Krijn Nugter

Once there were dikes

A study of how Māori philosophy can be an inspiration for climate adaptation strategies
 

Climate change challenges us to consider landscape adaptation strategies. For delta regions like the Netherlands, sea level rise poses a challenge, while the country has historically been protected from water threats through technological innovations. The latest climate predictions from the IPCC indicate that in the longer term (2300), sea levels could rise by 17 meters. This places technological innovations in a different context than the usual predictions focusing on 2100. Indigenous knowledge can provide insights into how collaboration can be sought with natural dynamics, rather than seeing them as a threat. This research explores how Māori philosophy can be an inspiration for new types of adaptation strategies. To test this, an agricultural polder area in New Zealand has been used as a case study, and is transformed into a landscape that is mostly shaped by nature with the use of natural dynamics.  

The project has been both qualitatively as quantitatively researched. Unlike typical landscape architectural projects, this project area was initially studied through anthropological fieldwork. Various interviews with (local) Māori, scientists, rangers, or officials determined the significance and value of the area. It is noticeable that there is societal tension over land use and ownership that comes from the colonial history.  

Inspired by Māori philosophy, three guiding principles have been formulated concerning the functioning of the natural system, the carrying capacity of the landscape, and the cultural-historical value of the landscape. From there, an adaptive planning strategy has been developed, which guides the transformation of the project area, emphasizing collaboration with natural dynamics and a restraint from human interventions. This results in a cyclical planning process where planning uncertainties are part of the strategy. The plan therefore has no fixed final image. Not only the natural dynamics are reintroduced, but also culturally and historically valuable Māori sites.   

This project illustrates how an agricultural area can transform into a ‘Māori landscape’. The outcome is a restart of the natural process of reclamation in this area and thus the ability to adapt to sea level rise. Natural vegetation processes and the original landscape slowly return, along with Māori culture and values. 

Graduation date: 19 March 2024
Graduation committee: Lodewijk van Nieuwenhuijze (mentor), Bruno Doedens, Alexander Sverdlov
Additional members for the exam: Kim Kool, Roel van Gerwen