This resource provides guidance for cities that are seeking to adapt to the effects of climate change. It covers the topics of disaster risk reduction, nature regeneration, just resilience and wellbeing, and financing. The document was produced by the European Covenant of Mayors, following a two-year pilot programme launched under the 2021 EU Adaptation Strategy to assist local and regional authorities across Europe in implementing climate adaptation measures. This programme was called the ‘Policy Support Facility.’ The emphasis was on translating adaptation planning into tangible actions. Key aspects of the approach to gathering these insights were national workshops, peer exchanges, and technical expertise to equip cities with the tools needed to build climate resilience.
You can check out the full resource here, read the summary below, or click here to read it in Bulgarian, Italian, Portuguese, or Spanish.
Disaster risk reduction
The rate of climate-related disasters in Europe has nearly doubled over the past 20 years, exacerbating social and economic inequalities. Vulnerable communities are the hardest hit, while cities and regions face escalating economic losses due to climate extremes, €650 billion between 1980 and 2022. The Covenant of Mayors provided support to 13 cities, helping them implement measures such as flood controls and climate shelters. By doing so, these cities increased their resilience to events like droughts, storms, and heatwaves.
Nature regeneration
Nature-based solutions, such as ecological corridors and green urban networks, were identified as ‘no regret’ options that simultaneously provide environmental, social, and economic benefits. The EU has also highlighted the need for long-term biodiversity recovery, with ambitious goals to prevent the loss of green urban spaces by 2030 and increase urban greenery by 5% by 2050.
Just resilience and well-being
Ensuring that climate adaptation measures are socially just is essential. This guide highlights the importance of addressing the needs of vulnerable communities in order to avoid ‘maladaptation,’ where risks are inadvertently shifted to already disadvantaged groups. Climate actions should be aimed at improving climate justice and ensuring that the benefits of resilience-building are shared equitably.
Financing
Enabling the financial environment for adaptation action is a significant challenge, with cities and regions often struggling to access and attract funding. However, there are more innovative financial mechanisms available, like pooled investment funds, climate bonds, and public-private partnerships. These could be ideal for supporting adaptation measures. Data collection and political leadership are essential to inform and unlock financial resources.
Discover more with the full document here.
Go to resource
