Rotterdam

Rotterdam’s Resilience Journey

With nearly 80% of the city below sea level and one of the largest ports in the world, Rotterdam has built up centuries of experience when it comes to resilience, particularly in the areas of integrated water management and innovative climate adaptation.

Rotterdam’s efforts are still being made with an eye toward the flood of 1953, which killed almost 2,000 people and caused widespread property damage. It was an event that underscored the destructive power of the sea, and spurred the modern flood management industry in the country. 

In 2007, the city announced its ambition to become 100% climate-proof by 2025 – able to continue functioning economically and socially with minimal disturbance under any extreme weather situation.