Rotterdam: The water city of the future

The Netherlands has developed sustainable water management systems to cope with changing weather patterns and extreme downpours. The sea level along the Dutch coast has already risen by approximately 20 centimeters over the past century; a cause of real concern for Rotterdam, a city situated some six meters below sea level. In a proactive approach to achieving sustainability, the Rotterdam Climate Proof (RCP) program aims to achieve fully climate proof status for the city by 2025. The city is taking a holistic approach that offers innovative solutions for the collection of rainwater from roofs and other impermeable surfaces as well as the separation of dirt and leaves from the rainwater that has been collected. The construction of additional water storage facilities and water plazas, and the provision of incentives for green roofs, all help to preserve the optimal quality of life in the city despite the drastic climate change. The aim is that even during dry periods the city will have water of a sufficient quality.