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Urban adaptation to climate change in Europe. André Jol, 12th EMS & 9th ECAC, 12 Sep 2012. Vulnerabilities and adaptation - isn’t it a local issue?. 75% of Europeans live in cities. … and most of Europe’s economic wealth is generated. Heat waves in Europe…. Urban heat island effect.
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Urban adaptation to climatechangein Europe André Jol, 12th EMS & 9th ECAC, 12 Sep 2012
Current approach Guidance to cities Single city studies Collection of adaptation measures But what about Europe?
Cities depend on national and European decisions Floods in France – Getting the national frameworksupportiv for urban adaptation
national Pillar: Policy coherence cohesion transport economy employment local environment …
Climate Adaptation Platform Climate-ADAPT • Supports governmental decision-makers developing/implementing climate change adaptation strategies, policies and actions • Guided by advise from countries (agencies and ministries), Adaptation Steering Group (chaired by DG CLIMA), other organisations (e.g. WHO Europe), experts EU FP projects • Launched 23 March 2012 (DG CLIMA, EEA) • EEA to maintain, with JRC, and supported by ETC CCA supports http://climate-adapt.eea.europa.eu
Key messages • Climate change exacerbates existing socio-economic pressures (urbanization, competing demands for water, increasing number of homes, industry and infrastructure in flood-prone areas) • Cities face specific challenges(e.g. urban heat island, soil sealing) • Adaptation now can lower (damage) costs in future • Investments for urban infrastructure should include adaptation (e.g. improve water retention, urban drainage, sewage systems, building standards) • Green infrastructure (forests, parks, wetlands, green walls/roofs) and‘soft’ measures (e.g. sharing information, capacity building, participation of stakeholders) • Support from national and European level is crucial(e.g. legal and institutional frameworks, funds)