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Could you introduce yourself and tell us more about your role, and how you got to know about the PALLAS Programme?
"My name is Marieke Klaver. I live in Alkmaar. I have studied civil engineering, road and water management engineering. Before starting with the PALLAS Programme, I worked at a large engineering firm for 25 years. From there, I got involved with the PALLAS project and worked on preparing the construction site for construction activities, such as the temporary access road, the environmental impact report, and permits. Since June 1, 2024, I have been fully dedicated to the PALLAS Programme as an environmental manager."

What does a typical workday look like for you?
“I do not have one. Every day is different. There are always documents to work on or meetings to attend. For example, I speak to local residents or government agencies about construction and permits. In addition to my role as an Stakeholder Manager, I also contribute—due to my background—to practical solutions for some construction elements, such as the secondary cooling system.”

How do you address the concerns of local communities about safety, noise pollution, and other environmental impacts?

"Before we start any activities that could cause disruptions, we explore all possible options to minimize the impact. The concerns of the local community are a priority in these conversations—this is one of the key questions I ask community members when I speak with them.

We take concerns seriously. If people experience disruptions, then those are real to them. You cannot deny the concerns, and we don’t want to. I believe it’s crucial to be predictable, reliable, and transparent: do what you say and say what you do. For example, construction is often linked to transportation of heavy equipment. That could lead to temporary disruptions. In those moments, we have to be honest and it is our responsibility to find the least disruptive way to conduct it.

Safety is crucial in a nuclear project. How do you ensure compliance with safety standards, both for employees and for the surrounding environment?
"Everybody is responsible for that. Here, within the PALLAS Programme, we are focused on this by encouraging an inquisitive attitude, among other things. And I think that everyone working on the project, not just specifically in civil nuclear engineering, has a responsibility to report an unsafe situation. This is crucial. Everyone should have a strong safety awareness and look out for one another."

Which measures are being taken to safeguard the neighboring Natura 2000 area?
"In construction field every company has a duty of care. Accordingly, we strive to minimize any potential impact on the environment and surrounding habitats.

At the start of the project, an analysis was conducted to identify the natural values present near the site. The areas where construction takes place have been cleared of any significant ecological value.

We have also taken various actions to protect nature and habitats. For example, amphibian fences have been installed, and an ecologist regularly monitors the site. He assesses which protected species are present and ensures that the protective measures remain in place.

Another example: in the future, our cooling system will use water from the Noord-Hollands Canal. The system is designed to prevent fish and other animals drawn into the system. We also studied the impact of the discharged water, examining how the thermal plume affects marine life on the seabed.

For the entire campus, a plan has been developed outlining measures to improve protection of the environment.”

What makes this project special to you?
How often is a reactor built in the Netherlands? The last one was around 60 years ago. It’s a very meaningful project. I truly believe we are working on something great. "Yes, you just want to be part of it."