Nature Meets Innovation for Climate Resilience

A Shift Toward Participatory Governance!

Welcome to Med-IREN’s newsletter!

In this edition, we move from theory to action! As climate change reshapes our landscapes, Med-IREN partners are deploying Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) and testing innovative collaboration models to protect our critical infrastructures and communities.

Updates per region: PACA ans Ischia.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur Region (France, PACA): Preparing for 2045

Provence Alpes Côte d’Azur (PACA), located in the southeastern part of France, is preparing for its LAB 4, which will take place in May and will consist of visiting various wildfire risk mitigation solutions built in the company of experts. 

Valabre is also working on creating a 3D model with various territorial modules that can be modified for an awareness workshop for evaluating land use planning interventions with stakeholders and the various audiences who come to Valabre for training (firefighters, civil protection, park rangers, etc.). 

Lab 5 is also internally planned for 2027. The objective of this lab is to create a crisis exercise, based on LAB 2 and LAB 3 results, playing the climate change effect in 2045 and seeing the impact of wildfire propagation on NBS that are implemented within the area of studies. 

Ischia Region (Italy): Parracine as a solution!

The Ischia pilot, located in the Municipality of Casamicciola Terme, addresses climate-related risks in a complex post-landslide reconstruction context. The area is highly vulnerable to slope instability due to its volcanic terrain, combined with intense rainfall events that increase landslide and flood risks.

Within MED-IREN, the pilot focuses on the implementation of nature-based solutions (NBS) for slope stabilisation, integrating traditional local practices with innovative monitoring technologies.

In particular, the intervention combines parracine (traditional dry-stone retaining walls) with a sensorised coconut fibre bio-net, enabling both slope protection and monitoring of soil movements. 

The retaining function is primarily ensured by the traditional structure, while the bio-net is used to support monitoring activities. Activities carried out so far include the identification of the pilot site, the definition of the most suitable NBS solution, the selection of monitoring parameters, and the preparation of procurement procedures, including engagement with potential suppliers. In parallel, the pilot is exploring the potential application of a bio-based self-healing concrete material, although its implementation is currently constrained by local landscape regulations and construction practices.

Stakeholder engagement is shaped by the emergency governance framework, where decision-making is led by the Commissarial Structure and the Municipality. Within this context, MED-IREN activities supported knowledge exchange and awareness on NBS among local actors. In the coming months, activities will focus on sensor integration and testing, on-site installation of the monitoring system during construction works, and the implementation of targeted monitoring campaigns.

Further efforts will also be dedicated to identifying suitable conditions for testing an innovative bio-based material capable of enhancing the self-healing properties of concrete, developed in collaboration with the University of Liverpool LJMU, with the aim of increasing the long-term resilience and sustainability of grey infrastructure elements.

Municipality of Casamicciola Terme

Updates per regions: Tuscany and Egaleo.

Tuscany (Italy)

The Region of Tuscany continues to lead the way in sustainable coastal management through the MED-IREN project. Building on a two-decade legacy of nature-based solutions (NBS), the project focuses on maintaining and optimising the gravel and pebble beaches that have become a hallmark of the Marina di Pisa shoreline. By replacing traditional seawalls and detached breakwaters with gravel and pebble beaches, the project addresses both immediate safety concerns and long-term ecological restoration.

The original coastal structure in Marina di Pisa was characterised by seawalls and detached breakwaters; gravel and pebble beaches represented the soft solution as an alternative to the previous method. Gravel and pebble beaches can absorb the energy of the storm surges, decreasing the risks of flooding on the coastal road, which is a fundamental critical infrastructure of the area. Before this innovation, the road was being closed down every time an extreme event occurred. Not only does this solution allow for short-term adaptation, but in the long term, it has been proven that it will allow sand to come back to shore.

• 1st PPCP lab: 7 May 2025; on the risks and needs of the Marina di Pisa location.

• 2nd PPCP lab: 27 November 2025; on the polarity between usability and safety of the gravel beaches.

• 3rd PPCP lab: 2 March 2026; on the designation of priorities for 3 themes for cell 5: health, safety of the users, and awareness of the citizens' behaviours.

An agreement has been reached between the Tuscany project partners and the Municipality of Pisa concerning the allocation of additional financial resources (co-financing) of the project by the Municipality.

Next steps: NBS project design, Authorisation procedures.

The final PCPP lab will be held afterwards, as the project will conclude its implementation phase.

Egaleo (Greece)

The Municipality of Egaleo continues to actively advance the MED-IREN project through participatory planning and the implementation of nature-based solutions (NBS) in urban environments.

Following the successful completion of the 2nd PPCP Lab, the 3rd PPCP Lab was held on 17 February 2026 at the 4th General High School of Egaleo, with the participation of approximately 35 stakeholders, including students, educators, municipal staff, and local actors.

This Lab marked a key transition from co-design to the presentation of finalised solutions, taking into account technical feasibility and budget considerations. The proposed interventions, developed through the previous participatory processes, were presented and discussed with participants, reinforcing transparency and shared ownership. The workshop also featured the presentation of the “Green Smart School” initiative, funded by municipal resources, a complementary municipal action of 150,000 Euros to enhance the impact of MED-IREN interventions.

In addition, a student hackathon was organised, during which participants analysed real data from the municipality’s microclimate monitoring stations and presented their own ideas and climate adaptation solutions. A reflection and discussion session followed, allowing participants to provide feedback and contribute to shaping the next steps of the process.

Looking ahead, the Municipality of Egaleo is preparing the next phase of the PPCP process, ensuring continuity with the same group of participants and further consolidating the co-creation approach.

Marina di Pisa

Updates per regions: Larnaka and Sitia.

Larnaka (Cyprus): Mapping the heat.

The Municipality of Larnaca has made steady progress in addressing key climate challenges related to urban flooding and extreme heat. Activities have focused on understanding urban heat island (UHI) effects at the neighbourhood level and preparing the groundwork for targeted Nature-Based Solutions (NbS), including permeable materials, rain gardens, and riverbed restoration.

Collaboration with local stakeholders, particularly the Water Development Department (WDD), has been central, supporting efforts such as identifying flood-prone areas, planning the installation of a flow meter, and coordinating upgrades to the stormwater network. In parallel, the team has initiated the procurement process for monitoring equipment and is shaping a structured approach to guide future NbS implementation.

Over the coming months, activities will concentrate on installing monitoring systems and launching UHI measurements, while continuing to enhance coordination and build the necessary knowledge to support the future implementation of effective and locally adapted solutions.

Sitia (Greece): Simulating the storm.

The Municipality of Sitia, in collaboration with the NCSR "Demokritos", organised on Thursday, November 27, 2025, the 2^nd PPCP within the framework of the European MED-IREN program, with the aim of strengthening the resilience of Mediterranean regions against the climate crisis and extreme weather events.

The event served as a continuation of the March 2025 evening gathering, expanding the scope of public discourse and showcasing new scientific and technological data. Simulation using computational tools for the analysis of historical flood events was presented.

During the event, results from the simulation software developed by NCSRD within the MED-IREN framework were presented. The NCSRD research team analysed:

• The 2019 flood event,

• The impacts of the phenomenon on critical infrastructure, residential areas, and natural formations.

• The impact of implementing nature-based solutions, such as: creating dams with natural materials, planting endemic plants at the catchment

The simulation of historical episodes highlighted the vulnerabilities of the area but also the Municipality's needs in making future decisions, ensuring timely risk identification and improving response procedures.

Furthermore, the event also examined environmental and ecosystem measures to address flood risks, in accordance with the principles of the green transition and sustainable water resources management.

Among the solutions presented were:

• Interventions for natural retention and delay of surface runoff,

• Development of green infrastructure characterised by a strong environmental footprint, Reinforcement of natural barriers and wetland formations,

• Implementation of mild stream protection and management actions in accordance with European standards.

These strategies foster adaptation to the climate crisis and endorse a comprehensive resilience framework for the region. The event was attended by 30 representatives from critical services and institutional bodies, highlighting the importance of coordination and efficiency in risk management.

Among the participants were:

• Civil Protection,

• Fire Service,

• Hellenic Police.

• Emergency medical service,

• EDEAK,

• Hellenic Red Cross,

• Chamber of Commerce

• Tourism sector representatives

• Sitia media representatives

• Agricultural cooperatives.

Their presence significantly contributed to the discussion on operational planning, data exchange, and the enhancement of cooperation within the framework of MED-IREN actions. The representatives of the Municipality of Sitia and the services emphasised that the climate crisis necessitates the use of advanced forecasting tools, scientifically validated methods, and ongoing training of all involved stakeholders.

Simultaneously, the importance of enhancing institutional collaboration and engaging the local community in adaptation and prevention initiatives was duly emphasised.

Sitia 2^nd PPCP Lab

Updates per regions: Burgas and Helsinki.

Burgas (Bulgaria)

The Municipality of Burgas, located on the Black Sea coast of Southeastern Bulgaria, is actively addressing climate-related risks through the MED-IREN project, with a particular focus on wildfires, drought, and ecosystem restoration in urban and peri-urban areas.

In May 2025, Burgas Municipality organised its first PPCP Lab, bringing together over 40 representatives from public institutions, civil protection services, private sector actors, and civil society. The event marked a key step toward strengthening participatory governance and fostering collaboration between stakeholders in identifying climate risks and co-developing solutions.

During the Lab, stakeholders worked collaboratively to map vulnerable areas, particularly in neighbourhoods and villages exposed to wildfire and drought risks. Through participatory exercises, they identified priority threats to critical infrastructure and explored a range of nature-based solutions (NBS), including post-fire ecosystem restoration, replanting with fire-resistant vegetation, and the construction of firebreaks. The process also enabled participants to classify measures into prevention, control, and detection categories, and to outline an implementation timeline for the period 2025–2028.

The participatory process revealed a strong consensus among stakeholders on the urgency of addressing wildfire and drought risks, while also highlighting the importance of long-term cooperation, capacity building, and community engagement.

At the same time, challenges such as imbalanced stakeholder participation and delays in procurement processes were identified, emphasising the need for more inclusive and efficient implementation frameworks. In parallel, the Municipality has initiated the deployment of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for wildfire monitoring, enabling real-time data collection, thermal imaging, and improved support for emergency response operations.

Advanced high-tech equipment has been tested to enhance monitoring and analytical capacities.

Furthermore, a mobile firefighting system has been delivered, strengthening the operational and technological capacity of Burgas Municipality in wildfire risk management and improving coordination with the Regional Directorate for Fire Safety and Civil Protection.

Specialised training sessions on UAS operation have also been conducted for municipal staff and fire safety authorities, enhancing their ability to perform monitoring, mapping, and real-time response during wildfire events.

Looking ahead, Burgas will continue the PPCP process through additional Labs aimed at refining and validating nature-based solutions, strengthening stakeholder collaboration, and advancing the implementation phase. Future activities will also include training initiatives for vulnerable groups and further development of smart monitoring and early warning systems, supporting the city’s transition toward a more climate-resilient and adaptive urban environment.

Helsinki (Finland): Beating the Heat.

In Helsinki, Forum Virium Helsinki and VTT have organised three larger stakeholder workshops as part of the PPCP Lab methodology. These workshops highlighted the high interest in creating more understanding of heat as a risk and mitigating measures in the local context. During the past years, heat has already been documented to increase morbidity and mortality in the Helsinki area, and local stakeholders have shared concern about the increasing heat risk in the future.

Based on the workshops, there is generally a positive attitude towards nature-based solutions, but more case studies and data-based tools are required to assess and monitor the impact and effectiveness of different solutions, e.g. green roofs. In addition to stakeholder engagement, preliminary data analysis on relationships between vegetation and heat has been conducted by Forum Virium Helsinki to test the capabilities of existing data and identify knowledge gaps.

During the spring of 2026, Helsinki replicator partners continue engaging local stakeholders. The aim is to organise a set of interviews and focus group discussions with local building and facility managers to gather their perspectives on climate adaptation (especially regarding heatwaves) and NBS monitoring and implementation.

These engagement activities are also used for identifying and selecting suitable case studies and pilot sites to be used later for heat analyses and simulations. VTT is putting efforts into developing the regional heat simulation model. The next PPCP Lab is planned to be organised in June, once the Helsinki replicator has a better view on case studies and more insights to share with stakeholders.

Burgas Drones testing

Presentation: The PPCP® Lab approach – WP1 / Artelia 

Towards participatory governance of climate risks through public–private–civil society partnerships.

How can public–private–civil partnerships (PPCP®) improve the effectiveness of disaster risk management?

Young Researchers Interviews

Meet Eftychia Mengou, she's based in Athens, Greece, and is a Research Assistant at NCSRD (C-EREL). Eftychia is a specialist in Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) and climate resilience. She focuses on integrating biodiversity and ecosystem services into regional adaptation strategies in areas like hazards and resilience.

Her research plays a vital role in developing sustainable, science-backed frameworks for a more resilient future.

Leaflet of the project

Read more about the project's goals, objectives and solutions implemented in our leaflet.

Download the media kit.

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Deliverables

Looking to dive deeper into Med-IREN’s progress and insights? 

Explore our Resources section, where you’ll find summaries and introductions to eight key deliverables covering our latest research, methodologies, and strategies for advancing Nature-Based Solutions across the Mediterranean.

Each deliverable highlights a different aspect of Med-IREN’s mission, from sustainability strategies to digital tools supporting climate adaptation.

Discover them all below.

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor CINEA can be held responsible for them.