R&D highlights edition 2019

40 Building on or in the soft soil of deltas is not without risks. The same applies to structures offshore, near coasts, and in harbours and river beds. Deltares studies the reduction of costs and risks for building in coastal regions, in soft ground and at sea. Innovative solutions are designed to make existing infrastructure resilient to climate change, if possible using natural processes. Delta Social and economic impact The world’s population will increase to nine billion by 2050 and people are concentrated more and more in delta areas. These areas are increasingly threatened by climate change, rising sea levels and land subsidence. Not only the growing population but also rising prosperity are leading to more mobility and a greater interest in sustainability, including the use of natural processes. These trends will intensify demand for natural resources and renewable energy.