Use of learning environments in Road Map: Towards a Flood Resilient Urban Environment, 26-27 November, Paris.

Europe spends over 55M Euro a year on a rather balanced portfolio of flood-related research, but how do we set up and steer these research projects? We are doing the right research, but are we doing it right? Current research stresses that urban development presents windows of opportunity to reduce flood vulnerability. However, there is little experience in seizing that window of opportunity. Research itself, via learning environments, can contribute to the implementation in practical demonstration projects and even a wider uptake e.g. through policy. Learning environments provide the freedom to use different approaches, facilitate the consideration of a broader range of problems and solutions, bring stakeholders together and facilitate capacity building. More collaborative research that facilitates joint learning and is impact focussed is needed, preferably supported by innovative demonstration projects.

For more information please visit www.urbanflood.org