Environmental Sustainability of Water Pumping Stations

This thesis explores how sustainability assessment methods and circular economy (CE) principles can be used to improve the environmental performance of water pumping stations in the Netherlands. As climate change, ageing infrastructure, and new policy goals put pressure on the water sector, the study uses a mixed-methods approach. This includes literature review, expert interviews, material passports, and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) modelling using DuBoCalc and the Environmental Cost Indicator (MKI/ECI). Two case studies are analysed: the large-scale De Drie Delfzijlen boezem station and the small Noordeinde- en Geerpolder polder station. For each, 11 design alternatives are evaluated. The results show that energy use during the operation phase is the main environmental impact for larger stations, while materials play a bigger role in smaller ones. Sustainable measures—such as geopolymer concrete, reused materials, and renewable energy—can reduce total environmental impact by up to 50%. Material passports are introduced to track the use and reuse potential of materials throughout the station’s life. However, the study also finds that current tools like DuBoCalc have limitations due to outdated data and fixed assumptions. The thesis recommends including sustainability early in the design process and improving data quality to support better decisions in water infrastructure projects.