The province aims to accelerate the climate-resilient development of North Holland. This is proposed by the Provincial Executive. Acceleration is necessary to be better prepared for the consequences of climate change, such as waterlogging, heat stress, drought, and flooding.
“We are already noticing climate change. Heavy rainfall that floods a residential area or nature reserve, agricultural land becoming increasingly saline, and summers getting hotter. Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time. We take our responsibility and prepare for the future,” said Deputy Kocken. “The changing climate affects how we can live, work, and relax safely and healthily in North Holland.”
Approach to Changing Climate
Since January, climate adaptation regulations for new construction have come into effect in the province of North Holland climate adaptation regulations for new construction. For new construction projects, climate risks must be identified and addressed. In the rural area, the province is working on several projects to make agriculture and nature less vulnerable to climate change. Through the climate adaptation approach, the province is also focusing on knowledge sharing and awareness. For example, it is further developing the Climate Adaptation Signal Map Opens an external link. This provides insight into the effects of climate change on urbanized areas, agriculture, and nature. The province is committed to water awareness through, for example, the Agriculture Portal for farmers and water profiles for the industry. A water profile is an overview of water use and applications within the industry, intended to provide insight into how much, what type, and for what purposes water is used. This helps in making choices regarding water availability and drought management.
Spatial Planning
Province of North Holland is looking at how the province should be structured in the future. Through the participation campaign Your North Holland, Your Space Opens an external link it aims to actively prepare for climate change. Various themes are included: safe dikes, preventing waterlogging from heavy rain, sufficient drinking water, and managing less fresh water during dry periods. Residents can also share ideas and concerns here.
Deputy Kocken: “With smart interventions – space for water, more shaded areas – we can adapt our villages, cities, agricultural land, and nature reserves to a changing climate. We share a responsibility for a healthy and safe North Holland. Climate change does not wait – let us not do so either!”