Rethinking water systems under increasing pressure: Drought governance through water allocation and circular economy of water approaches in the Netherlands

Climate change is putting increasing pressure on freshwater resources, including in traditionally water-rich countries, such as the Netherlands. As water becomes scarcer, difficult choices arise over who gets access to water, for which uses, and how these choices can be considered fair. This PhD research examines how water governance in the Netherlands is responding to increasing water scarcity. It focuses on two complementary responses: how water is allocated during droughts, and how water can be (re)used to reduce pressure on freshwater resources. The research combines perspectives of water professionals with citizens’ views to understand how these changes are experienced and implemented. The research shows that, despite growing ambitions for more sustainable and circular water management, change remains largely gradual and shaped by existing institutions, infrastructure, laws and economic arrangements. At the same time, increasing scarcity, societal expectations and concerns about fairness are challenging established ways of managing water and may create opportunities for further change.