Climate change is one of the most discussed and worrying problems of our time. This phenomenon causes long-term consequences, primarily an increase in the average global temperature. (more…)

A new study suggests that the cooling potential of greenery decreases in sweltering conditions. Many cities have taken initiatives to plant more trees to help combat climate-induced urban warming. However, these bold planting efforts may not be as effective in solving this problem as we once thought.

A study by UNSW Sydney researchers Kai Gao, Dr. Jei Feng and Scientia Professor Mattheos (Mat) Santamouris found that in extremely hot conditions, the benefit of trees is severely limited in moderating the heat. Findings published in journal Sustainable Cities and Society show that conventional climate models overestimated the cooling capacity of trees during heat by 60 %. (Ben Knight, University of New South Wales, more at phys.org)

The Mission Implementation Platform (MIP4Adapt) supports European regional and local authorities in preparing and planning their climate resilience adaptation pathways. For charter signatories, MIP4Adapt facilitates a community of practice and provides technical assistance that enables regions and local authorities to:

• Use your existing climate vulnerability and risk assessments to develop climate change adaptation plans and finance and implement climate change adaptation solutions
• Identify suitable climate change adaptation demonstration projects and identify and obtain financial support for their implementation
• Stimulate the involvement and mobilization of citizens and stakeholders in inclusive approaches to climate change adaptation.

(More on climate-adapt.eea.europa.eu)

While European countries have made considerable progress in implementing climate change adaptation policies, the pace and scope of adaptation measures must be increased and expanded to cover more areas such as health, agriculture and forestry. A review of the European Environment Agency's (EEA) online platform Climate-ADAPT, published today, shows that sharing examples of adaptation measures can support learning across the EU, Member States as well as regional and local authorities to help companies better prepare on the climate. to change. (More on climate-adapt.eea.europa.eu)

Ensuring the well-being of citizens while reducing resource consumption has proven to be a huge challenge. Policy makers in the European Union want to identify new approaches to providing resources that ensure the well-being of citizens without causing excessive environmental burden.

A study carried out in five EU countries concluded that in an effort to re-evaluate and rework the funding systems, instead of economic growth, the satisfaction of citizens' needs should come to the fore.

“To achieve the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement, we must change the current unsustainable patterns of production and consumption in the four central systems of food supply, mobility, housing and leisure. Our research sought to identify key structural barriers to change. (Bianca Schröder, more at phys.org)

According to data from the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), the Earth just experienced its warmest day in recent history. On July 22, 2024, the daily global average temperature reached a new record in the ERA5* data set of 17.16 °C. This surpasses the previous records of 17.09°C, which were set just the day before, on July 21, 2024, and 17.08°C, which were set a year earlier, on July 6, 2023.

Based on data released by C3S on 25 July, Monday 22 July was the warmest day in the ERA5 data set that begins in 1940. The temperature on 23 July was very similar at 17.15°C**. While the temperature on July 21, 2024 (17.09 °C) was almost indistinguishable from the previous record of 17.08 °C set on July 6, 2023, the difference between these and the new record (17.16 °C) set on July 22 is greater than typical differences. in day-to-day variations between alternative datasets. (More at climate.copernicus.eu)

Climate change represents one of the most fundamental challenges facing contemporary society. It not only has a negative impact on the environment, but also affects the economy, health and social structures. In order to effectively mitigate the consequences of these changes, it is necessary to focus on collective awareness and the creation of synergies between public and private entities.

Collective awareness: The basis for effective solutions

Collective consciousness is the process by which groups of people, communities or organizations share the same values and goals, leading to joint action and deeds. In the context of climate change, it is essential that individuals and organizations understand the seriousness of the problem, its effects on the environment and society, and in their own way contribute to its solution.

Support for collective awareness can be achieved through education, awareness campaigns and local projects that motivate residents to actively engage in environmental protection. Cooperation with local schools, non-profit organizations and community centers plays a key role here. Various initiatives, such as cleaning actions, tree-planting days or local markets with ecological products, can significantly strengthen the awareness and activity of citizens.

Synergies between public and private entities

Cooperation between the public and private sectors is essential to achieve effective and sustainable solutions. Each of these segments has its own strengths that can complement and support the success of the other. Public institutions have the powers and access to resources, while the private sector brings innovation and flexibility.

An example of synergy can be a partnership in the development and implementation of renewable energy sources. The city and entrepreneurs can jointly invest in solar parks, which not only contributes to the reduction of CO2 emissions, but also to economic growth in regional communities. Such initiatives can also create a new workforce and provide employment opportunities for local residents.

Sustainable development and long-term planning

Mitigating the consequences of climate change requires long-term and systematic approaches. Environmental protection plans that are enshrined in legislation and supported by local communities and businesses have the potential to create a stable and sustainable environment for future generations. It is important that the declared goals focus not only on current needs, but also on long-term benefits for society and the planet.

Mitigation of the consequences of climate change is not only a question of technology and investments, but above all a question of the value system that we uphold as a society. Fostering collective awareness and creating synergies between public and private actors are essential steps to face this challenge together. It doesn't matter if we are individuals, organizations or institutions - each of us has a role in this important task and together we can create a positive future. (Co2AI)

Prior to the adoption of the Paris Agreement in 2015, recognizing the need for global efforts to adapt to climate change was a major challenge, (more…)

Communities for Climate (C4C) is a European Commission initiative that supports local action against climate change by supporting community-led projects. By providing financial, technical and strategic assistance, C4C supports innovative and sustainable solutions adapted to local needs and supports action at the local level. This initiative not only mitigates climate impacts, but also promotes a culture of resilience and sustainability that serves as a model for wider change across Europe. (More on ec.europa.eu)

Climate change, which is a consequence of human activity and global warming, significantly affects global weather patterns. Among the areas most affected are monsoon patterns, especially in regions where monsoon rains are crucial for daily life and agriculture. Changing these patterns has many consequences, including a significant impact on public health. We are increasingly concerned about the increase in respiratory diseases, which are directly linked to changing environmental conditions. A shift in monsoon patterns significantly affects the health of the respiratory system for a number of reasons.

During dry periods, which are the result of changed climate cycles, the concentration of dust and other particles in the air increases significantly. This increase in air pollution leads to worsening of respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and bronchitis. Changeable weather also facilitates the spread of respiratory diseases. For example, after heavy rains, mold can grow in wet and humid soil, which worsens respiratory problems. Standing water after rains also increases the risk of diseases such as dengue fever and malaria, which are carried by mosquitoes and other vectors, and these diseases have a strong impact on the respiratory system.

Prevention and adaptation

Establishing early warning systems can help communities prepare for extreme weather events and mitigate the negative health effects they cause. These systems can warn of impending floods, cyclones or extended periods of drought, allowing proactive measures to be taken.

The development of cleaner technologies and stricter enforcement of air quality regulations can help reduce the negative effects of pollution on respiratory health. Campaigns to increase public awareness of the health risks associated with poor air quality can also trigger behavior change.

Strengthening the capacities of health systems to cope with the increase in respiratory diseases is essential. This includes wider availability of medicines, improved diagnostic tools and training for health professionals to manage climate-sensitive health problems.

Tips for aftercare for respiratory problems

1. Make sure your home has adequate ventilation to prevent mold growth, but avoid direct exposure to cold, damp air.

2. Use a dehumidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels and reduce mold and dust mite growth.

3. During prolonged rains when humidity and pollution increase, stay indoors to minimize exposure.

4. Always have an inhaler or other rescue medication on hand.

5. Avoid construction zones where there may be more dust and pollutants. (Co2AI)

The European Commission has presented a new brochure that contains a series of innovative projects focused on the EU's two main missions: Adaptation to climate change and (more…)

The European Commission announced the launch of the new Climate City Capital Hub, a new international funding source, at the Cities Mission 2024 conference held on 25 and 26 June in Valencia. The aim of the project is to strengthen cities within the EU mission of climate neutral and smart cities.

Thanks to the EU Cities Mission Label, cities will have access to financial advice in cooperation with the advisory services of the European Investment Bank (EIB), to structure their financial needs in order to understand the different ways of financing projects, including pooling projects and launching projects for a spectrum of capital providers. These include public and private sector lenders and investors, such as philanthropic and corporate capital, as well as innovative financing options such as crowdfunding and sustainability bonds. The hub will also support the deal-making process. (Samuel Balassa, more at ceenergynews.com)

With the increasing intensity of climate change, more frequent and more severe extreme weather events such as floods and heat waves, it is necessary to increase the resistance of cities to these changes. (more…)

A new EEA briefing paper "Preparing society for climate risks in Europe" presents lessons from the Climate-ADAPT and Observatory case studies, a diverse set of examples of adaptation measures implemented across Europe. The briefing shows how case studies inspire and help companies better prepare for climate change, while highlighting the need to step up adaptation measures and actions across all policy sectors and governance levels to address escalating climate risks. (More on climate-adapt.eea.europa.eu)

of the European Commission to develop a high-precision digital model of the Earth for monitoring and simulating natural phenomena, hazards and related human activities, including future information on adaptation to climate change.

Read more on the website Destination Earth.

Today's cities face enormous challenges. Climate change and the negative impacts of ongoing urbanization are intertwined and affect our quality of life. City managers must make quick and accurate decisions regarding adaptation measures. One might therefore ask, how can we effectively support the decision-making process in cities? That's the question he's looking for an answer to LIFECOOLCITY project.

Climate change and its impact on cities

One of the main challenges facing modern cities is anthropogenic climate change. It is estimated that by the middle of this century, 80 % of the European population will live in urban areas. The LIFECOOLCITY project analyzes the urban environment and its problems resulting from anthropogenic climate change.

The project focuses on providing tools that will effectively support the blue-green infrastructure management process by recognizing the state of five factors that build the adaptation potential of the city, namely: land closure, urban heat island, state of blue infrastructure, state of green infrastructure and state of biodiversity. It is worth noting that blue-green infrastructure (BGI) plays a key role in mitigating the negative effects of climate change. (More on themayor.eu)

WHO is organizing a series of technical webinars on various climate change and health topics to build capacity for implementation at the country level. These webinars will include training, experience sharing, interactive activities and group discussions.

The first series of webinars will explore specific topics related to:

• Conducting climate change vulnerability assessments and health and adaptation
• Development of a national adaptation plan in the field of health
• Access to climate finance for health
• Climate-resistant and environmentally sustainable medical facilities

(More on who.int)

From research that informs smarter adaptation strategies to innovative projects that strengthen the resilience of our communities, each success story underscores the critical importance of adaptation in confronting the climate crisis.

The mission must now prioritize innovation, collaboration and knowledge sharing to develop and implement effective adaptation strategies that build resilience at all levels, from local communities to global ecosystems.

In April 2024, the Commission adopted  amendment  to the Horizon Europe 2023-2024 work program mobilizing previously unallocated funds to increase the 2024 budget by almost €1.4 billion to €7.3 billion.

This amendment includes an investment of almost EUR 650 million in EU missions, of which EUR 124 million has been earmarked for the EU Climate Change Adaptation Mission.

The deadline for all calls is September 18, 2024  and you can find more information about all the mission challenges  here.

• HORIZONT-MISS-2024-CLIMA-01-01​ :  Bringing accessible and actionable climate change adaptation solutions to the knowledge of regions and local authorities
• HORIZONT-MISS-2024-CLIMA-01-02​ :  Connecting the national level with involved regional and local levels (multi-level governance)
• HORIZONT-MISS-2024-CLIMA-01-03​ :  Develop and refine outcome indicators to measure progress in climate resilience at national, regional and local levels, including learning and feedback from the mission.
• HORIZON-MISS-2024-CLIMA-01-04 ​ Explore the complex interplay between climate and biodiversity crises towards systems approaches and solutions
• HORIZONT-MISS-2024-CLIMA-01-05​ :  Improve design for transformative approaches and build local capacity to implement affordable climate adaptation solutions
• HORIZONT-MISS-2024-CLIMA-01-06:  Demonstrating approaches to improve bankability of design solutions, focusing on co-benefits (mitigation and adaptation) to improve revenue streams
• HORIZONT-MISS-2024-CLIMA-01-07​ :  A sample of solutions especially suitable for rural areas and small/medium-sized local communities
• HORIZONT-MISS-2024-CLIMA-01-08​ :  A sample of the approaches of regions and local authorities aimed at increasing the resilience of the most vulnerable social groups to climate change (climate change resilience only)
• HORIZONT-MISS-2024-CLIMA-01-09​ :  Systemic and cross-sectoral climate change resilience solutions, adapted to the local needs of regions and local authorities.

Learning to live with the climate crisis. That's what we need to do, say many who want to learn from the recent flood. Just as we must learn to adapt to climate change, which demands a lot from us socially and ecologically. In the south, in the center, in the west and in the north of the country, everyone already knows: a severe weather warning on a mobile phone is not a vague forecast of storms, but a warning of the nearest possible disaster. Before the danger of death, before billions of damages, before the state of emergency. (The story of Joachim Müller-Jung, more at msn.com)