In recent years, more and more people have been moving away from traditional lifestyles in search of sustainable and community-based housing solutions.

The story of CVEG Ecodorp Zuiderveld began in 2019 in Nijmegen, when a group of like-minded individuals came together with a shared vision: to create a place where sustainability, inclusion, and solidarity would be the pillars of a new way of living.

The founders aimed to establish a community in harmony with Nature, minimizing ecological impact while experimenting with new forms of cohabitation. Thanks to support from public and private funding, the project took shape, attracting more and more people eager to redefine urban living.

A Model for Urban Sustainability

What makes CVEG Ecodorp Zuiderveld unique is its innovative approach—this is not an ecovillage isolated in nature, but rather an urban community experiment proving that sustainable living is possible without giving up the benefits of city life.

The houses are built using eco-friendly materials and bioconstruction techniques, ensuring energy efficiency and minimal consumption of natural resources. With solar panels and an advanced rainwater harvesting system, residents significantly reduce their environmental footprint while enjoying all modern comforts.

But sustainability here is not just about the environment—it’s about human connection and cooperation. Shared spaces are designed to foster relationships, creating a true community where people support and grow together.

Innovative Sustainability Projects

At CVEG Ecodorp Zuiderveld, sustainability is not just a theory—it is a tangible reality. The village serves as a living laboratory, constantly evolving and implementing new practices.

Residents cultivate a permaculture garden, growing fresh, local fruits and vegetables, promoting a healthy and self-sufficient diet. The community orchard is another symbol of this philosophy—a space where Nature provides, and the community harvests together in a spirit of collaboration.

The village’s commitment to sustainability is also evident in construction techniques. Homes are built with biodegradable and recycled materials, striking the perfect balance between innovation and tradition.

Energy independence is another strength of this ecovillage. Solar panels generate renewable energy, powering both private homes and shared spaces. Here, energy autonomy is not just a goal—it’s a daily reality that demonstrates how technology can support a greener future.

A Community That Decides Together

One of the most fascinating aspects of CVEG Ecodorp Zuiderveld is its sociocratic governance system. There are no rigid hierarchies or single leaders—every community member has a voice in decision-making.

Through a consensus-based approach, choices are made collectively, ensuring that everyone’s needs and opinions are valued, creating a culture of trust and cooperation.

Collaboration and a Supportive Network

CVEG Ecodorp Zuiderveld is not an isolated scenario, disconnected from the outside world. On the contrary, the community actively collaborates with local and international organizations, participating in research projects, educational events, and ecological transition initiatives.

These partnerships enable the village to grow, experiment, and share its model with other communities across Europe, contributing to an ever-expanding global network of sustainable living initiatives.

A Replicable Model for the Future

At its core, CVEG Ecodorp Zuiderveld is a living experiment with a clear mission: to prove that changing the way we inhabit cities is possible.

Over time, the ecovillage has become a point of reference for those dreaming of a greener, more sustainable future, attracting interest from communities and cities eager to replicate its model.

The future of the project is ambitious: to expand initiatives, involve more people, and prove that living in harmony with the environment is a viable choice even in an urban setting.

In conclusion

In the heart of Nijmegen, Netherlands, CVEG Ecodorp Zuiderveld is proving that a different way of living in cities is possible. With a strong community promoting cooperation, sustainability, and self-sufficiency, this urban ecovillage blends innovation and tradition to create a model that can be replicated worldwide.