Drought and floods: how the threat of water provides a response
Floods and droughts are becoming more frequent and more intense due to climate change. These two extremes, a shortage or abundance of water, have serious consequences for people and nature, often with a drastic economic impact. In summer 2021, extreme rainfall in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany caused €38 billion worth of damage. In 2024, low water levels in the Rhine due to prolonged drought disrupted supply lines in Europe.
An integrated approach, from policy to effective solutions
Sweco combines prevention, mitigation, and adaptation to meet current and future challenges. Taking an integrated approach, our experts focus on the hydrological aspect of climate adaptation, or the impact of climate change on water levels and precipitation patterns. Various qualitative and quantitative analyses and complex hydrological modelling techniques lead to accurate predictions and innovative, effective solutions.
You can turn to our teams of experienced designers and engineers for:
- Risk analysis: evaluating the vulnerability of areas to drought and flooding
- Policy and planning: advice and support for developing regional and national policy recommendations, for rainwater and drought plans, and for ecohydrological studies
- Proactive water management and solutions: design and implementation of infrastructure and nature to manage water
- Technical support during execution on site
Avoiding human suffering and costs
Each situation has different needs, challenges, and local characteristics. From infiltration and salinisation, to buffering and controlled flood plains. Our project teams provide tailored research, evaluation, and advisory services to the client in consultation with stakeholders. That way, you can decide based on the best information. We help you implement efficient water management strategies and put maximum effort into prevention so that you prevent damage, avoid human suffering, and save important costs.
Discover our realistic approach, founded on a broad field of expertise and extensive experience, to effectively manage and prevent flooding and drought. A lasting contribution to the well-being and safety of our society.
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