Globally, various models have been developed to simulate flood events, with each having its specific advantages and disadvantages. This can have significant impact on the accuracy of model output. To advance the state of current global flood modelling and move towards more integrated approaches, I have developed a computational framework allowing for coupling a suite of models, model components, and processes. Even though the framework merely focuses on riverine flooding at the moment, it is designed in a modular way and therefore it is possible to add even more models. This way, it will be possible to move even further towards integrated inundation modelling.

What is the impact of the Sand Engine on fresh groundwater resources? Most coastal regions around the world rely on groundwater as their primary source of fresh water, but at many sites this groundwater is threatened by coastal flooding. One of the potential responses to protect (vulnerable) coastal fresh groundwater resources, is to actively protect the coast against erosion and flooding with beach nourishments (such as the Sand Engine). However, this raises some questions: What is the potential increase in fresh groundwater resources over a long period? What is the impact of tides, waves and storms on the fresh groundwater lens? What were the changes in the volume of fresh groundwater in the study area since the construction of the Sand Engine, and which processes drove these changes? The (partial) answers to these and other questions are written in my PhD thesis.