consciously choose ecologically responsible cleaning products and hygiene products. We ask our guests to respect these principles and participate in our sustainability policy.

Sustainable waste management

Our approach does not stop at construction. We treat our wastewater ourselves in a large septic tank (IBA), which helps us further reduce our impact on the environment. We consciously choose ecologically responsible cleaning products and hygiene products. We ask our guests to respect these principles and participate in our sustainability policy.

Conscious choices for a green future

At Nijkleaster, we believe that every small step counts. We encourage our guests to make sustainable choices, such as purchasing ecological products, like soap from Zeepfabriek Suver. Together we can contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable world.

GreenChurches

Nijkleaster actively participates in the organization GroeneKerken. GroeneKerken targets all church and faith communities that want to actively engage in sustainability, social justice and greening their own community. In addition, GreenChurches is a network of faith communities learning from each other. We try to live as green as possible at Monastery Westerhus. For example, the gardens are planted with organic flowers and shrubs, a mixture of organic grass seed has been used in which butterfly and bee flowers are visible, 

Future plans

Sustainability is an ongoing process. For example, we are also still developing a food garden and using batteries to store solar energy. And a whole lot more.....