Adriatic-Ionian Region Steps Up Climate Adaptation Efforts at Landmark Corfu Event
Urgency was the buzzword in Corfu as policymakers, experts, and international organizations gathered to supercharge climate adaptation across the Adriatic-Ionian region. The event Accelerating Climate Change Adaptation in the Adriatic-Ionian Region held on April 8–9, unfolded under the Greek Presidency of the EUSAIR and brought together a powerhouse lineup of participants. Organized by the Ministries of Environment and Energy, Finance, the Ionian Islands Region, and the LIFE-IP AdaptInGR project, the two-day summit showcased the growing political will to turn climate adaptation plans into concrete action facing rising seas, extreme heat, and natural disasters.
"Resilience is not a luxury anymore — it’s a necessity" still echoes from Corfu announcing the 10th EUSAIR Forum next week.
Building Stronger Systems: Infrastructure, Tourism, Communities
One of the top priorities is future-proofing critical infrastructure. Experts warned that aging transport networks, energy grids, and water systems across the region are increasingly vulnerable to storms, floods, and droughts. New strategies — including nature-based solutions, adaptive engineering, and better protection of cultural heritage sites — were front and center.
Meanwhile, the conference also zeroed in on sustainable tourism, vital to the region's economy but highly exposed to climate risks. Best practices from eco-tourism initiatives and climate-friendly destination management projects were shared, highlighting how tourism can thrive without sacrificing the environment or community well-being.
On the urban front, there was a strong push to integrate adaptation into city life. From climate-smart zoning to citizen-driven resilience programs, local governments showcased ways they are turning policy into practice. Emphasis was placed on making communities not just survive but thrive in an unpredictable climate.
The LIFE-IP AdaptInGR Project: Driving Adaptation Across Greece
Funded by the European Union’s LIFE Programme and Greece’s Green Fund, the project aims to accelerate the rollout of Greece’s national adaptation strategy and regional action plans. It focuses on developing accessible climate services for policymakers, helping mainstream adaptation into sectoral policies, and strengthening the capacity of local and regional authorities to plan effectively for climate resilience.
AdaptInGR also explores innovative adaptation solutions across critical sectors — including water management, coastal protection, flood and wildfire risk management, urban resilience, cultural heritage, and landscape conservation — creating a bank of good practices that can be scaled up nationwide.
The clear takeaway from the event is that adapting to climate change is not a future goal — it’s an immediate imperative. And in a region as interconnected as the Adriatic-Ionian, working together isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.
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