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Spatial perspective on climate adaptation Noord-Kennemerland-Noord

We recently prepared a spatial perspective on climate adaptation for the North-Kennemerland-North (NKN) region as part of the adaptation strategy for this area. The region has a great deal of variation in landscape types. This is reflected in the climate tasks, but also in the various options for an integrated approach. Our drawn up spatial perspective on climate adaptation is a first step towards this and also offers valuable tools for further research.

In an initial survey, the most important climate risks were identified on the basis of different area types; as shown in the diagram. This includes flooding, desiccation and low water quality due to heating. Subsequently, based on the themes of energy, built environment, landscape & nature and infrastructure, the most important trends were mapped out. These are linked to climate tasks, determined by Arcadis, to provide insights into where developments in other themes intersect with climate tasks. This way, climate vulnerabilities become visible and the first step can be taken towards an integrated approach. This link between climate challenges on the one hand, and developments on the other, forms the basis for integrated area-oriented solutions that can ensure sustainable climate adaptation.

Approach

The maps, the analysis and the integrated solutions were presented to various authorities and experts from the region during a workshop. In these workshops, the proposed solutions were tested, strengthened and completed. The results of this process were then incorporated into the spatial perspective. The area boundaries are not based on municipal boundaries, but on landscape, urban and economic differences (see the map). Based on these differences, the region can be divided into five areas; each with its own identity, namely dune & village, urban heart, string of beads, wetland area and cultural landscape.

 

The stakeholders that possibly could be involved in the different areas are very diverse. They vary from residents, project developers, landscape architects and ecologists to research institutions, farmers, municipalities, provinces and water boards. New alliances should be formed in every area and at every possible matching opportunity. Proper involvement of stakeholders has proved to be very valuable for this exercise and should also be central to the further elaboration and capitalization on opportunities in the field of climate adaptation.