The Netherlands gives high priority to flood protection. Its regional water authorities and Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, through the Rijkswaterstaat, work together to implement the Dutch Flood Protection Program. It currently runs 79 state-of-the-art projects and seven innovation programs.

Various measures can be taken for water resource management, but the use of dams is still one of the most powerful. Dams, when used effectively and efficiently, can help us control floods and store more water for future use. This presentation describes how we can fully utilize existing water reservoirs using dam optimization.

Aquifers are underground layers of rocks that store, treat and transfer water. Managing them may be difficult because groundwater level fluctuates. This presentation provides information on groundwater innovations that can make aquifers resilient and in optimum condition.

Learn about a smart water management project by Korea-based Hankuk Engineering Consultants in Denpasar City, Indonesia.

Taipe,China experiences several water challenges. It has a young fragile geology vulnerable to frequent earthquakes. It has many high mountains with steep river slopes. In addition, it has uneven rainfall distribution and experiences frequent typhoons. The government renovated the Shihmen Reservoir, along with other reservoirs, to address these challenges and efficiently manage its water supply.

Reducing risks from disasters such as floods is crucial, especially in areas vulnerable to frequent typhoons. In Taipe,China, a basin-based platform integrating hydrology, hydraulics, water resource planning, and a database system is currently being used not only to prevent floods and to provide an early warning system, but also to develop water resources.

Manila Water is the water and sanitation services concessionaire for Metro Manila’s east zone. The company faces several challenges in providing sanitation services to its area of coverage. These challenges include the provision of land for treatment plants, securing right of way for sewer lines, solid waste and biosolids management, and increasing public awareness and support. This presentation shares how the company strives to overcome these challenges.

In The Netherlands, floods have been a foremost concern as it has claimed the lives of close to a million people since the year 838. Without dikes, 29% of the county is below sea level, 26% are flood plains, and 55% are flood-prone areas. This presentation shares the actions the country has taken to mitigate floods. It also shares the lessons it has gained. Succesful flood mitigation, based on The Netherlands' experience, needs the involvement of stakeholders and science institutes. Building with nature also helps ensure sustainability and support.