The city of canals is worried about too much water. Amsterdam is facing constantly increasing rainfall, and is concerned about how quickly it can be absorbed without flooding.
Under a new plan that is being discussed, all new buildings would be required to capture and hold water, releasing it slowly at a rate that can be handled by canals and earth by using green roofs, retaining tanks and other methods. The goal is to prevent flooding of streets, cellars and houses, causing damage.
The goal would be for each building to capture a specified amount of water and then release it over a period of two to three days. The cost would be borne mostly by builders and developers, but they are expected to be offered some form of tax relief in return.
Photo: Bus stop with ‘green roof’
