Introduction to German Cases

Abstract

This chapter first offers a quick background into water-related extremes and climate change-related problems in North Rhine-Westphalia (Germany). This introduction is followed by a brief description of the responsibilities in water management at state and federal state level as well as at the municipal level to guide readers who are not familiar with water management structures in Germany. Subsequently, the chapter draws attention to the roles of urban drainage and urban planning in terms of rainwater disposal and flood protection in the context of the responsibilities for municipal provision of basic services. The need for an integrated approach for rainwater management is highlighted. The introductory chapter into the German cases concludes with a summary of recent efforts in urban resilience and an understanding of the term “resilience” in Germany.