Volt believes that Amsterdam has what it takes to emerge stronger from the current climate crisis. But we must dare to make choices and act. We’re facing a serious challenge in transitioning to a society in which sustainability is the norm.
Whether it is hot and dry summer days or torrential rainfall in the autumn, the extensive greening of the city is the way to make the capital resilient to the effects of climate change. The municipality is already working hard to make a greener capital possible. However, Volt believes such a project can only succeed if everyone works towards the same goal.
Three-quarters of the greenhouse gas we emit comes from energy use. To ensure a smooth transition from fossil fuels to green energy, we need to make some fundamental choices in municipal policy.
Wind and solar energy complement each other in the sustainable energy mix of the future. Volt supports the placement of wind turbines at sea and in the industrial areas of the city. Beyond that, Volt doesn’t want new wind turbines in the other search zones, close to residential areas. The advantages of energy generation don’t stack up against the disadvantages for residents and nature. Instead, Volt raises the solar ambitions on available roofs.
With rising energy prices, it is now crucial to prevent precious heat from leaking out due to poor insulation. Energy poverty is a growing problem and deserves the full attention of the municipality to make the heat transition more inclusive. Volt wants to work on the insulation of houses by motivating home owners, tenants and proprietors for insulation. As an example, we’ll employ transparent sustainability demands adjusted for financial capacity and supportive measures inspired by the British “Home Energy Saving Programme”.
Ask Amsterdammers what annoys them most and rampant rubbish will be high on the list. The stench, vermin and unsightly appearance should be things of the past. We can also improve waste processing: let’s reduce urban waste incineration to a minimum and make reuse the norm.
A level playing field starts with clear rules. We want Amsterdam to remain an open and tolerant city. A city that effectively deals with intimidation, violence and crime. This requires an ongoing dialogue in society.
As far as Volt is concerned, the most crucial point in the debate about the Red Light District is to prevent the exploitation of sex workers and combat human trafficking. We want Amsterdam to cooperate with other European cities and parties to tackle networks that engage in human trafficking.
Volt has defined 5+1 fundamental challenges to be addressed in every European country and across Europe.
The 5 challenges are basically the same for every country, but implementation can be adapted to the national context and take into account local realities. The +1 challenge - our proposal to reform and strengthen the EU - is identical in all countries.
Want to know more?
Climate change has a direct impact on the quality of life in the city. Therefore, sustainability must become the norm for Amsterdam. Volt aims to turn Amsterdam green, and make intelligent choices about our energy use while encouraging sustainable innovation.
Innovation starts with people. Volt 2wants well-being to be an essential driver of economic policy. Complex problems such as the housing crisis are a limiting factor on that wellbeing. A city that seeks balance won’t allow itself to be divided into winners and losers but focuses on the bigger picture and involves everyone in its success.
Real freedom is being able to be who you are and do what you’re good at. We want all Amsterdammers to have equal opportunities, to restore trust between citizens and government and reduce differences between neighbourhoods. Volt strives for an inclusive, diverse city where all Amsterdammers feel both heard and represented.
Volt wants to ensure a bright future for future generations and give them the opportunity to realise their dreams and ambitions. This is only possible with accessible education for everyone in the city, regard- less of their postal code.
Amsterdammers should have a say in the most critical choices that affect their lives and future. Volt is also committed to supporting and protecting our vibrant, di- verse culture.
European cooperation makes Amsterdam stronger, and Amsterdam makes Europe stronger. Volt aims to make Amsterdam one of the leading cities in sustainable innovation - a paradise for sustainability best practices. Just as we get ideas from other European cities, we want other cities to look to Amsterdam for inspiration.
