Port of Rotterdam and Naturalis Partner on Ambitious Plan to Restore Biodiversity Across the Rhine–Meuse Delta

Photo: Port of Rotterdam Authority

(IN BRIEF)  The Port of Rotterdam Authority has launched its Nature Vision 2025–2050, outlining a roadmap for integrating ecological restoration into every level of its operations and development. Partnering with the Naturalis Biodiversity Center, the Port aims to become a net positive port that enhances biodiversity and environmental quality in the Rhine–Meuse Delta. The strategy involves nature-inclusive development, such as at the Maasvlakte Zuid railway yard, and setting ecological standards for future projects. It focuses on nine characteristic landscapes within and around the port, with actions to support migratory birds, pollinators, and stronger ecological connectivity. Driven by social responsibility rather than regulation, the plan underscores the Port’s commitment to balance economic progress with environmental stewardship through broad collaboration across sectors.

(PRESS RELEASE) ROTTERDAM, 29-Oct-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — The Port of Rotterdam Authority has unveiled its Nature Vision 2025–2050, a long-term strategy that aims to blend industrial growth with environmental restoration across the Rhine–Meuse Delta. Developed in partnership with the Naturalis Biodiversity Center, the vision reflects the Port Authority’s ambition to evolve into a “net positive” port—one that not only limits environmental impact but actively contributes to the health and diversity of its surrounding ecosystems.

At the heart of the plan is the goal of embedding nature and biodiversity into every aspect of the Port Authority’s decision-making and operations. This includes encouraging companies throughout the port area to take their own initiatives in support of ecological improvement and adopting nature-inclusive practices as the norm for all future developments. A notable example is the Maasvlakte Zuid railway yard (EMZ), which is being constructed with a focus on integrating natural features such as dune vegetation, amphibian ponds, and bird breeding pontoons, forming a unique blend of coastal and dune habitats.

The Nature Vision sets out how the Port Authority will work with partners to enhance key environmental conditions—improving soil and water quality while reducing pollution caused by light, noise, and waste. Eric van der Schans, Director of Environmental Management, highlighted the organisation’s broader mission: “The Port of Rotterdam Authority recognises its responsibility to contribute to a better living and working environment for everyone in and around the port area. Restoration of nature and biodiversity is an important part of this.”

Crucially, this initiative stems not from regulatory pressures but from a strong sense of social responsibility. “We are not doing this to comply with regulations,” Van der Schans added. “We believe a strong economy and a healthy environment reinforce each other. This Nature Vision provides direction for ensuring the Port of Rotterdam can continue to grow in balance with its surroundings.”

The Nature Vision identifies nine distinct landscape types within and around the port, including tidal, dune, and coastal areas. For each landscape, specific goals have been established—such as creating safe resting areas for migratory birds, improving habitats for pollinators like bees and butterflies, and strengthening ecological corridors that connect the port to nearby natural areas.

Photo: Marc Nolte

Koos Biesmeijer, Scientific Director at the Naturalis Biodiversity Center, emphasised the importance of this collaboration: “Nature can really use our help. This Nature Vision focuses entirely on nature positivity in the Port of Rotterdam Authority and its network partners. With it, the port becomes an important place for nature, and the Port Authority a catalyst for nature-positive action in Rotterdam and beyond.”

The Port of Rotterdam Authority stresses that realising these ambitions will require close cooperation with government bodies, environmental groups, and businesses. Links will be made with existing nature projects, including tidal park initiatives and North Sea ecological developments, supported through the Port Environment Fund or other dedicated partnerships that align with the Nature Vision’s objectives. A translated version of the Nature Vision will soon be available to the public.

Media Contact:
Tel: +31 (0)10 252 10 10

SOURCE: Port of Rotterdam