We have chosen to showcase this work in an exhibition of the same name – Walk the Talk – at both Campus Valla and Campus Norrköping.
The exhibition is public, free of charge, and accessible all year round. Follow the exhibition pathway by following the points marked on the map at each campus.
The Exhibition Walk the talk - Station Water, Campus Valla. Photo credit LiU-Tryck
Water from roofs and gutters on the properties around the park is led by pipes to the ponds and stream. The long route through the University Park means that the nitrogen content of the water is reduced naturally. The ponds in the park are used as a form of “retention reservoir”. The water passes through the vegetation at the ponds before being released into the natural world at Slestadbäcken. The slightly lower rate of run-off further decreases the level of nitrogen in the water. Rather than leading the water directly into Slestadbäcken, each property owner looks after water purification on-site.
Not all the water, however, is returned to the natural world: some is used to irrigate the park. A pumping station at one end of the stream allows the flow of water and water levels in the ponds to be regulated. Water is also collected from surrounding water courses and lakes, in order to secure a sufficient volume of water for the project.
Managing surface water in this way is an environmental investment that contributes to a naturally beautiful place. The water courses bring life to green areas, ensure healthy vegetation and attract birds, butterflies and other animals.
The property industry accounts for nearly 40% of total energy use in society, and unceasing work with energy efficiency is necessary. Akademiska Hus is one of Sweden’s largest property companies and is working to make a difference in the field of environmental care, in the long-term and in a sustainable manner.
The Kåkenhus Building on Campus Norrköping is home to a piece of cultural history. The power station supplied electricity to the building, produced using energy from the river through Norrköping, Motala Ström.
Energy creates opportunities. This is what water power did during the peak period of Norrköping’s industrial era. And today, energy is one of our most important sources of development.
What was the significance of energy in earlier days, and what is it today? What measures is Akademiska Hus taking to reduce energy consumption, and how is it working towards a sustainable society together with Linköping University?
Water fall in Motala ström, Campus Norrköping. Photo credit: Thor Balkhed
