The first step of the Climate Resilience Guide for cities and communities focuses on preparation. This foundational phase is critical for establishing a solid groundwork for effective climate adaptation strategies. It involves securing high-level political support, gathering comprehensive information, setting up necessary processes, and engaging with key stakeholders and the public. Each of these elements plays a vital role in ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive approach to building climate resilience.
Securing political support is essential for successful adaptation. This involves educating policymakers on the importance of proactive adaptation measures, which can lead to long-term cost savings and improved public health. Collecting initial information is another crucial aspect, requiring the gathering of data on current and projected climate impacts, ongoing adaptation activities, and best practices from other communities. Collaboration with experts to fill knowledge gaps and enhance capacity is key.
Establishing robust adaptation processes within and beyond the municipality is also necessary. This includes forming dedicated adaptation units or integrating adaptation efforts into existing departments to ensure consistency and continuity. Identifying and securing human and technical resources is critical, as is ensuring financial support through various funding sources. Engaging stakeholders and communicating adaptation needs effectively to different target audiences are essential steps to foster collaboration and support.
Overall, the preparation phase ensures that cities and communities are well-equipped to tackle the challenges posed by climate change, laying the groundwork for a resilient and sustainable future.
For the successful implementation of this step, the following activities should be undertaken:
1.1 Gaining political backing for adaptation efforts
1.2 Gathering initial data and information
1.3 Establishing adaptation processes within and outside the municipality
1.4 Securing human and technical resources
1.5 Sourcing financial support and funding
1.6 Engaging and involving stakeholders
1.7 Effectively communicating adaptation plans to diverse audiences
1.8 Seeking additional support and resources
How to move ahead
The Urban Adaptation Map Viewer (https://climate-adapt.eea.europa.eu/en/knowledge/tools/urban-adaptation) from the European Environment Agency provides an overview of the current and future climate hazards facing European cities, including maps and related data. It is a useful tool for gathering initial data and raising awareness about climate hazards.
A good place to start with for a broad overview of the issues at stake is the guide Strategy for Climate Resilient Communities of Europe developed by the MISSION CE CLIMATE partners have developed a methodology for implementing a comprehensive Risk and Vulnerability Assessment. It can be downloaded from the project’s website (www.interreg-central.eu/projects/mission-ce-climate/) as well as from the www.climatehub.si platform.
