Title abstract: Method towards determining coastal adaptation pathways for the Wadden Sea

Date and location: The 16th International Scientific Wadden Sea Symposium (ISWSS), Tuesday, 28 October, to Thursday, 30 October 2025, in Groningen, Netherlands.

Authors: Jelle Bulens¹, Jaap Nienhuis¹, Frances Dunn¹, Marjolijn Haasnoot^1,2 

¹Department of Physical Geography, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands 
²Deltares, Delft, The Netherlands 

Abstract:
With the current and projected climate pressures on geomorphology, ecology, and subsequently society in the Wadden Sea area, a shift towards a more natural and open system that restores the system’s original flexibility can provide a perspective for adaptation. This poster presents an overview of a methodology and preliminary results on effective coastal adaptation strategies under future scenarios of sea-level rise along the trilateral Wadden sea coast. We first compile and review current and near-future adaptation strategies as well as natural analogues (e.g. Boschplaat, Terschelling; Sommerdeich realignment Langeoog; Ems estuary beneficial use of dredged sediment). After literature review and data collection focused on existing adaptation strategies, we will use numerical modelling to assess the effects of adaptation strategies on the Wadden Sea physical environment. We propose to use archetypes to help with understanding possible strategies and their potential for future upscaling in different types of Wadden Sea areas. We will use the archetypes to explore adaptive pathways for the trilateral Wadden Sea coast and provide actionable advice for future management across stakeholders.