The Gentle Art of Coevolution: a complexity theory perspective on decision making over estuaries in Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands
Doctoral Thesis by Lasse M. Gerrits
Abstract
Seaports in Europe are constantly engaged in fierce competition over market share and one of the strategies utilised to survive this competition is to increase the capacity of the ports. Such a strategy can include the extension of quaysides, the building of new terminals and the construction of better road and railway connections between the port and the hinterland. The maritime connection between the port and the sea is another important factor that affects the ability of the port stay competitive. Since new ships are designed with larger drafts, port authorities are obliged to increase the dimensions of the navigation channel in order to allow the ships safe passage. After all, if ships do not fit into the channel, they can never reach the port.
