Base Map of the Netherlands Natural System

Would you like to climate-proof your area in order to ensure that the living environment remains healthy and safe, even in a more extreme climate? Then you would be wise to adopt the water and soil system as a guiding principle in the planning process. This requires knowledge of the landscape and of the underlying natural system. Here, the Base Map of the Natural System can help you. It will tell you which landscape types and landscape units your area comprises, identify the climate effects to which it is prone and explain the opportunities for climate-proofing the area.

For whom?

Everyone engaged in spatial planning can use the map. Researchers, consultancies and experts can utilise the basic information for further studies. Decision-makers in the field of spatial planning at the local, regional or national levels can use the information to make spatial choices. In addition, the map is very helpful if you wish to involve multiple scale levels in the dialogue on spatial choices.

How can it be used?

The Base Map of the Natural System visualises the climate threats affecting an area and identifies opportunities for climate adaptation. Thus, the map can be used to support and substantiate spatial considerations. The map is intended to strengthen the guiding role of water and the soil in regional spatial planning processes, in order to boost regional climate resilience. The map has a predominantly indicative and agenda-setting value. It is best used for regional planning issues up to a scale of 1:25,000. Smaller-scale issues will additionally require local information.

Who has developed the Base Map of the Natural System?

The Base Map of the Natural System has been developed by Wageningen Environmental Research, Geo-Inspiratie expertise centre, GrondRR consultancy and Climate Adaptation Services. It is one of the tools contained in the Climate Impact Atlas.

Date of publication

The Base Map of the Natural System was updated in January 2024.