Report │ Leven met Zout Water: overzicht huidige kennis omtrent interne verzilting

Author(s): Leven met Water, STOWA, Acacia Water 
Date: 2009-11-01 
Language: Dutch

This report synthesises current knowledge on internal salinisation in low-lying Dutch polder areas, explaining geological origins, human-induced drivers, and expected amplification by climate change. It reviews impacts on water supply, agriculture, nature, and livestock, and contrasts user perceptions with regulatory norms while noting key knowledge gaps. The study inventories mitigation and adaptation measures at user, management, and policy levels, emphasising regional self-sufficiency and smarter allocation of scarce fresh water. It concludes that while flushing remains common practice, rising demand and dwindling high-quality supplies require differentiated water quality objectives and targeted, locally cost-effective measures.

Relevant climate hazards: Saline intrusion; Sea level rise; Drought; Precipitation; Subsidence