The Groene Hart and Lower Holland, the NetherlandsSubsidence of peat areas has received ample attention lately from researchers and policy-makers, following the 2002 study conducted by Vista on behalf of the Structuurschema Groene Ruimte 2 (Green Space Structural Outline Plan). 

This study showed that the subsidence will ultimately result in the disappearance of the peat pasture landscape. Peat areas without a clay or sealing layer are the most vulnerable. The cause of the subsidence lies in the structural lowering of water levels for agriculture. Various strategies have been developed that present a variety of pictures of the future. The conclusion was that sustainable preservation of the peat requires fundamentally different water management, which will offer new opportunities for nature and recreation.