Futureproofed Talk: key takeaways from our 12th annual climate event

Our 12th Futureproofed Talk burst with thought-provoking keynotes, hands-on workshops, and lively discussions as city leaders and climate practitioners came together to turn ambitious climate goals into tangible progress. Held at the Brussels headquarters of our partner Sweco Belgium, this year's event offered attendees a unique opportunity to collaborate closely with both our SaaS experts and on-the-ground engineers.

Noëmie Van den Bon
City Climate Coach
November 14, 2024

This year's Futureproofed Talk centered on bridging the gap between climate goals and tangible action, with a deep dive into climate financing solutions. Through keynotes and a panel discussion, the event explored diverse pathways for local governments to secure funding for impactful climate initiatives.

Panelists (from left to right): Serge de Gheldere (moderator), Filip Coenen (Financial architect, Leuven 2030), Piet Colruyt (Impact investor, Impact House), Fedra Vanhuyse (Head of Division: Societies, Climate and Policy Support, Stockholm Environment Institute)

The panel experts offered three key insights

During the panel on financing climate initiatives, our experts offered insights from three distinct perspectives, highlighting diverse pathways for public authorities to secure climate funding.

  1. Fedra Vanhuyse emphasized the strength of place-based climate financing, tapping into local, community-driven funding sources.
  2. Piet Colruyt explained the potential of partnering with impact investors who align with a city's climate goals.
  3. Filip Coenen showcased the success of mission-focused financing models like Leuven 2030, which provides stable, targeted support for climate action.

These insights highlighted that innovative climate financing can take many forms, from local collaboration to structured funding organizations.

To end the panel, we asked each panelist for their top piece of advice on climate financing:

  • Fedra Vanhuyse: “I’d like to share a quote from Doris Lessing, Nobel Prize winner for Literature in 2007: ‘Whatever you’re meant to do, do it now. The conditions are always impossible.’ So, don’t wait—just start acting.”
  • Piet Colruyt: “My takeaway is to be aware that there are different silos of capital, all looking for good projects. And if you add impact into the equation, much more is possible. Capital is available; sometimes you just have to look for it.”
  • Filip Coenen: "If I put this into my context of finance: look for business models. You will find something that can return value in some way, and it can be used as leverage to create other things.”

Keynote on the power of geodata with from left to right: Lout Kuiper and Bas Aumer from Sweco Netherlands

Geodata: A Game-Changer for Greener, More Biodiverse Cities

During the Futureproofed Talk keynote, Bas Aumer and Lout Kuiper revealed how geodata is revolutionizing urban planning for more sustainable, nature-friendly cities. By harnessing the power of geospatial data, cities can:

  • Map green spaces and biodiversity hotspots
  • Identify prime areas for improvement
  • Integrate geospatial analysis directly into urban planning
  • Design strategies to boost biodiversity
  • Optimize green infrastructure for maximum impact
  • Continuously monitor the results of their interventions

This geodata-driven approach empowers cities to create thriving urban ecosystems that benefit both people and nature. Integrating these powerful insights unlocks a future-proof path to greener, more biodiverse communities.

Insights from the workshops

Alongside inspiring words from Serge de Gheldere, a user-focused feedback round with product designer Rafaël Martins, keynotes from Piet Colruyt, Bas Aumer and Lout Kuiper and the engaging panel discussion, Futureproofed Talk once again brought attendees directly into the action with interactive workshops. Each session encouraged participants to dive into practical challenges, collaborate on solutions, and exchange insights.

These hands-on sessions were designed not just to spark new ideas, but to equip attendees with the tools and know-how needed to drive impactful climate initiatives in their communities. By working through real-world scenarios, participants left the event armed with the insights and resources to turn climate plans into tangible progress.

A toolbox for adaptation planning

Municipalities have access to a wide array of tools and data to support climate adaptation, though navigating these resources can be complex and time-intensive. The Climate Adaptation Scan, developed by the Flemish Environmental Agency, is specifically designed to simplify this process for smaller cities and communities that may lack specialized expertise. This tool helps local governments anticipate future climate impacts, plan for potential changes, and guide adaptation strategies.

Within the Climate Adaptation Scan, the Plan tool offers seven scenarios with recommended measures, while the Project tool allows users to visualize critical elements—such as trees, buildings, and traffic—on a map. The focus remains on adaptation: adjusting to the impacts of climate change.

Three key climate parameters are addressed:

  • Drought: The tool identifies at-risk natural areas, including vulnerable agricultural zones. Managing an increase in drought days is also a priority.
  • Heat: Evaluations include minimum and maximum perceived temperatures, factoring in urban density and layout. Heat stress thresholds are set to ensure that at least 50% of city areas remain within a safe temperature range.
  • Water: Metrics include average water depth and the proportion of buildings at risk of flooding, with thresholds tailored to each city’s specific needs.

With city-specific indicators, the goal is to significantly reduce the projected climate impact by 2050, supporting municipalities in developing effective, targeted adaptation plans. The Climate Adaptation Scan tool helps visualize the actions needed to enhance climate resilience.

A best practice for local governments is to actively involve neighborhoods in co-creating climate-adaptive designs. This can be done using visual elements, such as the example shown below, featuring 3D-printed models of buildings and cards that represent climate adaptation measures like wadis, de-paving, underground infiltration, infiltration basins, weirs, green roofs, and natural heat shields.

Workshop: a toolbox for adaptation planning

Local long-term renovation strategy for private housing

At this workshop, experts emphasized the critical role of local governments in addressing climate change through targeted renovation strategies for private housing. Buildings are responsible for approximately 36% of the EU's energy-related greenhouse gas emissions and consume about 40% of its energy. Achieving the EU's climate-neutrality goal by 2050 necessitates substantial reductions in these emissions.

However, municipalities often face challenges due to a lack of structured tools and strategies to effectively tackle this issue. This gap underscores the urgent need for a Local Long-Term Renovation Strategy (LLTRS), providing municipalities with a structured, actionable pathway toward sustainable housing.

Workshop: local long-term renovation strategy for private housing

The five-step roadmap to a strong local long-term renovation strategy for private housing

The workshop outlined a five-step roadmap to guide municipalities in creating a long-term renovation strategy that aligns with both EU and local goals:

  1. Screening: Assess the current state of local housing, integrating socio-economic and energy data, to build a 2050 vision.
  2. Backcasting: Using the 2050 target as the end goal, set a clear pathway of milestones, year by year, to track and drive progress.
  3. Local tasks: Translate the overall goals into specific local policy tasks—whether city-wide, focused on certain housing types, or targeted by neighborhood.
  4. Measures: Identify and implement actionable measures, such as regulatory support, financial incentives, and direct guidance for homeowners, to break down common barriers to renovation.
  5. Anchoring and iteration: Embed the strategy within local policy plans and establish periodic evaluations to adjust and improve the approach over time.

Participants also discussed innovative approaches, like “Design-Build-Finance-Maintain” models, to overcome financial hurdles and enhance energy efficiency in multi-residential buildings.

Why a local long-term renovation strategy for private housing matters

This workshop highlighted that while regional and national policies are crucial, local governments are uniquely positioned to understand and act on community needs. A well-developed LLTRS enables cities and municipalities to drive renovations effectively, supporting homeowners through tailored policies that make sustainable living more accessible and impactful.

As climate officers and municipal partners look to advance these strategies, they’re not just contributing to emissions reductions—they’re building more resilient, livable communities in the process.

Water in urban areas: the strength of blue-green corridors

In this workshop, participants explored the potential of blue-green corridors as an integrated approach to managing water, mitigating heat, and supporting biodiversity in urban areas. Amid growing water stress and shifting rainfall patterns due to climate change, blue-green corridors present nature-based solutions to urban challenges. These corridors integrate water management with green infrastructure to address flood risks, improve urban cooling, and create ecological networks that support local biodiversity.

Workshop: water in urban areas: the strength of blue-green corridors

Participants reviewed 10 guiding principles for designing effective blue-green corridors. These included making water visible, restoring lost habitats, and using historical and climate projections to guide planning. Project examples, like the redevelopment of Hoboken’s industrial site and Turnhout’s blue-green urban plan, highlighted real-world applications and the importance of collaboration, long-term vision, and flexible design.

During a practical exercise, participants applied the principles to two sites—Walhain, focusing on flood mitigation, and Vilvoorde, addressing heat stress and water retention. Using maps to identify flood-prone areas, urban heat islands, and fragmented habitats, participants designed strategies incorporating rain gardens, green corridors, and tree planting to reduce runoff and enhance urban cooling.

This workshop emphasized that blue-green corridors require a multidisciplinary approach and long-term planning to effectively adapt urban spaces to climate challenges, fostering healthier, more resilient communities.

A transition approach for industrial parks and economic districts

This workshop examined how industrial parks and economic districts can be transformed to support sustainable development. Participants, including urban planners, climate officers, and architects, explored practical approaches to creating greener, more resilient business spaces through a phased transition strategy.

Key insights and steps for transitioning industrial parks included:

  • Phase 1: Economic and stakeholder assessment
    The first step is identifying economic opportunities within industrial zones and engaging relevant stakeholders, such as companies, municipalities, and community groups. This phase focuses on aligning economic growth with sustainable practices through collaboration and integrated planning.
  • Phase 2: Integrated spatial strategies
    Using multi-layered spatial planning, including water, soil, mobility, and energy considerations, this phase emphasizes strategies like economic interweaving and resource management. Case studies, such as the Oosteroever Circular District and Wommelgem-Ranst, provided examples of how mixed-use planning can benefit both industrial activities and local communities.
  • Phase 3: Action planning
    Developing a concrete action plan involves selecting effective instruments for implementing sustainable practices, such as water management systems, green corridors, and renewable energy networks. Collaborative energy and resource sharing among companies within industrial zones were also highlighted as key goals.
Workshop: a transition approach for industrial parks and economic disctricts

The workshop underscored that transitioning industrial zones is a complex, long-term process, requiring coordinated effort, strong governance, and early-stage engagement with both local government and industry stakeholders. Participants agreed that dismantling the traditional “silos” within planning and encouraging cross-sector collaboration are essential for achieving resilient, future-proofed industrial zones.

Driving sustainable mobility for climate-resilient communities

The "Sustainable Mobility Innovation Sprint" workshop focused on actionable steps that municipalities can take to build climate-resilient transportation systems, using the Futureproofed platform for guidance. Participants explored practical approaches like water canals to reduce road traffic, cycling highways, and mobility hubs while navigating challenges of local vs. regional implementation.

Key insights emerged

  1. Regional vs. local oversight: Large-scale projects, such as cycling highways and mobility hubs, require regional or national management to alleviate the financial and logistical burdens on individual municipalities.
  2. Data for stakeholder buy-in: Success hinges on data-backed advocacy. By presenting clear outcomes through pilot projects and case studies, municipalities can more effectively secure support from higher authorities and local communities.
  3. Community engagement: Incremental, step-by-step engagement fosters community buy-in, gradually overcoming resistance and encouraging local support for sustainable mobility initiatives.
Workshop: driving sustainable mobility for climate-resilient communities

Next steps for municipalities

  • Push for regional support: Municipalities should advocate for higher-level involvement in ambitious projects, emphasizing the need for appropriate funding.
  • Keep mobility on the agenda: Regular discussions can maintain momentum and awareness in council and community meetings.
  • Design flexible projects: Adaptable frameworks can address varying local challenges and community needs.

The workshop underscored that while sustainable mobility requires coordinated action, local governments are key to shaping solutions that resonate with community-specific needs.

Looking ahead: turning ideas into climate action

As we close another successful edition of Futureproofed Talk, the energy and enthusiasm from this year's event continue to fuel our commitment to practical, scalable climate solutions. We hope the insights, workshops, and networking moments have empowered participants to turn today’s ideas into tomorrow’s actions.

From financing climate initiatives and developing adaptive infrastructure to fostering sustainable mobility and transforming industrial zones, it’s clear that innovative, collaborative approaches are key to tackling the climate crisis. Thank you to everyone who joined us in driving forward the mission of building a resilient, sustainable future. We look forward to seeing you at next year’s Futureproofed Talk for more impactful discussions, insights, and action plans!

Stay informed

Would you like to be the first to hear about our future events? Leave your details via the form, and we’ll make sure you receive timely invitations to inspiring live or online events, along with other updates through our monthly newsletter.

Talk to an expert

Related articles

The latest news, technologies, and resources from our team.

CSRD: 3 key learnings for Novasol Chemicals exposed

As Novasol Chemicals adapted to the requirements of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), they uncovered three key insights that reshaped their approach to sustainability.
Bert Stoelen
October 28, 2024

Corporate Carbon Footprint: How to calculate and reduce your company’s carbon emissions

Your corporate carbon footprint is an important first step to understanding your company’s impact on the planet. Learn what a carbon footprint is, how to calculate it, and the steps to carbon reduction in your company.
Stef Vervaet
June 25, 2024

Carbon sequestration for smarter climate action

In our relentless pursuit to support cities in their battle against climate change, we are thrilled to unveil the latest addition to our dashboard graph: carbon sequestration data.
Ides Peeters
June 5, 2024

How carbon sequestration fits into your city’s climate plan

Explore how carbon sequestration transforms your city's climate goals. Learn its benefits for cleaner air, economy, and sustainability. Dive in now!
Ides Peeters
April 23, 2024

Corporate Sustainability Strategy: How To Develop It

A corporate sustainability strategy helps ensure that a business adapts to the sustainable economy of the future.
Steven Van Praet
April 21, 2024

The ABCs of Carbon Accounting | Futureproofed

What exactly is carbon accounting, why should you care, and how do you start ? Here’s everything you need to know (including a 7-step plan).
Siemon Peeters
March 30, 2024

Start futureproofing your business or industrial park. The time is now!

The business park of the future is sustainable and a great place to work and do business – and that comes with huge opportunities. How do you start the transition?
Julie Colback
May 8, 2023

PCAF: how to kickstart your journey

Kickstart your PCAF journey in 3 steps: determine your asset class, collect the relevant data, and then measure financed emissions. Read how we help.
Stef Vervaet
March 27, 2023

Why sustainability is an incredible business opportunity

Sustainability brings economic opportunities, plain and simple. And it strengthens the ties with all your stakeholders. Here’s how that works.
Serge de Gheldere
February 21, 2023

PCAF standard: financial leaders against climate change

The PCAF standard to disclose financed emissions inspires more and more banks, insurers, investors and other financial institutions to take climate action.
Stephanie Van Breedam
February 9, 2023

PCAF: 6 benefits of disclosing your financed emissions

Discover 6 benefits of disclosing you financed greenhouse gas emissions with the PCAF standard. Innovation, trust, compliance and more: here's you benefit.
Stephanie Van Breedam
February 9, 2023

Corporate Carbon Tax: The Impact On Business

A corporate carbon tax is looming on the horizon. This is what businesses need to know to prepare.
Stef Vervaet
October 4, 2022

50 global cities join in a unique collaboration between Futureproofed and WWF

50 cities, including Jakarta, Paris, Quito, Lund, Louisville and Istanbul, representing 80 million inhabitants are joining FutureproofedCities as part of the WWF’s One Planet City Challenge (OPCC). Collaboration is key to helping cities globally make the climate transition. Driving climate action is complex - and the best digital tools can help cities kickstart change
Serge de Gheldere
January 27, 2022

Crypto and climate change (guest blog by Diana Diaz Castro)

Guest writer Diana Diaz Castro discusses how to lower the impact of crypto on the climate, through innovative projects and measures.
Diana Diaz Castro
July 2, 2021

City Business Climate Alliance: Boosting Momentum For Climate Action

A city-business climate alliance offers solutions to accelerate climate action in cities. It opens up new opportunities for innovation and economic growth
Sander Graumans
April 27, 2021

European Green Deal: Setting The Course For A Sustainable Future

In this article we digest the complex policies and actions in a simple overview of the European Green Deal. We look at the goals, and impact on businesses.
Mieke Priem
April 20, 2021

D’Ieteren Immo: A sustainable real estate company driven by innovation

We’re proud to have partnered with D'Ieteren Immo to transform their sustainable real estate vision into a strategy and actionable steps.
Stephanie Van Breedam
April 9, 2021

Science Based Targets: moving towards a zero-carbon future

Science Based Targets is an initiative to help corporates reach a zero-carbon future and limit global warming through science-driven goals.
Mieke Priem
March 26, 2021

What is a Life Cycle Analysis? The basics of LCA explained.

What is a Life Cycle Analysis? An LCA is a powerful tool to use in evaluating and improving your corporate sustainability measures.
Stef Vervaet
March 18, 2021

Climate Change Is An Equality Issue

Climate change will impact the very social fabric of our societies - potentially undoing the progress we have made in making the world a mor
Siemon Peeters
March 9, 2021

SDGs for businesses: What are sustainable development goals?

Learn about Sustainable Development Goals, and how the impact of climate change is woven into all 17 SDGs. SDGs offer businesses huge growth
Siemon Peeters
February 17, 2021

How to finance climate adaptation measures

Cities struggle to finance their climate action adaptation measures and often have to work around common challenges like low financial returns.
Antonio Arce Romero
February 5, 2021

💰 How to finance climate adaptation measures

Cities struggle to finance their climate action adaptation measures and often have to work around common challenges like low financial retur
Antonio Arce Romero
February 2, 2021

A Medium City's Plan Of Action For Climate Change

Prioritizing climate actions is difficult, like in a growing city of 25k to 200k inhabitants. What are the profitable measures with significant CO2 impact?
Antonio Arce Romero
March 25, 2020

Climate Change Adaptation Strategies For Cities In 5 Steps

Do you feel that your city should start working on climate change adaptation strategies? Let us guide you through this 5-step journey.
Antonio Arce Romero
February 5, 2020
Man working at desk
Olivia Rhye
20 Jan 2024

UX review presentations

How do you create compelling presentations that wow your colleagues and impress your managers?
Man pinning images on wall
Olivia Rhye
20 Jan 2024

UX review presentations

How do you create compelling presentations that wow your colleagues and impress your managers?
Desk with computer
Olivia Rhye
20 Jan 2024

UX review presentations

How do you create compelling presentations that wow your colleagues and impress your managers?

Choose Futureproofed

Equip your business or city with the expertise and tools needed to build a more resilient and sustainable future.