Dutch City Turns Bus Stops into Bee Stops

This is part of the city of Utrecht’s commitment to sustainability.

Aug 29, 2019

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Dutch City Turns Bus Stops into Bee Stops | This is part of the city of Utrecht’s commitment to sustainability.

The bus stops in the Dutch city of Utrecht are as beautiful as they are practical. Now, 316 bus stops feature a green roof that adds some vibrancy to the city, while also storing rainwater, capturing dust, and providing some much needed shade during the warmer months according to Bright Vibes.

Utrecht’s latest venture into more sustainable solutions is good for their honey and bumblebee population who are attracted to the sedum plants on the roof. To maintain this thriving ecosystem, municipal workers drive around in electric vehicles, tending to the mini gardens.

Another one of the biggest perks to come out of these green stops is the improved air quality. Smoking, cars, and toxins all contribute to polluting the air we breathe. These eco-friendly public spaces act as an air purifier for city inhabitants, though humans aren’t the only beneficiaries here.

Utrecht has also made great strives towards moving their transportation system away from gas guzzling buses. The city replaced 10 diesel buses for electric powered versions and plans to have only CO2 neutral buses on the road by 2028. 

The buses have a system that records the driver's efficiency and rider’s comfort levels. drivers can win prizes Based on how safe and comfortable the ride was.

The city is also one of the most bicycle friendly places in the world. Roads have been redesigned to give cyclists priority and there is a new state-of-the-art bicycle 6,000 space parking garage that is located underneath the Utrecht central train station.

Utrecht offers incentives to keep residents energized and motivated to live greener lives. There are even incentives for people to transform their roofs into green roofs too.

Maintaining the goals of an eco-friendlier city takes cooperation and Utrecht is leading the way to protect our environment. 

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REBECCA WOJNO, CONTRIBUTOR
Rebecca is passionate about reading, cooking, and learning about people doing good in the world. She especially loves writing about wellness, personal growth, and relationships.