Getting to know our neighbours personally, listening carefully, understanding what matters to them and responding more effectively to their needs — in a nutshell, that is why we have been present at several local markets around the airport in recent months. Most recently at the Van der Pek Market in Amsterdam.
‘Are you our neighbour? Talk to us!’ Anyone passing our market stall could hardly miss it — we wanted to start a conversation. And visitors to the Van der Pek Market in Amsterdam were more than willing to engage.
Amsterdammers are known for speaking their minds and saying exactly what they think. This led to direct and honest conversations; sometimes confronting, but often surprisingly constructive as well.
We spoke with people about topics that matter to our neighbours, such as noise, nitrogen emissions, ultrafine particles and the future of Schiphol.
Alongside concerns and frustrations, visitors asked questions, recognised room for nuance and demonstrated mutual understanding. It was a successful day filled with meaningful encounters and valuable insights.