CEMR’s Response to the EU Adaptation Strategy Review
The Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) strongly supports the development of a revised EU Strategy on Adaptation to Climate Change, calling for a clear EU Action Plan that empowers local and regional governments (LRGs) to lead on the ground.
Climate change is already a reality for Europe’s cities and regions, with impacts ranging from floods and heatwaves to droughts, wildfires and biodiversity loss. As the first responders to these challenges, LRGs are on the front line and play a vital role in ensuring climate-resilient communities.
In its official response to the 2020 EU consultation, CEMR stresses that:
- Adaptation is as urgent as mitigation. While reducing emissions remains essential, Europe must also adapt to unavoidable impacts already underway.
- Localised responses are essential. Climate impacts vary significantly across territories. An effective adaptation strategy must reflect local vulnerabilities, risks and capacities.
- Integration is key. Adaptation should be embedded into land use planning, infrastructure, housing, water and environmental management, combining it with mitigation whenever possible.
- Transformation requires support. LRGs need financial tools, enabling policies, capacity-building, data access and stronger multilevel governance to deliver meaningful change.
- Nature-based solutions are critical. Investments in green infrastructure, biodiversity and water retention areas help cities adapt sustainably and cost-effectively.
CEMR also urges the Commission to ensure that adaptation becomes a mainstream requirement in planning and investment decisions. Risk and climate vulnerability assessments should guide long-term urban development, infrastructure planning and emergency preparedness.
Moreover, LRGs are not only ready to act locally but also to support international efforts, particularly in cooperation with developing countries, contributing to the goals of the Paris Agreement.
As part of the European Green Deal, the new strategy should enable and accelerate local action, ensuring that no city or region is left behind in preparing for climate risks.
For more information, contact:
Policy Officer – Energy and Environment
