The Delta Programme and updated flood risk management policies in the Netherlands

The Delta Programme consists of strategies to protect the Netherlands against flooding and to safeguard fresh water supply while anticipating climate change. The programme is aimed at avoiding a disastrous flood, rather than responding to it after the event. This requires a multigovernmental approach, strategies dealing with uncertainty and adequate institutional arrangements to guarantee future-proof implementation. The Delta Programme includes updated standards for flood protection, a policy framework regarding flood-proof urban (re) development and efforts to improve disaster management. Uncertainties about the future climate, population, economy and society are to tackled by an adaptive way of planning i.e. maximizing flexibility, keeping options open and avoiding 'lock in'. The multifunctional design of these measures increases societal 'added value' (regarding nature, recreation or urban development) and enhances acceptance. The Delta Commissioner directs this multigovernmental process, monitors progress, reports to Parliament every year and takes the necessary steps when problems arise. From 2020 onwards, a Delta Fund of about 1 billion EUR per year will provide stability in financial resources. The new Delta Act forms the legal basis for the programme, the Commissioner and the Delta Fund.