Motivation and Activities
Building a unique network that bridges theory and practice in flood protection
In recent years, we have been increasingly affected by severe flooding and heavy rainfall events, such as the July 2021 floods in North Rhine-Westphalia and Rhineland-Palatinate. As a result of climate change, we must continue to expect a changing climate with more extreme rainfall and a greater burden, particularly on urban areas. We want to be prepared and work together towards a resilient society.
Our aim is to provide advice and information on all aspects of flood protection and to connect affected citizens, flood risk management, business, science and education, because...
- ... everyone should have the opportunity and access to learn practical self-preparedness measures.
- ... flood prevention must be communicated in a way that is easy to understand.
- ... individually tailored measures can be implemented simply and effectively in any region of the world.
- ... by connecting those affected, the business sector and the scientific community, we can develop practical adaptation strategies.
- ... building a network helps to shorten and expand information channels.
- ... the pooling of knowledge creates new knowledge.
Areas of activity of our network
The Flood Competence Centre (HKC) brings together science and practice in the field of integrated flood protection. In doing so, it involves all affected and interested parties and promotes the development, maintenance, provision and dissemination of specialist expertise.
Its core tasks include the dissemination of information, as well as the preparation, development and implementation of projects, research initiatives and studies on the sustainable, cost-effective and practical management of flood-related issues.
The HKC will contribute to providing targeted impetus for development beyond the status quo, with a view to devising economically viable and practical solutions against the backdrop of risk assessments and future prospects.
The network will connect research institutes, companies and service providers, insurance firms, citizens, associations, operators, public authorities and ministries, and all other parties interested in flood protection, to foster new collaborations and partnerships, thereby creating the basis for mutual knowledge transfer and enhanced expertise for all stakeholders. This provides the HKC with the essential prerequisites for engaging in dialogue with those affected by flooding with the necessary expertise.
What are our areas of activity?
- Risk communication to raise awareness
- Prevention and mitigation of flood damage
- Risk identification and assessment
- Structural and behavioural preventive measures
- Climate adaptation measures
How do we operate?
- Advice and support for citizens on personal preparedness
- Provision of information material
- Initiation and support of studies and projects
- Organisation of events and symposia to share expertise
- Promotion of education and training in flood and heavy rainfall risk management
- Establishment of a European and global network
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Would you like more information about the work of the HKC?