R&D highlights edition 2018

43 R&D Highlights 2018 Social and economic impact There is increasing demand for nature-based solutions in order to combine the protection of natural resources with the provision of goods and services for economic sectors and society. The theme focuses on the dynamics, services and use of general systems and ecosystems for safety, health and a green economy. Key questions covered by the theme are the following: Can social and economic developments be harmonised with environmental legislation, and vice-versa? Is it possible to replace expensive rigid flood defences or to combine them with adaptive nature-based alternatives? Can the better planning and/or use of ecosystem services and functions reduce the risks for human health, and how? And how can the need for policy-relevant information about ecosystems be translated into monitoring strategies? Our research allows governments to implement water and environmental policies more effectively. Dutch consulting and dredging companies are opening up newmarkets worldwide and non-governmental organisations can substantiate their visions and strategies by using our expertise. Doctorate and master students from universities worldwide can develop their talents through direct access to Deltares’ knowledge and research facilities.