At the end of January, as part of the Danube-ADAPT project, we traveled from Košice to Cluj-Napoca, Romania, where partners from all countries in the Danube region gathered. Two days full of conversations, discussions, and experience-sharing showed that international cooperation can be not only professional but also personal and inspiring.
Right from the moment we arrived, a friendly atmosphere was noticeable. The hosts from the city and Babeș-Bolyai University prepared a space for open conversations, where we could share what works in our countries and the challenges we face when it comes to preparing for floods, droughts, heatwaves, and other impacts of climate change.
HOW WE PREPARE FOR EXTREME WEATHER
On the first day, we discussed data and maps showing where droughts, floods, or heatwaves might occur. Each partner presented their area of work – from Hungary through Romania to Slovakia – and highlighted the locations where they will test solutions, so-called pilot sites. For us at ARR Košice, this meant focusing, for example, on the Slovak Karst – an area prone to drought, with sensitive natural ecosystems and protected territories. Together with our partners from SHMÚ, we also concentrated on the lowland areas of Slovakia, which are already facing serious problems related to periods of drought and the long-term shortage of both groundwater and surface water.
WHAT CLIMATE RISKS WILL WE FOCUS ON IN EACH COUNTRY AND WHAT EXACTLY WILL WE ANALYZE ?
- In Romania, the risks are heatwaves and forest fires;
- Hungary is addressing droughts and floods;
- Ukraine is focusing on floods;
- Slovakia on drought;
- The Czech Republic is examining ecosystem damage;
- Slovenia and Croatia face various combinations of extremes.
Each country chose its primary focus, but other risks were also taken into account. In this way, the project becomes a practical guide for the entire Danube region, showing what works, where, and how.
FROM PLANS TO REAL MEASURES
On the second day, we looked at how ideas are turned into concrete measures. Each partner presented their pilot sites and the main challenges they are addressing there. For us, it was inspiring to see that the problems are often similar – and that solutions from one region can also be useful elsewhere.
CLUJ FROM THE INSIDE
Alongside the professional program, we also made time to explore the city. We walked through the historic square, admired both old buildings and modern architecture, and soaked in the atmosphere of a lively university center. The hosts also took us to a local brewery, where we observed the production of traditional Romanian beer. Over a glass of local lager, new ideas, tips, and cheerful memories were born.
PROJECT GOALS:
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Shared climate data database – create a database accessible to both experts and the public.
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Unified method for assessing territorial vulnerability – based on international standards (e.g., IPCC).
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Online platform for climate change adaptation – to support the planning and implementation of adaptation measures.
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Strengthening public institutions’ knowledge – training, workshops, and online courses for better management of climate risks.
FUNDING:
The project is co-financed by the Interreg Danube Region Programme 2021–2027 with support from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
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