118 - Floating Structures: Toward a Climate Resilient Future

JELLE VEDDER, CO-FOUNDER OF BARTELS AND VEDDER

‍Today on the podcast, we have the pleasure of speaking with Jelle Vedder, Co-Founder of Bartels and Vedder. Jelle combines technical expertise in mechanical engineering and business administration with a focus on climate-resilient floating solutions. As the director of Aqua Life Nederland bv and co-founder of Bartels & Vedder, he leads groundbreaking projects like the Floating Ferry Terminal in Malaysia and Schoonschip in Amsterdam. Emphasizing "creating by cooperating," Jelle drives collaborative, sustainable engineering innovations that redefine the future of floating structures.

‍In this episode, Jelle shares his expertise in floating structures, exploring their critical role in addressing climate resilience and urban density. He traces the journey of floating buildings from ancient concepts to innovative, sustainable solutions for repurposing urban spaces like old city harbors. Jelle delves into the regulatory challenges these structures face globally, emphasizing the importance of adaptive guidelines and cross-departmental collaboration. The conversation highlights his commitment to advancing sustainable architecture, advocating for clearer regulations, and showcasing how grassroots initiatives can catalyze systemic change within the construction industry.