SSB-Δ: Informed Decision-making for Storm Surge Barriers in a Liveable Delta

Storm surge barriers are essential for the protection of the Netherlands against storm surges. However, due to sea level rise, aging of these iconic structures and changes in the environment, the question is how long they will remain effective and functional. The main aim of SSB-Δ is to assess the technical and functional lifetime of the storm surge barriers and develop adaptation options within wider delta pathways by developing models for adaptive decision-making. This will be based on novel methods for pathway development and decision-making; a thorough understanding (based on new measurements and improved models) of the technical performance of the aging barriers, as well as the possibilities to adapt them; and finally, on quantification of the scenarios of the development of the hinterland (water system, biogeomorphology, socio-economic) in interaction with the storm surge barrier.
The Rhine-Meuse Delta with the Maeslant Barrier as well as the Eastern Scheldt with its storm surge barrier will be considered as case studies and later on as blueprint for other storm surge barriers in the Netherlands, Texas and Singapore.