The research group Resilient Deltas conducts practice-based research into how to design a delta area as safe as possible and how to use the power of society, government and business for a vital and resilient delta.
Resilient Deltas examines the relationship between land use, social capital, the economy and the vital infrastructure of delta regions. It also takes a closer look at the governance of water safety and area development processes, so that an integrated picture emerges. Based on this insight, the research group is looking for a dynamic balance that will enable society in delta regions to develop in a resilient, vital and safe manner.
Self-reliance
The research project of the same name investigated how resilient a community is after a disaster, such as a flood. The research group also investigated the professional and the self-reliant community. This research provided an insight into available scientific knowledge about self-reliance, the motivation of citizens for self-reliance and tools for professionals to fulfil the changing professional role in a self-reliant society.
The research group works together with parties such as Safety Region Zeeland, the province, Rijkswaterstaat Sea & Delta and municipalities
This project approaches the development of flood protection strategies as a spatial issue, investigating linking area assignments, application of levee concepts based on Building with Nature (BmN), and developing public support for major landscape changes, through four research questions focusing on: Spatial quality landscape and consistency with support for spatial strategies;Physical and ecological boundary conditions for BmN solutions and incorporation into spatial strategies;Drivers and barriers to support through participatory design processes;Guidelines for development of spatial strategies, both for spatial design and the design process. MethodsThe research is elaborated for the Westerschelde, switching between two spatial scales: the Westerschelde (basin-level) and living labs (at three locations). A mix of methods is applied including surveys (Public Participation GIS), interviews, GIS analyses, modelling of BmN co-growth solutions (Delft3D-FM), and evaluation of the 'social learning process' in research-through-design design workshops. Result The research results in a methodology/method that can be applied by public professionals in (leveed) coastal areas from 2026 (after the end of current Sea Level Rise Knowledge Programme).
