Launch green disability care: Nature as a source of health, connection and sustainability

On July 11, 2025, Green Disability Care was officially launched. Disability care organizations are joining forces to work towards a green, inclusive, and future-proof care sector, in collaboration with the Dutch Association of Disability Care (VGN), Nature For Health (NFH), and IVN Nature Education. This movement aligns with the ambitions of the Green Deal Sustainable Care 3.0, the Nature-Inclusive Collective, and the Disability Care Vision 2030.

Green Disability Care focuses on greening the grounds and buildings of care organizations, as well as the gardens of care homes, and actively using nature — by residents, families, neighbors, and professionals alike. This leads to improved well-being and job satisfaction, better health, and increased biodiversity. In this way, nature supports care — and care supports nature.

A Growing Movement of Pioneers

The movement is powered by a partnership of disability care organizations — the so-called Green Pioneers. VGN, NFH, and IVN are the core partners in this alliance. By working together, sharing knowledge, and pooling resources, this green movement will become stronger and more effective.

Five Pillars for Short-Term Impact

To ensure focused impact in the coming years, Green Disability Care is built on five key pillars:

More care in nature – At least 10% of treatments and daily activities take place outdoors, with special attention to misunderstood behavior and positive health.

Nature for vitality – 15% of employees actively work on their vitality through contact with nature; clients and staff are actively engaged in this process.

Green connection with the neighborhood – Care locations seek collaboration with local communities, for example through joint green projects or accessible walking routes.

Improving the physical environment – Care locations are becoming greener, cooler, more biodiverse, and climate-friendly.

Knowledge sharing and research – Pioneers exchange experiences, share best practices, and stimulate sector-wide research and collaboration.

Join the Partnership?

We invite all care organizations that identify with this vision to join the Green Disability Care Partnership. By doing so, they contribute to a future where nature and care go hand in hand, and efforts toward greening are strengthened.

Support through the “Green for Health” Program

On July 11, 2025, the Green for Health Program was also opened to disability care organizations. This program, funded by the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS), offers targeted support for greening two large and three smaller disability care organizations.

More Information

For more information about the Partnership and the opportunities offered by the Green for Health Program, visit:

https://www.ivn.nl/aanbod/groene-ggz/groene-gehandicaptenzorg/