On June 28th Jonas Papenborg will be speaker at first of four “BIG” themed lectures at the BOKU University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences in Vienna. Jonas will present "The Seven New Netherlands" karres+brands’ proposal on which developments and uncertainties could be decisive for the for the future of the Dutch landscape in 2070 and what role the government could play in this transition.

The Dutch landscape has largely been made by human nature. This resulted in particular landscapes, such as land reclamation, sand dunes and delta works. This rich tradition however also has its downside. Constantly working against nature leads to unforeseen problems and constant maintenance. With new challenges as climate change, rising sea levels and an energy transition ahead this situation seems untenable. To ease the tension between the current human-made landscape and nature we believe it is essential to move with nature instead of working against it.

In response to the challenge to move with nature karres+brands introduces "The Seven New Netherlands". The Seven New Netherlands suggest a new administrative division which, unlike the current sector policies, is based on the logic of the landscape. Founded on natural conditions and economic relations the Netherlands can be divided into seven new regions with an own character and its own strength.

For more information please visit the BOKU webpage here