ABSTRACT
This paper explores the question of how a flood risk approach combined with a life cycle management approach can be used to develop a new ductile dike design and management. In 2017 new standards have been set, based on actual extensive risk assessments. Based on these standards the Netherlands faces a large dike reinforcement program that has to be completed before 2050. Climate change is expected to enlarge the reinforcement program. The question rises whether the Netherlands will be able to keep on track with present schedule for dike reinforcement. Despite conservative habitat in dike management, due to large costs and high risks, an innovative and adaptive assessment of construction methods and management is required. The main challenge is how technical creativity, control and capacity contribute to integrated flood defence management. In this paper the challenge is assessed from three different perspectives. From a technical perspective the ductile dike design is proposed as a creative and competitive realization of future proof risk reduction by design. From a business administration perspective adaptive asset management is introduced to perform efficient flood defence management at portfolio level over the (infinite) life cycle. From an organisational perspective some measures are discussed with respect to capacity building to meet the challenges and creativity opportunities we face in a changing world. To elaborate the feasibility of risk reduction by ductile dikes a case study is performed for the Grebbe flood defence.
