The Netherlands literally means the “lower lands”. It’s not surprising then that a country named after such a distinguishing feature, would have such an interest in keeping the water out. The people of the Netherlands have learned that it is better to be safe than sorry and have learned a great deal from past experiences. One catalyst for serious changes in the way water technology was approached was the flood of 1953 in which 100.000 people lost their homes. As a result of this catastrophe the “Deltaworks” were started. This was also the beginning of the technological mastery and superiority of the Dutch in the field of water-related (and civil) engineering. Today The Netherlands boast an industry that sees three parties active in the field; the Private sector, the government of The Netherlands and the Knowledge Institutes.

Source: Agentschap NL

The private Dutch water sector is formed by numerous companies involved in hydraulic engineering, dredging, manufacturing and construction projects, industrial water supply, consulting firms and banks. Many of these companies have an international focus, particularly those involved in technology development and implementation in the areas of hydraulic engineering, water supply and purification. Dutch expertise in other sub-sectors includes land reclamation and port construction, water works, storm surge barriers and innovative flexible dikes and coastal protection. Desalination and water purification technology (such as membranes) are well known. Below an indication of the importance of the export of Dutch water technology.

The government on its part is taking care of the development and implementation of water management policy in The Netherlands. These policies also cover drinking water and wastewater.

There are five ministries that deal with water. The most important body however is the Directorate-General for Water Affairs. It is their task to look after the quality of water, flood warnings, calamity prevention etc.

The Netherlands is home to some of the world’s leading knowledge institutes in the field of water management. These bodies conduct governmental and private research and educational institutes such as Delft Hydraulics, Deltares and various top level universities. These institutes together cover a broad range of subjects from hydraulic engineering to integrated water management. The knowledge institutes are closely connected with an international oriented private water sector.

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