Successfully Second Part of the Kick-off Meeting within the NBS4Resilience Project

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 Outcomes

Co-Creation of Climate Resilient NBS in the IPA ADRION Region
Led 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 Governance

Mr. 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 Committee

The 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 Milestones

Following 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