On 12 September 2025, the Royal Thai Embassy in Brussels organised a study visit to the Sponge City Project in Antwerp for members of the Team Thailand in Brussels, as part of the 6th Team Thailand’s meeting of fiscal year 2025.

The delegation received a briefing from Mr. Jeroen Pasmans, Project Manager at AG Vespa, on the development of the Sponge Antwerp project, which has transformed a former harbour and parking area into a public park with a strong focus on innovative water and environmental management. The project features an underground water reservoir of more than 7,000 cubic metres, connected to a smart buffer system that can adjust water levels in anticipation of heavy rainfall, and reinforced flood barriers along the Scheldt River raised by 90 centimetres to protect against future sea level rise and storm surges. These measures are designed to safeguard the city against flooding for up to 100 years.

Beyond environmental resilience, the project also enhances community well-being through the creation of collective gardens, playgrounds, artistic fountains, and public squares such as the Watergate Square for community events. It also incorporates long-term planning for urban greenery, ensuring that large trees can grow sustainably for generations to come. Sponge Antwerp is regarded as one of the largest sponge city initiatives in Belgium, showcasing how climate adaptation, disaster prevention, and improved quality of life can be integrated seamlessly into urban development.