Nature areas are ideal for climate adaptation
Recognising that more nature means more water catchment, the Dutch environmental organisation Natuurmonumenten is currently building so-called climate buffers in several locations in the Netherlands. These buffers are special nature areas where natural processes such as tidal movements, clay sedimentation and river meandering are allowed to proceed naturally, and where river water can temporarily be retained in extreme situations. "The unique thing about these areas is that they keep their value as nature spaces while contributing to flood protection," Marc Schepers of Natuurmonumenten explains. Marc will speak at Aquaterra 2009 about this new concept and the first experiences with the buffers that have already been created.
Controlled inundation
"Climate change has inspired the idea to set up new areas for natural processes,” Marc says. “For instance, we have planted marshes or woods near cities and villages, which can be flooded in a controlled way. These are natural water catchment areas or buffers that lower water levels and prevent flooding in adjacent inhabited areas. These climate buffers provide great added value in terms of the quality of inhabited space, especially in urban areas.”
Click here for the Aquaterra conference programme
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