Author: Центар за Еколошка Демократија ФЛОРОЗОН

On December 18, 2024, the second part of the Kick-off Meeting for the NBS4RESILIENCE project was successfully held online. Organized by the Development Agency of the City of Prijedor (PREDA) as the lead partner, this meeting gathered project partners from across the Adriatic-Ionian region to further align on project implementation, governance, and strategic planning.Key Discussions and OutcomesCo-Creation of Climate Resilient NBS in the IPA ADRION RegionLed by Mr. Darko Ferčej (ISD, Slovenia), this session focused on the role of Climate Resilient Forums (CRFs) as a core mechanism for engaging stakeholders in developing and implementing Nature-Based Solutions (NBS). These forums will:
Serve as local advisory bodies for public decision-makers
Facilitate the co-creation of climate resilience action plans
Act as catalysts for changing mindsets and increasing citizen participation in climate adaptation efforts
Support pilot projects in six countries targeting climate risks such as floods, erosion, extreme heat, and wildfires

✔ Integration of NBS4RESILIENCE into Standards, Policies, and GovernanceMr. Tadej Žurman (POR, Croatia) presented an overview of WP3, focusing on integrating climate resilience into ISO and TC standards, and developing governance models that incorporate Nature-Based Solutions into policy frameworks. The main objectives of this work package include:
Drafting policy recommendations for integrating NBS into climate transition strategies
Establishing a governance guidebook to support public authorities in implementing NBS
Developing proposals for incorporating NBS into international climate resilience standards

✔ Establishing the Steering CommitteeThe governance structure of the project was solidified through the establishment of the Steering Committee, which will oversee the project’s progress and provide strategic guidance. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will be finalized by February 2025, outlining the framework for cooperation and the long-term sustainability of the project’s outcomes.Next Steps and Implementation MilestonesFollowing the successful Kick-off phase, the NBS4RESILIENCE project is now moving into the implementation phase, focusing on key actions that will drive climate resilience across the IPA ADRION region.The first major milestone is the finalization of the Climate Resilient Forum (CRF) Guide, led by PP3 – ISD, Slovenia. This guide will serve as a practical framework for establishing and operating CRFs, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement in nature-based climate solutions.From March to May 2025, the project will initiate the launch of Climate Resilient Forums (CRFs) in participating cities. These forums will function as collaborative platforms, bringing together local governments, businesses, academia, and civil society to address specific climate challenges and co-develop nature-based solutions.Simultaneously, partners will intensify engagement with policymakers to promote the integration of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) into existing local and national strategies. This will support the adoption of long-term climate resilience policies, ensuring that project outcomes contribute to sustainable environmental governance.Additionally, the project will organize capacity-building workshops tailored for public institutions, businesses, and civil society organizations. These sessions will enhance participants’ knowledge and equip them with the necessary skills to implement NBS-driven climate adaptation measures effectively.Learn more about the project: www.interreg-ipa-adrion.eu

On International Human Rights Day, December 10, 2024, the Faculty of Law “Iustinianus Primus” hosted a roundtable discussion titled “Environmental Human Rights and Environmental Justice – Promotion, Protection, and Advancement.” The event was held under the project “Integration of Environmental Justice in Higher Education,” implemented by the Center for Environmental Democracy FLOROZON in…

On November 8, 2024, the Kick-off Meeting of the NBS4RESILIENCE project was successfully held online, bringing together project partners from across the Adriatic-Ionian region. The meeting, hosted by the Development Agency of the City of Prijedor (PREDA) as the lead partner, set the stage for the project’s implementation by outlining objectives, responsibilities, and key steps moving forward.
About the NBS4Resilience ProjectThe NBS4RESILIENCE project, co-funded by the European Union through the Interreg IPA ADRION Programme, aims to enhance climate resilience in the region by implementing Nature-Based Solutions (NBS). By integrating science, policy, and community participation, the project seeks to reduce climate risks, foster ecosystem restoration, and promote sustainable adaptation strategiesKey Highlights of the Kick-off MeetingThroughout the meeting, several topics were discussed, ensuring a smooth and efficient start to project implementation.One of the key discussions focused on the introduction and objectives of the project, where the lead partner, PREDA, provided a detailed overview of the project’s goal, budget, duration, and expected impact. The presentation emphasized the urgent need for Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) to address climate risks in the Adriatic-Ionian region and highlighted the project’s role in pioneering innovative approaches to climate resilience.A major milestone discussed during the meeting was the establishment of Climate Resilient Forums (CRFs). These forums will act as local engagement platforms where citizens, experts, policymakers, and stakeholders will collaboratively design and implement climate adaptation strategies. CRFs will serve as knowledge-sharing hubs, fostering community participation in decision-making and ensuring that nature-based solutions are effectively integrated into local governance.The meeting also highlighted the implementation of pilot actions across six IPA ADRION countries, each addressing a specific climate challenge:
Flood prevention in Slovenia
Erosi
n and landslide risk reduction in Croatia
Heatwave mitigation in Montenegro
Drought and water flow regulation in Italy
Coastal resilience in Greece
Wildfire prevention in Bosnia & Herzegovina

Partners discussed the methodologies and expected outcomes of these pilot initiatives, ensuring that the solutions developed will be tested, evaluated, and replicated for broader impact.Another significant segment of the meeting was the discussion on Work Package responsibilities. Each partner outlined their role in implementing project activities, reporting progress, and coordinating with other stakeholders. The meeting served as an opportunity to clarify expectations, address potential challenges, and ensure that all partners are aligned with the project’s overall strategy.Lastly, the project management and communication strategy were formalized. The partners agreed on the establishment of a Steering Committee, which will oversee project progress and provide strategic guidance. Additionally, communication channels were introduced to enhance collaboration and ensure transparency across all project activities. The project’s visibility and dissemination strategy was also discussed, emphasizing the importance of reaching key audiences and stakeholders.Next StepsThe partners will reconvene for the second part of the Kick-off Meeting in December 2024. The project team will continue working on refining strategies, defining specific deliverables, and preparing for the implementation of pilot projects.Learn more about the project: www.interreg-ipa-adrion.eu