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  • Render of the Kanal showroom: a modern glass-fronted building with curved roof on the corner of Sainctelette Square, featuring large windows and visible tram lines overhead
    © noAarchitecten, EM2N, Sergison Bates architects

Sustainability Statement

At KANAL–Centre Pompidou, sustainability is not an afterthought—it is integral to how we build, curate, and engage. As a major cultural institution in the heart of Brussels, we recognise our responsibility to reduce our environmental impact and contribute to a more equitable, climate-conscious future.

A Sustainable Transformation

KANAL occupies a 40,000 m² modernist structure—once a Citroën garage, now reimagined as a public space for art and architecture. Its renovation reflects our commitment to sustainable design, with careful attention to energy efficiency, the reuse of existing materials, and long-term environmental performance. The project follows the principles of circular construction and aims to meet exemplary standards in energy consumption, thermal performance, and daylight access.

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Green Practices in Programming

Sustainability extends beyond bricks and mortar. We incorporate eco-conscious thinking into our exhibitions, workshops, and events. This includes prioritising local materials, limiting single-use resources, and collaborating with artists and partners who share our environmental values. We are continuously exploring more sustainable production methods and transportation practices for artworks and exhibitions.

We don’t see sustainability as separate from culture—it’s part of how we imagine the future.

KANAL Sustainability Working Group
  • Black-and-white sketch of the Citroën showroom with a curved glass facade and large "CITROËN" lettering at the top.
    Sketch by Alexis Dumont and Marcel Van Goethem for the new Belgian Citroën dealership, 1933 © Kanal Architecture Collections
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  • Render of the Kanal showroom: a modern glass-fronted building with curved roof on the corner of Sainctelette Square, featuring large windows and visible tram lines overhead
    © noAarchitecten, EM2N, Sergison Bates architects

We want our grounds to breathe with the city—open, living, and ecologically active.

KANAL Sustainability Working Group
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Community and Civic Commitment

We believe sustainability includes the social. KANAL champions community initiatives that improve urban life and foster civic responsibility—such as canal clean-ups, educational programmes on climate awareness, and partnerships with local environmental groups. We strive to build a cultural space that models care—for people, the city, and the planet.

When the neighbourhood thrives, the museum thrives. The two are inseparable.

KANAL Community Engagement Lead

Looking Ahead

Sustainability is a long-term commitment. As KANAL grows, we are developing clear goals and measurable standards to assess our environmental impact—whether in emissions, materials, or social reach. Transparency and accountability will guide our evolution.

Together with our partners, audiences, and artists, we aim to build not only a museum, but a model of cultural responsibility.

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We’re still learning—and we’re committed to learning out loud, with our public.

KANAL Leadership Statement

Transparency and Progress

Sustainability is a journey that evolves with each decision we make. From materials and mobility to inclusion and education, KANAL remains committed to tracking its impact and learning from every stage. We invite the public, our partners, and the broader cultural sector to explore how we measure progress, celebrate milestones, and confront challenges.

Read our latest Sustainability Reports

  • History of the Building

    Built in 1934 as a 21m-high Citroën garage, this modernist landmark is now a 40,000 m² cultural centre

  • Our Values

    Grounded in inclusion, collaboration, and access, KANAL connects communities through culture and dialogue

  • About us

    A former Citroën garage becomes KANAL: a space for modern art, architecture, and urban life

  • Team & Directors

    Led by Yves Goldstein and Kasia Redzisz, a multidisciplinary team shapes KANAL’s direction

  • Mission and Vision

    A cultural project by Fondation KANAL, Centre Pompidou (Paris), and Brussels-based architecture centre CIVA

  • Partners

    A cultural project by Fondation KANAL, Centre Pompidou (Paris), and Brussels-based architecture centre CIVA

  • Activity Reports

    KANAL engages broad publics through workshops, tours, and inclusive programming across the city