Wim van Vierssen Knight of the Order of the Lion of the Netherlands

Van Vierssen was presented with the award during the symposium held on the occasion of his farewell as the CEO of KWR. On 29 May he also bade a ceremonial farewell as professor of Science System Assessment of the water-related research at the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences at Delft University of Technology.

Mayor Verhulst speech

Mayor Verhulst addressed the symposium participants with the following words:

‘Over the course of his entire career, Wim van Vierssen, in his various roles, has been engaged in the areas of water, environment and innovation. He has applied his knowledge of water management to the solution of Dutch and global water problems, based on self-conceived innovative concepts which have led to sustainable improvements.

‘Besides his function as the CEO of KWH Water, he has worked, among others, for the Netherlands Institute of Ecology, the International Institute for Hydraulic and Environmental Engineering, and Wageningen University & Research. Professor Van Vierssen has participated in the development of innovative collaborations between private and public parties. Examples include the amalgamation of three different ecological institutes to form the NIOO, the achievement of the UNESCO status for the IHE, the development and supervision of a number of large national research initiatives, and the establishment of the TKI Water Technology Foundation, the Allied Waters Foundation and Allied Waters B.V.

‘Through his impressive scientific research and his strong societal engagement, he has made an extremely important and distinctive contribution in the areas of water sciences, water technology and water management. Moreover, Mr Van Vierssen’s effort in establishing international connections and excellent knowledge transfer has been of great significance, both for the national and international communities.’

Individuals honoured by the Order of the Lion of the Netherlands have distinguished themselves through their outstanding artistic achievement, exceptional scientific (research) achievement, exceptional technical innovations, or exceptional innovative entrepreneurship.