Study shows Netherlands needs to deal with increased rainwater

A study published Wednesday showed that Dutch towns and cities have to make structural changes to deal with an increase in rainwater. The study, performed by Stichting Rioned, a public-private organization that deals with sewage and water problems in the Netherlands, surveyed 203 municipalities and found that a total of 90 per cent suffer from water surpluses in buildings and on the street.

Rioned said municipalities needed to make structural changes in public areas in towns and cities to ensure rainwater can flow to specific areas.

One example is to increase the height of pavements or lower the street level. Another solution is to direct the rainwater to parks and green areas.

The survey said 90 per cent of all municipalities were planning to take extra measures to cope with future water surpluses.

Seventy per cent had already taken measures to counter the problems resulting from increased rainfall.

Source: DPA via EarthTimes.org, 23 August 2007