The case study is located in the core area of Flanders (Belgium) and is characterized by a rural, urbanized and multifunctional landscape. The estuary of the river Scheldt is still under the tidal influence of the North Sea, which creates a unique hydrological and ecological system. The Scheldt and its tributaries, such as the rivers Durme and Dender, created a large valley structure that was traditionally used as grasslands and wetlands and formed the foundation of small trade towns and agricultural villages. The biophysical structure typified by both the alluvial and wet valleys and the sandy to sandy-loamy agricultural land set the scene for a unique multifunctional cultural landscape.
Objectives and expected activities: Currently, agricultural activities have been intensified and industrialized, and urbanization has fragmented the historic cultural landscapes, but vast areas of this cultural landscape still include strong heritage values. The area is vulnerable to different direct and indirect impacts of climate change induced by extreme weather events and sea-level rise. Due to storm surges and the tidal effects, flooding of the valleys can occur up to 150 km inland.