3.9 - Netherlands

Question 1

What physical factors make The Netherlands more vulnerable to coastal flooding?

Answer 1

• Very low-lying (26% below SL)
• SLR 19cm over last century
• Great Flood 1953 - mid-latitude depression generated 5m storm surge

Question 2

What human factors increase The Netherland’s vulnerability to coastal flooding?

Answer 2

• Vulnerable population - projected increase in flood prone urban areas of 30-125% by 2100

Question 3

ELSA analysis of The Netherland’s coastal management?

Answer 3

• Environmental change: Room for River programme, shift to adaptation strategies
• Scientific: Used SLR projections, storm modelling, GIS-based flood mapping, Delta Commission (expert scientists, engineers, economists)
• All Stakeholders: Extensive consultation with farmers, residents, fishermen, environmental groups, and businesses, compensation and relocation schemes for displaced farmers = reduced social conflict/top-down resistance, built public trust with education campaigns + transparency