Holland: The Netherlands is not the only country that faces a risk of flooding due to climate change.
A recent European Environment Agency (EEA) report, Climate Change and Water Adaptation Issues, predicts an increased risk of flooding in Europe.
Changes in river management, including the deepening and straightening of rivers, increased urbanisation of flood plains and deforestation are contributory factors. The report highlights that winter flooding in Britain in 2001-2002 and summer floods in central Europe in 2002 are examples of the type of flooding that can be expected to increase because of climate change.
Sea level rises and the increase in severe weather events will put extra pressure on coastlines and the 33 per cent of EU citizens who live within 50km (30 miles) of the sea.
"We are talking about 100,000 kilometres of coastline in Europe and the impact will vary but those areas most at risk are probably the Netherlands, Spain, Denmark and Britain due to sea level rises," says Ronan Uhel, EEA head of spatial analysis .
The report notes that in Ireland the growth of cities and towns along rivers will increase the likelihood of flooding that will cause "significant damage to property and infrastructure".
Increased flooding will also result in outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis because water treatment plants are unable to cope with increased flows of water. - Jamie Smyth