Meet Vanessa Völz: Exploring cost-benefit strategies for coastal adaptation.

Coastal adaptation is a crucial step in mitigating the impacts of rising sea levels, but how can we determine the most effective and economically sound solutions? Vanessa Völz, a Doctoral Researcher at the Global Climate Forum (GCF), is tackling this challenge head-on as part of the CoCliCo project. Her work focuses on conducting cost-benefit analyses to evaluate optimal adaptation strategies for over 41,000 coastal floodplains in Europe.

From mathematics to coastal adaptation

With a background in mathematics and economics, Vanessa has been working on European and German research projects since 2020. Her academic journey led her to a PhD where she applies quantitative methods to real-world climate challenges. Vanessa’s passion for coastal environments was sparked during her time living along the shores of California and Iceland, inspiring her to combine her analytical expertise with climate adaptation research.

Optimizing adaptation strategies

Vanessa’s research aims to determine where and when different adaptation options, such as protective infrastructure (e.g., dikes), strategic retreat (e.g., relocating away from the coastline), or accommodation measures (e.g., flood-proofing buildings), are economically most preferable. By identifying optimal responses for each coastal floodplain, her work contributes to informed decision-making in climate policy and urban planning.

Collaboration in the CoCliCo project

One of the most exciting aspects of Vanessa’s role in CoCliCo is working alongside researchers from across Europe to develop a comprehensive climate service for coastal regions. The project’s collaborative nature fosters interdisciplinary approaches to tackling sea level rise and coastal risks, ensuring that research translates into actionable insights.

Driving impact

By highlighting the economic advantages of proactive adaptation, Vanessa hopes her research will encourage policymakers and stakeholders to take timely action against coastal flooding. Her findings can provide the necessary justification for implementing protective measures, ultimately contributing to resilient coastal communities.

Beyond research: Vanessa’s passions

Outside of her work, Vanessa enjoys dancing, horseback riding, swimming, and painting with watercolors. Her diverse interests reflect her appreciation for both analytical challenges and creative expression.

Connect with Vanessa

Interested in learning more about Vanessa’s work? Follow her on LinkedIn and explore her research in recent publications, including her latest study: Economic Optimization of Coastal Adaptation Strategies.