Holistic EnvironmenTAl and Social Adaptation Framework for Extreme heat

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B EURO Mediterranean (EURO MED)

Date of latest update: 2026-10-22

Description

Description (EN):

Cities often become much hotter during heatwaves because of concrete surfaces, lack of green spaces, and city design. Some communities are especially at risk, particularly in poorer neighborhoods where people may already face health and social challenges. To tackle this, HEATSAFE is taking action in Spain, Italy, Albania, Bulgaria, and Greece. The project is helping cities create clear plans to prepare for and respond to heatwaves. It supports local governments in making smart decisions using practical tools, while also involving local people to make sure solutions match the needs of each area. In each location, HEATSAFE is testing real-life improvements like cool areas for public use, better emergency responses, and education campaigns to raise awareness. The results will be shared widely so that other cities across the Mediterranean can use the same methods. By combining science, urban planning, public health, and community input, HEATSAFE aims to build safer, healthier, and more climate-ready cities for everyone.

Description (FR):

Les villes deviennent souvent beaucoup plus chaudes pendant les vagues de chaleur en raison des surfaces en béton, du manque d'espaces verts et de la conception urbaine. Certaines communautés sont particulièrement à risque, notamment dans les quartiers défavorisés où les habitants font déjà face à des défis sanitaires et sociaux. Pour y faire face, le projet HEATSAFE agit en Espagne, en Italie, en Albanie, en Bulgarie et en Grèce. Il aide les villes à élaborer des plans clairs pour se préparer aux vagues de chaleur et y répondre efficacement. Le projet soutient les autorités locales dans la prise de décisions éclairées grâce à des outils pratiques, tout en impliquant les habitants afin que les solutions soient adaptées aux besoins spécifiques de chaque territoire. Dans chaque zone d’intervention, HEATSAFE teste des actions concrètes telles que la création de zones fraîches accessibles au public, l’amélioration des réponses d’urgence et des campagnes de sensibilisation. Les résultats seront largement diffusés pour que d’autres villes de la Méditerranée puissent reproduire ces méthodes. En combinant science, urbanisme, santé publique et participation citoyenne, HEATSAFE vise à construire des villes plus sûres, plus saines et mieux préparées au changement climatique, pour tous.

Actual Achievements (EN):

During the first semester, the HEATSAFE project successfully established its governance, coordination mechanisms and technical foundations, ensuring a coherent start of activities and strong cooperation among partners. FMRM coordinated the pre-contracting phase with the Joint Secretariat, supported partners with administrative setup and JEMS access, and organised the main coordination meetings, including the online introductory session and the official Kick-Off Meeting in Murcia on 24–25 June 2025. These meetings aligned partners on roles, work plan adjustments, governance rules and collaborative tools. Bilateral coordination with the Municipality of Cartagena helped define the pilot scope and cooperation framework. Under WP1, significant progress was achieved in analysing existing heatwave management strategies and identifying gaps and needs across pilot areas. CMCC led the review of heatwave response plans in the Mediterranean context, assessed readiness using WHO criteria and developed vulnerability heat maps in collaboration with partners. This work resulted in Deliverable D1.1.1, which provides a comprehensive diagnosis of heatwave action planning and a solid knowledge base for future interventions. EuroVértice played a key methodological role by supporting partners, consolidating approaches and ensuring coherence across territories. EV led Activity 1.3 by developing governance activation guidelines, stakeholder mapping templates and participatory methodologies. Several partners completed stakeholder mapping and organised Activation Meetings involving public authorities, service providers, NGOs, research institutions and community representatives. EV also initiated the development of a decision-support tool under Activity 1.4 to help local authorities select heat mitigation measures, gathering partner feedback for improvement. Local partners actively contributed data, reviewed deliverables and launched local processes. For example, AAK completed data collection for its vulnerability map, held its first Activation Meeting with 12 stakeholders, and initiated studies for climate shelters, smart urban equipment and cooling solutions. ASWM also held its first Activation meeting. Arezzo and other partners focused on assessing local readiness and engaging stakeholders for future Local Action Plans. All partners participated in coordination activities, reviewed local strategies and disseminated project information locally. Communication actions were launched early, including HEATSAFE branding materials, website content, news publications and participation in programme-level events such as the Green Living Areas Community meeting and the Interreg Euro-MED communication meeting. Overall, despite initial administrative constraints, the first semester ensured a coordinated project launch, strong partner engagement and delivery of key methodological and analytical outputs supporting future implementation. During the reporting period, the HEATSAFE project progressed in several complementary areas, moving forward with technical analysis, local coordination, pilot preparation, communication and transfer-related activities. The work carried out by the partners helped establish a common basis for addressing extreme heat in the pilot territories, while allowing each local context to adapt the project approach to its own specificities. A major achievement was the completion of the first technical outputs under WP1. With the support of all partners, the project finalised the diagnosis of heatwave action planning in the Mediterranean, integrating information on national, regional and local policies and practices. This provided a shared evidence base for understanding current gaps and opportunities. In parallel, heat vulnerability maps were developed for the pilot territories. These maps, based on data collection, modelling and local validation, helped identify areas and population groups most exposed to heat risk. The next step is to continue working with local authorities so that the maps can support decision-making, climate shelter planning, urban planning and the design of targeted measures. Another important milestone was the activation and continued operation of local governance structures. Partners identified relevant stakeholders, mapped responsibilities and resources, and organised activation and follow-up meetings in the pilot areas. These meetings brought together municipalities, regional authorities, technical experts, civil society organisations and other local actors to discuss heat risks, vulnerable groups, available resources and possible solutions. This work strengthened coordination mechanisms and created a more participatory basis for local heat action planning. The project also progressed in the design of practical measures. A common decision-support tool was developed and validated to help local authorities select suitable measures against extreme heat, taking into account factors such as feasibility, impact, cost-effectiveness and local priorities. At the same time, partners began developing Local Action Plans, including climate shelters, immediate response measures, recovery actions and awareness-raising activities. These plans are being shaped through a common framework, while taking into account the needs, data and institutional context of each territory. Pilot activities also moved forward. Partners prepared or advanced interventions such as climate shelter networks, improvements in public spaces and buildings, equipment for emergency responses, and measures to support vulnerable groups. In AMB, progress was made on a climate shelter intervention for vulnerable people, including technical design, energy simulations, coordination with stakeholders and preparation for future tendering. In Cartagena, partners worked on the selection and design of the pilot intervention and on connecting the project with existing health, education and heat alert systems. In the different pilot areas, studies, procurement preparations and governance meetings supported the move towards implementation. In Arezzo, the local governance structure was activated through two strategic meetings, a public questionnaire on heatwave risk perception gathered around 400 responses, and external technical support services were deployed to help build the knowledge base for climate shelters, intervention protocols and the pilot mitigation project. Monitoring and evaluation activities were also prepared. The project developed common protocols, files and technical instructions for measuring local pilot results, including thermal comfort, behaviour during heatwaves and environmental parameters. This will help ensure that local actions are assessed in a comparable way across territories. In addition, the consortium continued monitoring its own carbon footprint, improving data collection and reporting despite practical difficulties. Communication and awareness-raising were reinforced through a common set of guidelines to help partners design local campaigns in a simple and consistent way. Partners published news, shared results through websites and social media, contributed to project videos and communication reports, and increased the visibility of HEATSAFE among local and European audiences. The added value of cooperation was reflected in the combination of different types of expertise and responsibilities. Scientific partners contributed modelling, vulnerability assessment and monitoring methods; local and metropolitan authorities provided territorial data, institutional links and pilot sites; and coordination partners supported the development of common tools, governance methods and communication materials. This cooperation helped partners align their work, compare approaches across territories and prepare outputs that can be used in the next phases of the project.

Project outputs: Methodology for the creation of governance structures to fight heatwaves in an effective way(EN)
Methodology for the creation of governance structures to fight heatwaves in an effective way(FR)
Standarized and transferable methodology for the development of vulnerability heat maps(EN)
Standarized and transferable methodology for the development of vulnerability heat maps(FR)
Report on the implementation of testing activities in 6 MED areas to mitigate heatwaves effects(EN)
Report on the implementation of testing activities in 6 MED areas to mitigate heatwaves effects(FR)
Strategy for improved local heatwaves planning and management in the Mediterranean area(EN)
Strategy for improved local heatwaves planning and management in the Mediterranean area(FR)
Interaction and increase of capacity of relevant organizations for mitigating heat waves effects(EN)
Interaction and increase of capacity of relevant organizations for mitigating heatwaves effects(FR)
Open-source tool for the creation of heat vulnerability maps at local level(FR)
Open-source tool for the creation of heat vulnerability maps at local level(EN) Website: https://heatsafe.interreg-euro-med.eu/

Thematic information

Health and social services Education and training Community integration and common identity

Priority: (VI-B_EM_2) Greener MED

Priority specific objective: RSO2.4. Promoting climate change adaptation and disaster risk prevention and resilience, taking into account eco-system based approaches

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO2 A greener, low-carbon transitioning towards a net zero carbon economy and resilient Europe by promoting clean and fair energy transition, green and blue investment, the circular economy, climate change mitigation and adaptation, risk prevention and management, and sustainable urban mobility

Type of intervention: 060 Adaptation to climate change measures and prevention and management of climate related risks: others, e.g. storms and drought (including awareness raising, civil protection and disaster management systems, infrastructures and ecosystem based approaches)

Partners (9)

Lead Partner: Federacion de Municipios de la Region de Murcia

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 906546772

Partner’s ID if not PIC: V30150999 | ES2V0000070

Address: Plaza Mayor, 30005 Murcia, Spain

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Local public authority

Website: https://federacionmunicipiosmurcia.es/

Total budget: EUR 375 692.30

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 300 553.84

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 75 138.46

Contractors:

Name: EUDITA CUSPIDE AUDITORES, S.L.
VAT registration or tax identification number: B02120889

Fondazione Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici

Name: Fondazione Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici

Department: Economic alysis of Climate Impacts and Policy ECIP

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 999419422

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 3873750750 | IT120000041

Address: Via Marco Biagi, 73100 Lecce, Italy

Department address: Via Marco Biagi, 73100 Lecce, Italy

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.cmcc.it

Total budget: EUR 258 836.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 207 068.80

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 51 767.20

Εθνικό Καποδιστριακό Πανεπιστήμιο Αθηνών

Name: Εθνικό Καποδιστριακό Πανεπιστήμιο Αθηνών

Department: Physics Department, Section of Environmental Physics and Meteorology, Group of Building Environmental Studies

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 999643007

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 90145420 | EL120000051

Address: Christou Lada, 10561 Athens, Greece

Department address: University Campus, 15784 Athens, Greece

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Local public authority

Website: https://en.uoa.gr/

Total budget: EUR 207 567.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 166 053.60

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 41 513.40

Comune di Arezzo

Name: Comune di Arezzo

Department: Environment, Climate and Civil Protection

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 998565822

Partner’s ID if not PIC: IT00176820512 | IT120000074

Address: Piazza Amintore Fanfani, 52100 Arezzo, Italy

Department address: University Campus, 52100 Arezzo, Italy

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Local public authority

Website: https://www.comune.arezzo.it/

Total budget: EUR 285 515.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 228 412.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 57 103.00

Contractors:

Name: Ambiente Italia Srl
VAT registration or tax identification number: 14325870963
Name: Simurg Consulenze e Servizi
VAT registration or tax identification number: 01387870494

Keshilli i Qarkut Durres

Name: Keshilli i Qarkut Durres

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 929134095

Partner’s ID if not PIC: K51704519G | AL120000009

Address: Sheshi Liria, 2000 Durres, Albania

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Regional public authority

Website: https://qarkudurres.gov.al/

Total budget: EUR 256 060.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 204 848.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 51 212.00

Сдружение на Югозападните общини

Name: Сдружение на Югозападните общини

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 948318367

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 101536112 | BG120000015

Address: 23 Todor Aleksandrov Street, 2700 BLAGOEVGRAD, Bulgaria

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: http://www.aswm.net

Total budget: EUR 249 659.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 199 727.20

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 49 931.80

Contractors:

Name: Miroslav Ivanov
VAT registration or tax identification number: N/A
Name: Evelina Bozhilova
VAT registration or tax identification number: N/A
Name: Rayna Pashova
VAT registration or tax identification number: N/A
Name: VAMO OOD
VAT registration or tax identification number: BG101670093

Δήμος Αγίων Αναργύρων-Καματερού

Name: Δήμος Αγίων Αναργύρων-Καματερού

Department: Directorate of Technical Services Department of Studies

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 918519288

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 998396742 | EL120000052

Address: Dimokratias Ave, 13561 Agii Anargiri, Greece

Department address: Dimokratias Ave, 13561 61, Greece

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Local public authority

Website: http://www.agan.gov.gr

Total budget: EUR 276 153.30

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 220 922.64

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 55 230.66

Àrea Metropolitana de Barcelona

Name: Àrea Metropolitana de Barcelona

Department: Intertiol Relations and Digital Metropolis Department, Public Space Department

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 937664954

Partner’s ID if not PIC: P0800258F | ES308000003

Address: c/ 62, Zona Franca, 08040 Barcelona, Spain

Department address: c/ 62, Zona Franca, 08040 Barcelona, Spain

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Local public authority

Website (not verified): https://www.amb.cat/s/home.html

Total budget: EUR 252 244.80

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 201 795.84

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 50 448.96

EUROVERTICE S.L.

Name: EUROVERTICE S.L.

Department: Environment department

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 918382033

Partner’s ID if not PIC: B73419269 | ES5180000426

Address: PARQUE CIENTIFICO DE MURCIA CAMPUS UNIVERSTARIO, 30100 Murcia, Spain

Department address: PARQUE CIENTIFICO DE MURCIA CAMPUS UNIVERSTARIO, 30100 Murcia, Spain

Legal status: private

Organisation type: SME

Total budget: EUR 252 064.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 201 651.20

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 50 412.80

Contractors:

Name: CET AUDITORES, S.L.
VAT registration or tax identification number: B83878884

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

FONDAZIONE CENTRO EURO-MEDITERRANEO SUI CAMBIAMENTI CLIMATICI

Holistic EnvironmenTAl and Social Adaptation Framework for Extreme heat

Partners and Projects info

National Kapodistrian University of Athens - Department of Physics

Holistic EnvironmenTAl and Social Adaptation Framework for Extreme heat

Partners and Projects info

Municipality of Arezzo

Holistic EnvironmenTAl and Social Adaptation Framework for Extreme heat

Partners and Projects info

Regional Council Durres

Holistic EnvironmenTAl and Social Adaptation Framework for Extreme heat

Partners and Projects info

Association of South-Western Municipalities

Holistic EnvironmenTAl and Social Adaptation Framework for Extreme heat

Partners and Projects info

Municipality of Agii Anargiri - Kamatero

Holistic EnvironmenTAl and Social Adaptation Framework for Extreme heat

Partners and Projects info

Barcelona Metropolitan Area

Holistic EnvironmenTAl and Social Adaptation Framework for Extreme heat

Partners and Projects info

EuroVértice Consultants - Environment department

Holistic EnvironmenTAl and Social Adaptation Framework for Extreme heat

Partners and Projects info

Federation of Municipalities of the Region of Murcia

Holistic EnvironmenTAl and Social Adaptation Framework for Extreme heat

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): Holistic EnvironmenTAl and Social Adaptation Framework for Extreme heat

Project name (FR): Holistic EnvironmenTAl and Social Adaptation Framework for Extreme heat

Project acronym: HEATSAFE

Project ID: Euro-MED0401264

Project start date: 2025-04-01

Project end date: 2027-12-31

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

LIFE CityAdap3 (2020-2024). It aims to improve the adaptation to climate change in the urban environment, through the implementation of local adaptation plans, in the framework of the Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy, making use of financing schemes based on a public-private partnership involving local companies.
The main actions implemented have been the signature of collaboration agreements between companies and local councils, the implementation of pilot urban adaptation projects co-financed by companies (in line with the adaptation actions included in the SECAP of each one of the 4municipalities, the incorporation of climate change adaptation into CSR strategies and plans of local companies and industries; and the participation of co-financing companies in stakeholder groups to monitor the SECAPs. LP01 leaded this project and PP02 participated as partner.
(FR), LIFE CityAdap3 (2020-2024). It aims to improve the adaptation to climate change in the urban environment, through the implementation of local adaptation plans, in the framework of the Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy, making use of financing schemes based on a public-private partnership involving local companies.
The main actions implemented have been the signature of collaboration agreements between companies and local councils, the implementation of pilot urban adaptation projects co-financed by companies (in line with the adaptation actions included in the SECAP of each one of the 4municipalities, the incorporation of climate change adaptation into CSR strategies and plans of local companies and industries; and the participation of co-financing companies in stakeholder groups to monitor the SECAPs. LP01 leaded this project and PP02 participated as partner.
(EN) | Even if LIFE CITYAdaP3 is not a project just focused on heatwaves, but in adaptation as a whole, some of the solutions are related to the mitigation of high temperatures impact (e.g. installation of wooden shelters in Alcantarilla and Lorquí, testing new forestry models to mitigate heat island effect in Reggio Emilia, planting of autochthonous species in Molina de Segura…).
The results these actions were monitored, so they will provide learnings of success and failures that will be taken up by this project.
In addition, LIFE CITYAdaP3 developed a multicriteria assessment tool to select pilot adaptation actions in collaboration with local entities and stakeholders. The use of this (or similar tools) will be promoted among the partners in order to have a participatory method to define the actions to include in the Local Action Plan. (EN), Even if LIFE CITYAdaP3 is not a project just focused on heatwaves, but in adaptation as a whole, some of the solutions are related to the mitigation of high temperatures impact (e.g. installation of wooden shelters in Alcantarilla and Lorquí, testing new forestry models to mitigate heat island effect in Reggio Emilia, planting of autochthonous species in Molina de Segura…).
The results these actions were monitored, so they will provide learnings of success and failures that will be taken up by this project.
In addition, LIFE CITYAdaP3 developed a multicriteria assessment tool to select pilot adaptation actions in collaboration with local entities and stakeholders. The use of this (or similar tools) will be promoted among the partners in order to have a participatory method to define the actions to include in the Local Action Plan. (FR), LIFE OwnYourSECAP (2022-2025). It aims to offer a systematic approach to the development and implementation of sustainable energy and climate action plans in municipalities using: 1) energy management systems according to ISO 50001; 2) climate adaptation of the municipalities according to the ISO 14092; 3) innovative engagement approaches. The project is allowing municipalities to strengthen structures and engage representatives of different departments and stakeholders, secure greater political commitment and resources, ensure sectoral integration and set more ambitious targets towards carbon neutrality and resilience. In total, OwnYourSECAP will engage, train and support more than 110 municipalities in 11 member states and more than 1500 public employees. In Spain PP02 works with the municipalities of Lorquí, Cieza, Jumilla, Alhama de Murcia, Cartagena, Ceutí, Águilas, Lorca, Novelda and Huércal-Overa. (EN), LIFE OwnYourSECAP (2022-2025). It aims to offer a systematic approach to the development and implementation of sustainable energy and climate action plans in municipalities using: 1) energy management systems according to ISO 50001; 2) climate adaptation of the municipalities according to the ISO 14092; 3) innovative engagement approaches. The project is allowing municipalities to strengthen structures and engage representatives of different departments and stakeholders, secure greater political commitment and resources, ensure sectoral integration and set more ambitious targets towards carbon neutrality and resilience. In total, OwnYourSECAP will engage, train and support more than 110 municipalities in 11 member states and more than 1500 public employees. In Spain PP02 works with the municipalities of Lorquí, Cieza, Jumilla, Alhama de Murcia, Cartagena, Ceutí, Águilas, Lorca, Novelda and Huércal-Overa. (FR) | PP02 will take the key tools, methodologies and experiences developed and tested in LIFE OwnYourSECAP and upscale them in HEATSAFE. For instance, the learnings gained by engaging representatives of different departments and stakeholders and by the use of innovative engagement approaches will be highly useful for working with the coordination and governance structures that will be created in the municipalities. (FR), PP02 will take the key tools, methodologies and experiences developed and tested in LIFE OwnYourSECAP and upscale them in HEATSAFE. For instance, the learnings gained by engaging representatives of different departments and stakeholders and by the use of innovative engagement approaches will be highly useful for working with the coordination and governance structures that will be created in the municipalities. (EN), INTERREG-IPA Bulgaria – Republic of North Macedonia “Cross-Border Cooperation in Forest Fire Fighting”. The project aims to boost community resilience in the cross-border region of Southwest Bulgaria and Southeast Macedonia against natural hazards, particularly forest fires. It seeks: establishment of a permanent cross-border partner network; heightened public awareness about volunteering and forest fire prevention; strengthening of fire department capacity and infrastructure; and enhancement of skills for emergency response. (FR), INTERREG-IPA Bulgaria – Republic of North Macedonia “Cross-Border Cooperation in Forest Fire Fighting”. The project aims to boost community resilience in the cross-border region of Southwest Bulgaria and Southeast Macedonia against natural hazards, particularly forest fires. It seeks: establishment of a permanent cross-border partner network; heightened public awareness about volunteering and forest fire prevention; strengthening of fire department capacity and infrastructure; and enhancement of skills for emergency response. (EN) | The project targets one of the most dangerous consequences of heatwaves, which are forest fires. The One of the outputs of the project is the enhancement of the qualifications and skills of representatives from fire departments and voluntary formations, ensuring they are well-prepared to handle emergencies effectively. PP5, partner of this project, will ensure all the tools and learnings from this project are integrated in HEATSAFE and that the best practices derived from it appear in the “Catalogue of measures” produced in A1.4 (D1.4.1). (EN), The project targets one of the most dangerous consequences of heatwaves, which are forest fires. The One of the outputs of the project is the enhancement of the qualifications and skills of representatives from fire departments and voluntary formations, ensuring they are well-prepared to handle emergencies effectively. PP5, partner of this project, will ensure all the tools and learnings from this project are integrated in HEATSAFE and that the best practices derived from it appear in the “Catalogue of measures” produced in A1.4 (D1.4.1). (FR), European Social Fund Operational programme: Good Governance “Together with the citizens and the business, we are building the future of the Municipality”. The project aims to enhance civil society-local government interaction by developing effective governance mechanisms for citizen benefit. Key activities include analysing obstacles to civic participation, organizing information campaigns, and conducting capacity-building trainings. Target groups include municipal employees, NGOs, business representatives, and civil society. By PP05 partnering with Slivnitsa municipality, the project seeks to increase citizen, business, and administrative engagement in policy implementation and monitoring. Results include improved interaction between administration and citizens, increased civic engagement in governance processes, and enhanced socio-economic environment through open and responsible governance practices. (EN), European Social Fund Operational programme: Good Governance “Together with the citizens and the business, we are building the future of the Municipality”. The project aims to enhance civil society-local government interaction by developing effective governance mechanisms for citizen benefit. Key activities include analysing obstacles to civic participation, organizing information campaigns, and conducting capacity-building trainings. Target groups include municipal employees, NGOs, business representatives, and civil society. By PP05 partnering with Slivnitsa municipality, the project seeks to increase citizen, business, and administrative engagement in policy implementation and monitoring. Results include improved interaction between administration and citizens, increased civic engagement in governance processes, and enhanced socio-economic environment through open and responsible governance practices. (FR) | The project focus on strengthening governance mechanisms, which HEATSAFE. The structures created in the “Good governance project” can be used by PP5 during this project to enable more effective implementation of heatwaves mitigation measures, fostering community engagement in climate resilience efforts, building capacity for climate action, and promoting socio-economic benefits associated with climate-friendly policies and practices. (EN), The project focus on strengthening governance mechanisms, which HEATSAFE. The structures created in the “Good governance project” can be used by PP5 during this project to enable more effective implementation of heatwaves mitigation measures, fostering community engagement in climate resilience efforts, building capacity for climate action, and promoting socio-economic benefits associated with climate-friendly policies and practices. (FR), Interreg ADRION TRANSCPEARLYWARNING – “Establishment of TRANSnational Civil Protection EARLY WARNING System to improve the resilience of Adrion territories to natural and man-made risks.” The project addressed the challenges of enhancing level of uniformity, homogeneity and similarity of existing CP Early Warning, efficiently integrating them to predict risks, present alert levels and improve exchange of information with EU CP Mechanism. The overall objective was to increase cooperation level among National CP institutions in addressing natural and man-made risks right from the early warning stage and better ensuring EU CP Mechanism intervention. PP6 was a partner of this project. (FR), Interreg ADRION TRANSCPEARLYWARNING – “Establishment of TRANSnational Civil Protection EARLY WARNING System to improve the resilience of Adrion territories to natural and man-made risks.” The project addressed the challenges of enhancing level of uniformity, homogeneity and similarity of existing CP Early Warning, efficiently integrating them to predict risks, present alert levels and improve exchange of information with EU CP Mechanism. The overall objective was to increase cooperation level among National CP institutions in addressing natural and man-made risks right from the early warning stage and better ensuring EU CP Mechanism intervention. PP6 was a partner of this project. (EN) | The approach followed in this project, and uptake by PP6, was also based on a participatory process (networking structure as stable cooperation relationship between project partners, civil protection organizations and main stakeholders with long term perspective); the development of an Innovative Transnational network system; the establishment of a strategy as an integrated framework defined by all partners; and the drafting of an Action Plan providing a common vision enhancing level of uniformity and similarity to make available to National/Regional Authorities a transnational uniform emergency basis. Therefore, the similarities with the project are clear. However, HEATSAFE will focus only in warning systems regarding heatwaves and will develop specific solutions for the Mediterranean, not to the Adrion territories. The results of TRANSCPEARLYWARNING will in any case by considered and upscaled. (EN), The approach followed in this project, and uptake by PP6, was also based on a participatory process (networking structure as stable cooperation relationship between project partners, civil protection organizations and main stakeholders with long term perspective); the development of an Innovative Transnational network system; the establishment of a strategy as an integrated framework defined by all partners; and the drafting of an Action Plan providing a common vision enhancing level of uniformity and similarity to make available to National/Regional Authorities a transnational uniform emergency basis. Therefore, the similarities with the project are clear. However, HEATSAFE will focus only in warning systems regarding heatwaves and will develop specific solutions for the Mediterranean, not to the Adrion territories. The results of TRANSCPEARLYWARNING will in any case by considered and upscaled. (FR), EUI Innovative Actions Time2Adapt. It proposes an integrated, time-based approach that makes the most of the versatility and modularity of existing urban spaces and installations. The solution involves limiting land artificialisation and improving access to comfortable places for citizens, especially the most fragile, during hot summers. Actions range from adjusting opening times, or developing new uses, to temporarily occupying public space with refreshing artistic installations. The project also explores innovative, integrated approaches to managing these places. (FR), EUI Innovative Actions Time2Adapt. It proposes an integrated, time-based approach that makes the most of the versatility and modularity of existing urban spaces and installations. The solution involves limiting land artificialisation and improving access to comfortable places for citizens, especially the most fragile, during hot summers. Actions range from adjusting opening times, or developing new uses, to temporarily occupying public space with refreshing artistic installations. The project also explores innovative, integrated approaches to managing these places. (EN) | PP5 is a transfer partner of Time2Adapt, and so, it will learn about innovative methods for transformation of public spaces and public facilities to create shelter spaces for heatwaves. The MUA (Main Urban Authority leading the project) is Lylle Metropole, and the other transfer partners are Dresden and Middelburg. This will allow PP5 to learn from the needs, challenges and solutions of other regions regarding heatwaves and apply this knowledge to HEATSAFE. (EN), PP5 is a transfer partner of Time2Adapt, and so, it will learn about innovative methods for transformation of public spaces and public facilities to create shelter spaces for heatwaves. The MUA (Main Urban Authority leading the project) is Lylle Metropole, and the other transfer partners are Dresden and Middelburg. This will allow PP5 to learn from the needs, challenges and solutions of other regions regarding heatwaves and apply this knowledge to HEATSAFE. (FR), LIFE ADAPTATE (2017-2021). The project aimed to create reinforced mechanisms to develop effective measures to climate change adaptation. Also, it includes the development of Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plans in 6 municipalities from 3 EU countries (Spain, Portugal and Latvia); the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of those SECAP; the development of demonstrative pilot actions related to climate change; the test and demonstration of cooperation schemes among municipalities and the effects of public involvement and participation; the transfer and replicating of project activities at local level; and, finally, the development of local inititatives and the adoption of specific measures to allow adaptation and mitigation to climate change. PP2 was a partner of the project. (FR), LIFE ADAPTATE (2017-2021). The project aimed to create reinforced mechanisms to develop effective measures to climate change adaptation. Also, it includes the development of Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plans in 6 municipalities from 3 EU countries (Spain, Portugal and Latvia); the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of those SECAP; the development of demonstrative pilot actions related to climate change; the test and demonstration of cooperation schemes among municipalities and the effects of public involvement and participation; the transfer and replicating of project activities at local level; and, finally, the development of local inititatives and the adoption of specific measures to allow adaptation and mitigation to climate change. PP2 was a partner of the project. (EN) | PP2 will upscale all the learnings, tools and methodologies gained during its participation in LIFE ADAPTATE, and ensure the best practices are considered during the catalogue of measures selection (A1.4), the action plans (A2.1) and the pilot actions design, implementation and monitoring. In particular, the experience gained during the development of the "Guide for the adaptation of local policies to the needs of climate change", the "Model Ordinance regulating the integration of climate change in the granting of building and activity licences" and the "Guide for the elaboration of SECAP" will be passed on to the partners, ensuring the capitalization of LIFE ADAPTATE results and the alignment of the local action plans (A2.1), with other local instruments and policies. (FR), PP2 will upscale all the learnings, tools and methodologies gained during its participation in LIFE ADAPTATE, and ensure the best practices are considered during the catalogue of measures selection (A1.4), the action plans (A2.1) and the pilot actions design, implementation and monitoring. In particular, the experience gained during the development of the "Guide for the adaptation of local policies to the needs of climate change", the "Model Ordinance regulating the integration of climate change in the granting of building and activity licences" and the "Guide for the elaboration of SECAP" will be passed on to the partners, ensuring the capitalization of LIFE ADAPTATE results and the alignment of the local action plans (A2.1), with other local instruments and policies. (EN), ACCREU – Assessing Climate Change Risk in Europe (CMCC) (2023-2026)
ACCREU is a project funded by HORIZON Europe RIA (Research and Innovation Action) investigating, in a fully integrated framework, climate change impacts, mitigation, adaptation and prospects for a sustainable social and economic development in the EU. ACCREU will identify challenges, highlight opportunities and deliver practical solutions to policy making and societal actors at the EU, EU Member State, region and community level to accelerate a just societal transformation towards climate resilience in the short, medium and long term. (FR), ACCREU – Assessing Climate Change Risk in Europe (CMCC) (2023-2026)
ACCREU is a project funded by HORIZON Europe RIA (Research and Innovation Action) investigating, in a fully integrated framework, climate change impacts, mitigation, adaptation and prospects for a sustainable social and economic development in the EU. ACCREU will identify challenges, highlight opportunities and deliver practical solutions to policy making and societal actors at the EU, EU Member State, region and community level to accelerate a just societal transformation towards climate resilience in the short, medium and long term. (EN) | PP9 is the coordinator of ACCREU. In this sense, many of its goals such as co-designed assessment of climate risks across sectors (relevant for WP1 of HEATSAFE), the Adaptation Decision procedures (for the creation of new governance structures), the decision-making methods (which will be relevant for the new tools to be developed) and the policy assessments (for policy recommendations) will be results which HEATSAFE will use during its project implementation. (FR), PP9 is the coordinator of ACCREU. In this sense, many of its goals such as co-designed assessment of climate risks across sectors (relevant for WP1 of HEATSAFE), the Adaptation Decision procedures (for the creation of new governance structures), the decision-making methods (which will be relevant for the new tools to be developed) and the policy assessments (for policy recommendations) will be results which HEATSAFE will use during its project implementation. (EN), BEATULO - Badalona Integrated Early Warning System for multi-hazard and risk management to ensure urban climate change adaptation (AMB). (2020-2022)
LIFE BAETULO is a pilot project where a novel technology, an Integrated (and multi-hazard) Early Warning System, is applied for the first time in a city, in this case in Badalona (Spain), with the objective of reducing the exposure and vulnerability of citizens and other urban assets to climate-related hazards by providing anticipated information and alarms that allows taking preventive actions (including operational actions) to minimize direct and indirect impacts and damages derived from climate change. (FR), BEATULO - Badalona Integrated Early Warning System for multi-hazard and risk management to ensure urban climate change adaptation (AMB). (2020-2022)
LIFE BAETULO is a pilot project where a novel technology, an Integrated (and multi-hazard) Early Warning System, is applied for the first time in a city, in this case in Badalona (Spain), with the objective of reducing the exposure and vulnerability of citizens and other urban assets to climate-related hazards by providing anticipated information and alarms that allows taking preventive actions (including operational actions) to minimize direct and indirect impacts and damages derived from climate change. (EN) | The results obtained from BEATULO will be highly relevant for the definition of the pilot activities, as tangible results were obtained especially for the immediate response activities. The participation of AMB in the project guarantees that these results will influence using the best practices and solutions developed in BEATULO. (EN), The results obtained from BEATULO will be highly relevant for the definition of the pilot activities, as tangible results were obtained especially for the immediate response activities. The participation of AMB in the project guarantees that these results will influence using the best practices and solutions developed in BEATULO. (FR), HEAT - Heatwaves Awareness Education Through Online Learning. (UoA). (2022-2024)
HEAT is an Erasmus+ European project born out of the recognition of the importance of education in addressing climate change challenges. In collaboration with partners from various European countries, this project focuses on heatwaves and their impact on our planet. Through innovative educational approaches and multilingual resources, we aim to create tangible change in environmental education and awareness among young minds.
(EN), HEAT is an Erasmus+ European project born out of the recognition of the importance of education in addressing climate change challenges. In collaboration with partners from various European countries, this project focuses on heatwaves and their impact on our planet. Through innovative educational approaches and multilingual resources, we aim to create tangible change in environmental education and awareness among young minds.
(FR) | HEAT results will be relevant for two main activities within the project:
- Awareness and dissemination campaigns, as some of their results and materials produced will be used within the activities.
- Capacity buildings: as the training activities will consider the materials and guidelines developed as key documents to this aim.
(EN), HEAT results will be relevant for two main activities within the project:
- Awareness and dissemination campaigns, as some of their results and materials produced will be used within the activities.
- Capacity buildings: as the training activities will consider the materials and guidelines developed as key documents to this aim. (FR)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 2 413 791.40

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 1 931 033.12

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 80.00%

Co-financing sources:

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Infrastructure investments:

I2.1 - Creation of Climate shelters in Cartagena - EUR 50 000.00 - country: España (ES), town: Cartagena, street: NA, NA, postal_code: NA, Región de Murcia (ES62), Murcia (ES620)
I2.2 - Climate shelter & urban climatic comfort - EUR 56 457.60 - country: Italia (IT), town: Arezzo, street: , , postal_code: , Toscana (ITI1), Arezzo (ITI18)
I2.3 - Testing flexible climate shelter prototypes in AMB - EUR 80 000.00 - country: España (ES), town: Barcelona, street: Carrer de la Riereta, 24, postal_code: 08001, Cataluña (ES51), Barcelona (ES511)
I2.4 - Climate shelters and flexible shadows in Durres - EUR 40 000.00 - country: Shqipëria (AL), town: Durres, street: Lagjja, Sheshi Liria, , 2, postal_code: 2000, Veri (AL01), Durrës (AL012)
I2.5 - Climate shelters and flexible shadows Blagoevgrad - EUR 50 000.00 - country: Bulgaria (BG), town: Blagoevgrad, street: Georgi Izmirliev - Makedoncheto Square, 1, postal_code: 2700, Yugozapaden (BG41), Blagoevgrad (BG413)
I2.6 - Bioclimatic regeneration of public spaces - EUR 144 400.00 - country: Elláda (EL), town: Municipality of Ag. Anargiroi/Kamatero, street: , , postal_code: , Attiki (EL30), Anatoliki Attiki (EL305)

Deliverables:

Diagnosis of heatwaves action planning in the Mediterranean area
Diagnosis of heatwaves action planning in the Mediterranean area
Catalogue of measures to be applied and prioritised in extreme heat conditions
Catalogue of measures to be applied and prioritised in extreme heat conditions
Local Action Plan against extreme heat in Cartagena:
Local Action Plan against extreme heat in Cartagena:
Local Action Plan against extreme heat in Barcelona Metropolitan Area
Local Action Plan against extreme heat in Barcelona Metropolitan Area
Local Action Plan against extreme heat in Agioi Anargyroi-Kamatero
Local Action Plan against extreme heat in Agioi Anargyroi-Kamatero
Local Action Plan against extreme heat in Blagoevgrad
Local Action Plan against extreme heat in Blagoevgrad
Local Action Plan against extreme heat in Durres
Local Action Plan against extreme heat in Durres
Local Action Plan against extreme heat in Arezzo
Local Action Plan against extreme heat in Arezzo
Report on climate shelters approach to reduce extremely extreme heat impact
Report on climate shelters approach to reduce extremely extreme heat impact
Standards and transformation strategies for upgrading facilities into climatic shelters
Standards and transformation strategies for upgrading facilities into climatic shelters
Report on immediate response approach at local level to reduce extreme heat impact
Report on immediate response approach at local level to reduce extreme heat impact
Report on awareness-raising and communication approach to reduce extreme heat impact
Report on awareness-raising and communication approach to reduce extreme heat impact
Report on model for the creation of climate governance structures
Report on model for the creation of climate governance structures
Learnings from the testing phase report
Learnings from the testing phase report
Strategy for improved local heatwaves planning and management in the Mediterranean area
Strategy for improved local heatwaves planning and management in the Mediterranean area
Heat vulnerability map open viewer tool
Heat vulnerability map open viewer tool
Report on policy recommendations for heatwaves response
Report on policy recommendations for heatwaves response

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EuropeanGreenDeal The EU Green Deal aims to overcome climate change and environmental degradation. The EU is setting key steps for managing climate risks to protect people, and manifests the concerns on last’s year record temperatures. It calls for action from all levels of government, to improve governance and tools for climate risk owners.
All these lines of actions are aligned with HEATSAFE objectives: to provide a methodology and clear guidelines so governments can improve the management of risks associated with temperature increase and heatwaves. HEATSAFE will also contribute by the development of new governance multi-level structures so every actor is aligned in the process, so an effective Green Deal implementation is achieved. Moreover, green infrastructure solutions and energy efficiency measures, through buildings renovation to create climate shelters will be promoted and tested in 6 pilots with the ambition of serving as guide for other territories across the Mediterranean area.
TerritorialAgenda2030 The Territorial Agenda promotes territorial cohesion in Europe, motivated by the rise in heatwaves. It prioritizes transitioning to resilient cities and regions, supporting nature-based solutions and new crisis management tools for increased safety. Additionally, it emphasizes respecting natural limits and enhancing resilience against climate change.
HEATSAFE will work on this direction: developing a methodology so local authorities can elaborate specific planning to act in the face of high temperatures, testing pilot actions to mitigate their effects, monitoring and validating the approach, and increasing institutional capacity to improve the prevention and management of these risks. Project results will be disseminated and transferred to key actors so the project can directly contribute to the achievement of the strategy objectives and the bottom-up approach related to the multi-level governance approach.
EUStrategyAdriaticIonianRegion The project aligns with the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region (EUSAIR), particularly under Pillar 3 – Environmental Quality. It supports Western Balkan integration by fostering regional cooperation and socioeconomic resilience through joint mitigation efforts to tackle climate change impacts. It also supports sustainable tourism by ensuring destinations remain safe and appealing despite climate challenges. This integrated approach enhances regional stability, economic growth, and environmental sustainability, supporting EUSAIR’s overall objectives. The presence of relevant partners from Athens (Uoa, AAK) and Lecce (CMCC), areas included in the strategy, ensure the contribution of project results in the development and implementation of the EUSAIR, especially in Pilar 3. The project results will be transferred to EUSAIR responsible bodies through target actions and a dedicated webinar will be developed for the Adriatic and Ionian Region.
Other The European Climate Law writes into law the goal set out in the European Green Deal for Europe’s economy and society to become climate-neutral by 2050. In its Article 5, it addresses adaptation to climate change, ensures continued progress in enhancing adaptive capacity by EU institutions and Member States, and makes it mandatory to implement national adaptation strategies and plans. The Local Action Plans developed during the project and the joint methodology produced so other municipalities can develop them, will contribute to reach the objectives of this law. In particular, HEATSAFE project will enhance the adaptative capacity of local authorities and produce guidelines for the deployment of plans and measures to adapt to heatwaves.
Other The European Commission adopted its new EU strategy on adaptation to climate change on 24 February 2021. The objective of this strategy focuses on moving towards a climate-neutral, climate-adapted and climate-resilient Europe by 2050 by promoting smarter, faster and, above all, more systemic adaptive capacity. It explicitly mentions heatwaves, defining them as Europe's deadliest natural disaster. It also mentions the urgency of accelerating the implementation of physical adaptive solutions, such as the creation of more green spaces, to reduce the impacts of heatwaves. The Strategy also projects the need for a deeper understanding of climate change-related health risks, including extreme heat-related deaths. Therefore, the contribution of HEATSAFE to the goals and purpose of this strategy is obvious, as it is completely aligned with its goals of adapting our territories to climate change effects. HEATSAFE will accelerate the implementation of solutions to reduce the impacts of heatwaves
Other The European Climate Pact is a movement of people united around a common cause, taking steps in their own worlds to build a more sustainable Europe. Individuals and organisations can take part of the Pact and contribute to climate action. HEATSAFE will engage local communities on taking climate action by framing projects events as group climate activities of the Pact and promote the practical guides of the initiative among the population. This will be a way to raise awareness of the EU Climate Pact initiative but also, the Pact website will mean a dissemination channel to communicate and disseminate the results of the project to other entities.
Other HEATSAFE aligns with the principles of the New European Bauhaus by promoting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient urban environments in response to rising heatwaves. The project enhances the quality of public spaces through bioclimatic interventions and nature-based solutions, contributing to a more climate-resilient built environment. It fosters inclusion by actively involving local communities and vulnerable groups in the co-design of climate shelters and adaptation strategies. While rooted in climate action, HEATSAFE also values the social and spatial quality of interventions, thus embracing the NEB vision of building spaces that are not only green and functional, but also accessible and enriching for all.

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 116 - Jointly developed solutions, Measurement unit:
RCO 083 - Strategies and action plans jointly developed, Measurement unit:
RCO 087 - Organisations cooperating across borders, Measurement unit:

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 104 - Solutions taken up or up-scaled by organisations, Measurement unit:
RCR 079 - Joint strategies and action plans taken up by organisations, Measurement unit:

Programme Result Indicator:

PSI1 - Organisations with increased institutional capacity due to their participation in cooperation activities across borders, Measurement unit: organisations

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSAIR

EUSAIR Priority (Policy) area / Horizontal action:

EUSAIR Degree of compliance:

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B EURO Mediterranean (EURO MED)

Latest month of project-partner-call data publication

2026-10

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

98 / 98 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

981 / 981 (100%)

Notes on the data

There are discrepancies in this programme's financial data in keep.eu. Namely, in one or more cases, the sum of the project partners' budgets exceeds the total budget of the respective project. Interact is working with the Programme to correct those figures.

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Holistic EnvironmenTAl and Social Adaptation Framework for Extreme heat

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Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

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