In response, the Interreg Central Europe MISSION CE CLIMATE project has developed a comprehensive strategy to help communities across the region achieve climate resilience by 2030.
This strategy is built upon the vision set forth by the Mission Board for Adaptation to Climate Change, including Societal Transformation, under the mission “A Climate Resilient Europe” (European Commission, 2020). Its objective is to prepare Central European communities for climate disruptions while accelerating the transition toward a more just and climate-resilient continent. By 2030, the strategy aims not only to enable communities to withstand climate-related challenges, but also to seize opportunities for growth in a changing environment.
The strategy integrates three main systems crucial to climate resilience: the political and governance system, the socio-economic and financing system and the environmental and climate system.
These systems are supported by five horizontal mission areas of research and information, identified as key enablers for fostering climate resilience:
1. Facilitating inclusive and deliberative governance processes for transitions (referred to the Political and governance system)
2. Strengthening sustainable and circular local economies (referred to the Socio-economic and financing system)
3. Mobilizing funds and resources (referred to the Socio-economic and financing system)
4. Providing access to data, knowledge, and digital services (referred to the Environment and climate system)
5. Enhancing education, communications, and understanding of behavioral change (referred to the Environment and climate system)
The strategy suggests a holistic approach that integrates the three systems in a long-term vision, and that can be briefly be summarized as it follows:
Governance: the cornerstone of climate action
Effective climate governance is essential for coordinated and sustainable action. Inclusive decision-making processes that foster collaboration among key stakeholders, such as government agencies, private sector organizations, and civil society groups are needed as well as enhanced transparency and accountability in climate-related initiatives.
Socio-economic foundations of climate resilience
The strategy will help communities identify financing options to support local resilience projects, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder progress. By strengthening local economies through circular and sustainable practices, Central European communities can build economic models that are resilient to both climate and market disruptions.
Empowering communities with data, knowledge and behavioral change: shaping the future
Access to reliable data and knowledge is fundamental for effective climate planning. The strategy promotes the use of digital services and localized data to identify tailored adaptation and mitigation solutions. By fostering integrated, cross-sectoral approaches, the strategy seeks to mitigate climate impacts while generating co-benefits for communities and ecosystems. Furthermore, education and communication are central in driving societal change. A better understanding of climate-related risks, opportunities, and behaviors will empower individuals and communities to make informed decisions and adopt practices that enhance resilience.
As one of the key outputs of the MISSION CE CLIMATE project, this strategy is published in English https://www.interreg-central.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Strategy-for-Climate-Resilient-Communities-of-Central-Europe-D1.4.1.pdf and will be widely disseminated across Central Europe through digital channels and conferences. By offering a realistic and actionable roadmap for communities to achieve climate resilience by 2030, the strategy represents a significant step toward a more sustainable, just, and climate-resilient future for Central Europe.