Dutch new nature: (re)landscaping the Millingerwaard

Maartje Bulkens, Hamzah Muzaini, Claudio Minca

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This paper analyses how discourses of “new nature” have been implemented in the Dutch context – as a front runner of broader “rewilding” processes throughout Europe – frequently tied to imperatives of water safety. Drawing on the specific case of the Millingerwaard, we first examine how such discourses have materially, as well as socially, transformed the landscape in question. The paper then explores how these transformations have erstwhile affected those living in the area – in ways that are perceived, positively or negatively – according to varied groups of residents and users. In doing so, we critically reflect not only on “new nature” as it has been conceived within planning processes, and empirically practiced, in the Netherlands, but also how it is described and experienced by those whose lives are intimately tied to the landscape.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)808-825
Number of pages18
JournalJournal of Environmental Planning and Management
Volume59
Issue number5
Early online date10 Jun 2015
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 10 Jun 2015

Cite this