This is one of the most interesting stories I’ve come across in some time — not least because of all the discussion surrounding Katrina, Rita, and the planned rebuilding of New Orleans and other areas along the Gulf Coast.
Apparently, the Dutch (many of whom live in populous areas below sea level) are experimenting with amphibious houses that can float to accommodate rising flood waters.
I’m not sure if it’s the right solution for New Orleans, or if Gulf Coast residents will someday live in floating houses (which could still be destroyed by hurricanes), but other parts of the world — notably poor, high-density ones — could surely benefit from some of the visionary work being done in the Netherlands.