Climate change on the North Sea coast: Norderney is fighting for freshwater resources!

Climate change on the North Sea coast: Norderney is fighting for freshwater resources!

Climate change has profound effects on living conditions in northwest Lower Saxony. How uol.de reported, these effects manifest themselves in the form of more precipitation in winter and dryness in summer. To address these challenges, various research projects have been launched, including the WAKOS (Water on the Coasts of East Frisia) project, which is funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research as part of the RegIKlim program.

In the WAKOS project, which has been active since 2020, five network partners work together under the leadership of the Helmholtz Center Hereon. This region was selected as one of six model regions in Germany to examine potential climate impacts and develop solutions. The second funding phase began a year ago and focuses on transferring the knowledge gained into usable products.

Adaptation strategies for Norderney

An innovative element of the project is the “freshwater lentil walk” on Norderney. This approximately five kilometer long tour was developed by Lena Thissen together with a social scientist from the University of Hamburg. It begins at the waterworks in the center of the island, leads to a production well and to a damp dune valley. The aim of this initiative is to bring the island's freshwater lens to life and to illustrate the effects of climate change on this important resource.

The freshwater lens on Norderney is a layer up to 80 meters thick that is fed by rainwater and is crucial for the drinking water supply. According to forecasts, freshwater supplies could shrink by 10 to 15 percent by the end of the century. Additionally, the island has experienced sea level rise of about 16 cm in the last 100 years, increasing erosion and natural hazards.

Climatic challenges and technical solutions

A key goal of WAKOS is to develop technical solutions to the challenges posed by climate change and to improve society's ability to adapt. The challenges identified include storm surges, heavy rain and periods of drought. While coastal erosion, groundwater recharge and saltwater intrusion impact water management and coastal protection, rainfall flooding threatens when drainage capacity is exceeded.

The need for comprehensive flood protection is also highlighted by extreme events. A heavy rain event at Christmas 2023 led to flooding in Lower Saxony. The researchers also analyze the morphological reactions of the islands and coastal foreshores in order to better assess dike safety. The development of retention areas and natural water structures is important in order to reduce the effects of floods and increase the capacity to absorb floods.

In order to meet the challenges, a “climate academy” is being planned, which will offer digital training and face-to-face events for local actors. The first workshops on Norderney are scheduled for autumn in order to discuss the project results with those responsible on site. Workshops and interviews with local stakeholders are also planned to ensure an effective exchange.

The adaptation strategies are supported by insights that should result from the analysis of climatic and social factors. At the same time, the WAKOS project highlights the need to revise the planning structures in Lower Saxony in order to reduce obstacles to climate adaptation. A key concern remains the balance between agricultural interests and flood protection.