The following country profile is found in the Meister Consultants Group study: Floating Houses and Mosquito Nets: Emerging Climate Change Adaptation Strategies Around the World.
Summary
A huge part of the Netherlands is situated below sea level. In order to
prevent catastrophes like the Storm Tide of 1953, adaptation to climate
change is regarded as a matter of national security. Rising sea levels will result
in an increased likelihood of flooding. The issue has been on the political
agenda for many years, especially in the context of water management,
costal protection, and land use planning. In light of the fact that a rise in
sea level is unavoidable, the approach to flood prevention has evolved
from fighting against the rising tide to living with and adapting to it.
In 2007, the Netherlands enacted its national program for adaptation. In
addition, the Delta Commission was established to develop a flood prevention
strategy. The commission published its recommendations at the end
of 2008. A law that that deals with flood prevention is currently pending (p. 37).
Country Profile - Netherlands
