Dutch Water Authority Launches Subsidy for Climate-Resilient Gardens
Hollandse Delta, Monday, 3 February 2025.
Waterschap Hollandse Delta introduces a subsidy for greening spaces to combat droughts and intense rainfall, open to citizens, schools, and associations in the Netherlands.
Subsidy Details and Impact
The Waterschap Hollandse Delta has launched its 2025 subsidy program starting February 3rd, aimed at creating water-friendly initiatives across its jurisdiction [1]. The program offers a 20% reimbursement for projects costing €250 or more [1]. This initiative comes as part of the water authority’s strategic response to increasingly extreme weather patterns, where the region faces both intensifying droughts and heavier rainfall events [1].
Success Stories and Examples
Previous iterations of the program have already demonstrated significant impact through various community projects. In Zwijndrecht, a family installed two 600-liter rain barrels for garden irrigation, while a young couple in Rotterdam implemented a system to use rainwater for laundry and toilet flushing [1]. In another notable example, a school in Dordrecht transformed their playground into a water-green space, showcasing the program’s versatility [1].
Strategic Climate Adaptation
According to Heemraad Piet van der Eijk, ‘The changes in climate have a major impact on our environment and safety in our delta. We must ensure that the soil can better absorb water for periods that are too wet and too dry’ [1]. The water authority emphasizes that climate adaptation requires community participation, particularly encouraging the reduction of paved surfaces in favor of green spaces [1].
Application Process and Goals
The application forms for the subsidy become available from February 3rd, 2025, through the water authority’s website [1]. This initiative aligns with broader regional efforts to strengthen climate resilience, as demonstrated by various water management programs across Zuid-Holland [2]. The program aims to create a collaborative approach to water management, ensuring communities are better prepared for future climate challenges [1].