Climate change adaptation in European cities
Building resilience through local action
Climate change is no longer a distant concern; it’s already impacting communities across Europe. From the floods in central Europe to the heatwaves in the Mediterranean, it’s clear that our cities and regions must act quickly to build resilience.
In fact, today, I attended an event that highlighted the importance of community-based adaptation and resilience—how local action can make a real difference in facing climate risks. The seminar focused on practical measures, including creating local emergency plans, building strong community ties, and developing sustainable food projects to combat the impacts of climate change.
Quick Guides on Natural Hazards were designed to be practical and accessible. Each guide focuses on a specific hazard, breaking down complex challenges into concise, engaging formats. With infographics, checklists, case studies, and key resources, these guides are more than just reports—they are tools for action. Graphic design by Agata Smok, 2025
As a communication designer and someone passionate about sharing ideas that can spark positive change, I found myself reflecting on how these solutions could be shared beyond expert circles.
Resilience is something that affects everyone, from the local government officials to the everyday residents of a city, and communicating strategies in an engaging way is crucial.
One region making progress is Central Macedonia, Greece. With support from EU funding, the region is implementing adaptation measures to reduce future climate impacts. These include integrating climate-proof strategies into urban planning and financing projects like waste management and infrastructure upgrades. What stood out to me was the importance of community involvement—engaging local farmers, neighborhood groups, and residents in decision-making.
I was particularly inspired by the idea of using small-scale, pilot actions at the local level. These projects can be as simple as creating urban gardens to provide fresh food or setting up heat shelters for vulnerable populations during extreme weather events. It’s these grassroots initiatives that give communities the tools to respond to climate change in their own way, without waiting for top-down directives.
Of course, action can’t happen without the right funding and resources. Central Macedonia has tapped into a variety of funding mechanisms like the ERDF, the LIFE Program, and Horizon 2000 to support local adaptation projects. These funds help to finance initiatives like smart urban planning, waste management, and climate-proofing of infrastructure, which are all essential to the region’s long-term survival. By integrating climate-proof strategies into their broader planning, Central Macedonia is making sure that future development is sustainable and resilient.
After the seminar, I found myself thinking about the importance of collaboration in these efforts. How do we ensure that everyone, even those with limited time or resources, can get involved?
Ultimately, climate resilience is a collective effort. By fostering collaboration, using resources wisely, and empowering local communities, Europe can build stronger, more resilient cities that are better prepared for the future.
It’s not just about being informed; it’s about being empowered to take action.
Whether it’s through workshops, community meetings, or citizen surveys, finding ways to make the process inclusive and engaging is key. And ultimately, when the community feels like they have a stake in the solution, they’re more likely to work together to build a more resilient future.
The steps taken by so many EU regions are both inspiring and practical. As we face the increasing reality of climate change, it’s clear that the solutions won’t come from a single entity but from a collective effort—one where communities play a vital role. By fostering collaboration, using funding wisely, and empowering local groups, Europe’s cities and regions can prepare for the future and face the challenges of climate change with strength and resilience.
