Foundations 19 – Infrastructure Space

The sub-project “The Big U” of the com- petition “Rebuild by Design” won the global LafargeHolcim Award Bronze in 2015.

« » A World Bank study shows that the consequences of the rising sea level alone will cost hundreds of billions. Billions of people live in delta regions and along coastlines. “Those deltas become more and more vulnerable – especially because of the way we urbanize, occupy, and develop these spaces,” observes Henk Ovink. The World Bank says that the rising sea level will cost the most in the United States. Africa will probably get away cheaper – but not because the problems will be less. “The economic and financial perspective on water risks in Africa is low because we value it low,” explains Ovink. Poor and vulnerable nations tend to be forsaken in times of crisis. Henk Ovink expects that humanitarian, environmental, econom- ic, and political crises will increase both in number and intensity during the forthcoming decades. Unfortunately, the political will to find sustainable solutions is very small. Politicians like US President Barack Obama, who recognize the threat of climate change, face difficulties in enacting their agenda and establishing good working relationships. Many politicians have ignored climate change or even denied its existence. “Climate change is too slow for politicians,” be- lieves Henk Ovink. “Over the last hundred years the sea level rose 24 centimeters – that is nothing for a politician. ” The World Economic Forum named water crises as the greatest risk for the next ten years.

The so-called “Dry Line” will be built in phases. It will protect New York City from catastrophic flooding and create new spaces for the citizens to use.

“Rebuild by Design” aims to make water a part of the local culture.

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A storm like Sandy causes more problems than only water.

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