From shelter to future-proof real estate: COA anchors sustainability
The Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA) manages reception locations throughout the Netherlands and wants to structurally embed sustainability in its real estate strategy, relevant to any organization with a large, complex portfolio.
From separate pilots to one sustainable course at COA
Many pilots and separate initiatives were running, while COA wanted to target resources within the European AMIF project "Sustainable and Hybrid Reception" (2022-2025). The challenge: one overarching approach that brings coherence, ownership and assurance, so that what works can quickly scale up.
Result
Kyden provided program management for about twenty initiatives and monitored progress, coherence and budget-from ambition to action, securing knowledge and organizing ownership. Specifically, we brought in line:- Energy (PV, battery pilots and solar boilers in Almere, among others), Nature (nature scans, blueprint nature-inclusive sites, outdoor spaces in Almelo, Luttelgeest and Enschede),
- Circularity (tender COACH/circular housing, circular materials in azc Katwijk, modular furnishings in Winterswijk) and
- Social sustainability (collaboration with TU Delft, research into social anchoring, including multifunctional space in Leersum).
About COA
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The Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA) is responsible for the reception and guidance of asylum seekers in the Netherlands. The organization provides safe housing, support and preparation for residence in the Netherlands or return. In this way COA ensures a humane, stable and well-organized reception chain. |
Start your success story
Have you been inspired by COA's story? And do you want to grow your business? Please contact Wouter van Twillert.
Hitched lenses for transformation
People
Sustainability
Impact
COA now has a coherent approach, clear priorities and demonstrably effective use of resources; board and management have more control over progress and impact. Phase 1 expires at the end of 2025; another AMIF grant has been awarded for 2026-2028. Based on phase 1 analysis, lessons have been secured and improvements implemented for the new tranche acceleration with lasting sustainability gains.
Quote client
"Kyden's people take initiative, are committed and curious. That, combined with knowledge and experience in sustainability, organization and innovation, really added value to the project."
