Since 1100 the Dutch relied on their continuously expanding extensive dike system for keeping dry feet and dry goods. But how durable and safe is this traditional dike concept, now the sea-level is rising and rainfall patterns seem to change? Can they continue to raise their dikes in the future...

Impact assessment and project appraisal are taking a participatory track but the potential gain from the information, creativity and values stakeholders bring to the process is seldom realized. At issue is the design and preliminary screening of alternatives, which remains the domain of experts:...