On the 20th of February, the Municipality of Fundão organized the "Beiras e Serra da Estrela Regional Workshop: Pathways to Climate Resilience," an event dedicated to the adaptation of Mediterranean regions to climate change. Held within the framework of the European projects DesirMED and FarClimate, the workshop brought together various regional, national, and international stakeholders, including experts, representatives of public and private entities, academics, and members of civil society. The event fostered knowledge-sharing and collaborative strategy development to enhance territorial resilience. Throughout the day, participants explored challenges and opportunities related to climate adaptation, with a special focus on the interdependence of social and ecological factors, the impacts of climate change, and the implementation of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS).

The agenda included an analysis of the region’s climate risks, collaborative discussions on the resilience of socio-ecological systems, and an interactive visioning exercise for 2030 and 2050. The workshop culminated in the definition of strategic pathways and solutions for the region.During the closing session, the Municipality of Fundão presented the planned actions within the project framework, structured around three main pillars: Fruit Farming, Forestry, and Livestock Farming. The instruments to be implemented in the municipality were also introduced, aiming to enhance the application of scientific strategies for climate adaptation. Particular emphasis was given to the implementation of Nature-Based Solutions that can later be replicated in other territories within CIMBSE, helping to mitigate climate change impacts and promote sustainability in Mediterranean regions.

The DesirMED and FarClimate projects, both funded by the Horizon Europe program, are developed by two distinct consortia comprising academic institutions, local authorities, research centers, municipalities, universities, private sector organizations, and civil society groups. DesirMED focuses on applying scientific strategies for climate adaptation, particularly through the implementation of Nature-Based Solutions to mitigate climate change impacts and foster sustainability in Mediterranean regions. FarClimate, on the other hand, promotes a fair and sustainable climate transition, with a special emphasis on rural areas, ensuring that local communities play an active role in defining adaptation strategies. Through initiatives like this, the Municipality of Fundão reaffirms its commitment to combating climate change by promoting concrete actions that empower Mediterranean territories to respond effectively to environmental challenges.

Watch interviews with the workshop participants in DesirMED YouTube channel