On 28 November 2025, scientists, policymakers and civil society organisations gathered at The Green Village in Delft to explore how knowledge and practice can better reinforce each other in tackling air quality issues in the Rotterdam-Rijnmond region.

The central question of the morning was how knowledge institutions and civil society partners can better find common ground in tackling regional air quality issues – not only today, but also in the longer term.

From knowledge to collaboration

After a joint kick-off, the discussion was opened with inspiring pitches about regional knowledge needs, science in the city, and modelling and data by Alexander Los, Bas Mijling, and Rebecca Leenman. This created a shared starting point for the follow-up discussions.

In working sessions on citizen science and modelling & data, participants then discussed in smaller groups what is already happening, what is still missing and where there are concrete opportunities for collaboration. This approach revealed how much knowledge and initiative already exists, but also where connection and coordination are needed.

Building on existing initiatives

The session on citizen science focused on the many local measurement initiatives in the region. At the same time, shared challenges were discussed, such as reaching diverse target groups, managing expectations and organising sustainable engagement.

The discussions on modelling and data also highlighted the need for better links: between models and measurements, between science and policy, and between technical insights and social issues relating to health and quality of life.

A joint next step

The morning was characterised above all by enthusiasm for continuing to work together. In the concluding discussion, possible next steps were explored, ranging from joint research proposals and student assignments to the development of a shared knowledge agenda.

The Climate Action Programme and the Resilient Delta initiative explicitly view this event as a starting point. The agreement to meet again in six months’ time underlines the ambition to deepen and sustain this collaboration – step by step, in close cooperation with social partners and residents of the region.