As an initial project of the Delta Alliance network a comparison of seven of the world’s deltas is being performed. This study compares physical, ecological and socio-economic impacts and adaptive response measures regarding the most affected sectors. The overview will provide the basis for the development of score cards to compare current and possible future state of deltas as they respond to changing conditions, taking into account the respective socio-economic and cultural differences. Lessons learned, research gaps and opportunities for knowledge exchange and collaboration between deltas will be identified. The final aim is to enhance resilience and sustainable development in deltas.

The following deltas are the focus of this comparative overview: Rhine-Meuse (Netherlands); Mekong (Vietnam); Ciliwung (Indonesia); Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna (Bangladesh); California Bay (USA); Mississippi (USA); and Yangtze (China). The project is being carried out by institutions in the seven deltas, and is being coordinated by Deltares. For more information please contact Tom Bucx of Deltares (tom.bucx(at)deltares.nl).

Booklet: Comparative overview of deltas. Towards more resilient and sustainable deltas.