Measures to prevent natural disasters along the coast often focus on the protection of economically high-quality areas. The needs of vulnerable groups are not sufficiently taken into account. This leads to inequality in climate risks. Environmental scientist Toon Haer wants to use the Vidi funding to investigate how various measures positively and negatively influence this inequality. He will also investigate how various adaptation decisions by governments and households can lead to reduced inequality now and in the future.
Agent based models
Haer develops models, so-called agent-based models, which, using a computer simulation, provide better insight into how governments and households, among others, take adaptation measures against climate risks such as floods, droughts and wind storms. The model also provides insight into how adaptation decisions by governments influence those of households and vice versa. “With these models I can also show how a change in the degree of risk affects the choices for adaptation measures and how different characteristics of governments and households lead to different choices,” says Haer.
Empirical research
Haer combines this work with empirical research, in which he wants to use questionnaires, for example, to gain knowledge about the motives of people with different backgrounds, cultures and socio-economic status for taking or not taking certain adaptation measures. The results of this empirical research thus reinforce the effect of the models, and vice versa, the results of the models can support the empirical research.
Varied contribution
Throughout his career, Haer has contributed to several research projects. Such as 'COASTMOVE', a project about adaptation and migration under the influence of sea level rise. Or 'Strong roots, strong women', with a focus on nature-based adaptation and strengthening the position of women in relation to flood risks. The young researcher is also a member of RED&BLUE, where VU Amsterdam looks at the impact of wind storms and hail in the Netherlands.
Vidi
Vidi focusses on experienced researchers who have already conducted successful research for several years after their PhD. Vidi, together with the Veni and Vici grants, is part of the NWO Talent Programme. The NWO has awarded 97 experienced researchers a Vidi grant of 800,000 euros.