On April 21, more than 60 professionals involved in regional water systems in Twente and beyond gathered for the Crutzen workshop, “Water Transition Twente: Toward a More Resilient Water System.” As part of the KIN Water Transition Twente program, this workshop—jointly organized by the Climate Research Initiative Netherlands (KIN), the Twentse Golf, and the Climate Centre at the University of Twente—took place on the University of Twente campus.
The Twente region, situated on high sandy soils, has been grappling with drought and decreasing groundwater levels for decades. Climate change is increasing pressure on the water system, while demand for water is rising from sectors such as housing, agriculture, industry, and nature conservation. The region therefore faces far-reaching decisions. The UT analysis “Drought in Twente” shows that these challenges cannot be solved with isolated measures or further optimization of the current system.
Given these challenges: how can the water transition in Twente be designed to create a resilient and equitable water system? The participants’ discussions led to the following insights and research questions, which were presented to a panel including Martijn Dadema, a member of the Provincial Executive of Overijssel, Stefan Kuks, chair of the Vechtstromen Water Board, and Marc Teutelink, alderman with the municipality of Enschede.
A broad, coherent approach is needed: Water issues require not only technical solutions, but also a broader shift in how we value water and approach the future (including uncertainties and long-term developments). How can an integrated vision contribute to shaping future water management?
System transition is extensive and requires collaboration: Change takes time and occurs at multiple levels. Both top-down guidance and bottom-up initiatives are important and must be well coordinated. How can an integrated approach contribute to shaping future water management?
The principle of water- and soil-oriented management is difficult to implement in practice: Although this is a guiding principle at the national level, fragmentation and a lack of space make it difficult to apply in practice. New ideas often get bogged down. How can we effectively implement the principle of water- and soil-oriented management in Twente?
Cooperation between organizations is essential: Responsibilities are spread across many parties. Real change requires better coordination and cooperation. How can organizations in Twente work together more effectively to make the transition possible?
Strong leadership is needed, but not a given: Transition requires clear choices and courage, but this is difficult due to pressure from short-term interests, risks, and fragmented responsibilities. What kind of leadership is needed for the water transition in Twente, and how can this be encouraged?
Our approach
These challenges form the basis for an agenda and targeted follow-up questions for applied research on the water transition in Twente. That transition can only be achieved if professionals from both the field and knowledge institutions join forces.
The KIN will work with partners in Twente to develop a Knowledge-in-Action Agenda. Read more about the program “Water Transition Twente: Toward a More Resilient Water System.” The organization has issued a call for project proposals on “Water Transitions in Twente,” which will be announced in mid-June. Contact: c.m.a.vanbers@utwente.nl
Artist Justin Timmer, who draws inspiration from nature, created drawings of what he heard throughout the day.
