C5a: preparing for the potential impact of climate change
The Cluster for Cloud-to-Coast Climate Change Adaptation (C5a) project promoted a whole-system and long-term perspective to address the tangible, economic and social consequences of anticipated flood events. It also recognised the profound implications of climate change, the main catalyst for extreme weather conditions.
Rijkswaterstaat’s commitment and the specific impact of C5a
By spearheading key projects such as C5a, Rijkswaterstaat demonstrates its commitment to sustainable flood management. Rijkswaterstaat took an active role in C5a from the beginning, seeing it as an extension of its earlier involvement in the Building with Nature project.
This proactive stance has facilitated deeper international collaboration, which has been particularly beneficial for subsequent projects. The C5a project has had a notable impact on the Dordrecht case study, using the insights of high-level administrators for future planning in the area.
The need for a holistic response to climate dynamics
The North Sea Region is experiencing an increasing trend in the intensity and frequency of floods and droughts due to climate change. A confluence of autonomous developments beyond climate change adds to the complexity of these issues. These include population growth, ageing infrastructure, economic growth, land subsidence and social needs. As a result, a single, sectoral approach is no longer sufficient.
Rijkswaterstaat’s involvement in C5a underlines its commitment to addressing these challenges. Drawing from its foundational work in the Building with Nature project, Rijkswaterstaat took the lead in C5a, strengthening international relationships and promoting a proactive approach to climate adaptation.
Cloud-to-Coast (C2C) approach
The C5a project resulted in the development of a ‘Cloud-to-Coast’ (C2C) approach, integrating four constituent systems: catchments, coasts, cities, infrastructure networks. This cohesive strategy has enabled the formulation of versatile, multifunctional solutions.
These solutions offer more sustainable, integrated answers to flood risk management in the North Sea region. Grounded in empirical evidence and feasibility, it draws insights from 7 previous Interreg North Sea region projects: TOPSOIL, CATCH, CANAPE, FRAMES, BEGIN and Building with Nature.
Joining C5a was a strategic move for Rijkswaterstaat. With the ongoing challenges of climate change - such as rising sea levels and extreme weather events - there is an urgent need for a more sustainable, future-proof infrastructure and water safety system. C5a, with its focus on governance, cooperation and technical know-how, provides valuable insights that enable Rijkswaterstaat to strengthen its strategies and networks.
For a comprehensive understanding of the Cloud2Coast approach, its practical applications and a useful toolkit, visit Cloud 2 Coast website.
It also offers information on stakeholder engagement and detailed information on the seven case studies carried out in Denmark, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Germany, Belgium and Sweden. Each case study provides an example of the Cloud2Coast approach applied in real-life scenarios.
Project period
2019 - 2022
European programme
Project website
Partners
Ministry of Environment and Food Denmark Coastal Authority (DK), Flanders Environment Agency (BE), Länsstyrelsen Värmland (SE), NLWKN (DE), Sayers and Partners (UK), Provincie Drenthe (NL), Universiteit van Twente (NL), Kent County Council (UK) and Central Denmark Region (DK)
