Delta Commissioner argues for bigger role for construction sector
On Friday 7 July, Delta Commissioner Wim Kuijken spoke at the FIEC 2013 conference in Amsterdam. Leaders in the European construction sector were gathered there for their annual conference.
This year, the theme of the conference was the role of European contractors in the 21st century in relation to water. The Delta Commissioner explained the Dutch approach of the Delta Programme and the important role the construction industry plays in finding innovative and cost-effective solutions. This involves, for example, the multifunctional use of space and combining functions.
In our densely populated country there is an urgent need for intelligent, integrated solutions. Moreover, the involvement of the market at an early stage, when plans are being drawn up, is essential. Market parties can also contribute via intelligent financing constructions in public-private partnerships.
The Delta Commissioner pointed out the great risk of flooding, not only in the Netherlands, but in Europe as a whole. This is evidenced by the series of severe floods over the past years, as well as by the events in Central Europe in recent weeks. In the years ahead, all the countries of the European Union will have to draw up adaptation strategies. The construction sector can make a significant contribution to this.
“It is clear that the construction industry should play an important role in the realisation of any adaptation plans for the physical environment. But in my view the industry should play an even bigger part. It should use its innovative strength and know-how to help shape strategies, to be there right at the drawing board, to act instead of react,” according to Wim Kuijken.