Climate Adaptation in the Dutch Hospitality Sector

We still know little about how tourism and recreation in the Netherlands are dealing with climate change, and the knowledge that does exist is fragmented. CELTH and NBTC therefore started a study into how Dutch tourism is preparing for a changing climate, supported by the Ministry of Economic Affairs.

The study maps what is already happening in the Netherlands and contributes to scientific insight into how tourism can adapt, which steps are already being taken, and what support is needed to become more sustainable. The results are relevant for policymakers and entrepreneurs — such as the National Council for Recreation and Tourism (LRRT) and Royal Dutch Hospitality Association (KHN) — as well as international bodies such as the OECD and UN Tourism.

The team carried out a literature review and interviewed people in parts of the Netherlands where the effects of climate change are already noticeable — coastal areas dealing with sea-level rise, or regions with heavy rainfall. Amsterdam, Limburg and the Northern Netherlands were among the chosen cases, building on earlier research in Zeeland. The interviews were built around three questions: What is changing? How are people and businesses responding? And who helps them? Interviewees came from practice: hospitality, campsites, transport, attractions and local government. The KNMI climate scenarios served as the guiding framework, and all data from literature and interviews was carefully analysed and compared.

The project team consists of researchers from several universities of applied sciences and universities. From NHL Stenden, Anke Arts (coordination), Elena Cavagnaro, Marie Hartmann and Albert Postma are involved, alongside colleagues from Wageningen University & Research, Breda University of Applied Sciences, RUG Campus Fryslân and NBTC. Students also contributed to data collection and analysis.

The effects of climate change are already noticeable: too wet, too dry, too hot — and most participants expect this to worsen. Many entrepreneurs are already taking measures: more than 400 adaptations were mentioned, from sustainable energy to heat plans. Yet many consider these steps fragmented and insufficient, and the need for knowledge and cooperation is great.

Help often comes through networks, but participants also see a bigger role for government. Specific knowledge is often lacking, which makes investing difficult. Participants shared more than 30 challenges, as many barriers, over 40 dilemmas and 50 organisations involved — far more than previously thought. The urgency is high, and so is the willingness to get to work.