LIFE DREAM CITIES – Designing and Realization of Exemplary Adaptation among Medium-sized CITIES – “Malopolska ready for adaptation”

Introduction

The overall objective of the LIFE DREAM CITIES project is to support the implementation of adaptation actions by filling institutional gaps in medium-sized cities. This will lead to the mobilization of public and private funds for investment in climate change adaptation.

Main Objectives

The main objective of the LIFE DREAM CITIES project is to develop, test, implement, and demonstrate a model for climate change adaptation at local and regional levels. The aim of the proposed actions is to reduce local climate risks.

Pilot Demonstration

The pilot demonstration will explore the possibility of reducing:

1. Heat waves (eliminating the urban heat island effect)
2. Heavy rainfall (mitigating flash floods)
3. Droughts

Specific Actions

A set of specific actions will be developed in 7 medium-sized cities to ensure effective implementation of climate change policies, including:

• Integration of adaptation into strategic documents
• Inventory of key areas affected by climate change impacts
• Implementation of adaptation management systems at the city level
• Pilot projects
• Public education

Regional Adaptation Strategy

In addition, the Malopolska Region will develop a Regional Adaptation Strategy, the first document of its kind in Poland. The document will be based on detailed analysis (including climate risk assessment and management) and expertise, involving key stakeholders.

Next Steps

The next step will be to prepare and implement pilot projects, such as:

• Green walls and roofs
• Rain gardens
• Green-blue infrastructure

Monitoring and Evaluation

Monitoring, reporting, and evaluation will be essential to establish a robust baseline against which progress on adaptation can be measured.

Information and Education

Information and education will be key pillars of the project. Intensive educational activities will be carried out to raise the awareness of residents on climate change adaptation.

Knowledge Exchange

LIFE DREAM CITIES will serve as a platform for the development and exchange of best practices and knowledge in Malopolska and other cities and regions in Poland and the EU.