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The EU has been at the forefront of addressing climate change for decades, with a 37% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions since 1990 and a commitment to reach climate neutrality by 2050. However, even with these efforts, the impacts of global warming will continue to worsen for years to come. That’s why the EU is also focusing on building resilience to climate change and reducing the risks it poses.
One important initiative in this effort is the Mission on Adaptation to Climate Change, which has been working to help regions across Europe adapt to a changing climate. In its three years of existence, the Mission has made significant progress in building capacities at the local and regional levels, testing new ideas and policies, and putting adaptation and resilience at the forefront.
With over 300 regions involved, the Mission is helping to create pathways to a safer and more resilient future. As the EU prepares to launch a new European Climate Adaptation Plan, the Mission will continue to play a crucial role in promoting local and regional action for climate resilience. The key is to align policy with action and enable effective implementation of strategies across all EU countries, cities, regions, and local authorities.
Elina Bardram, Director for Adaptation & Resilience, Communication, and Civil Society Relations at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Climate Action, emphasizes the importance of working together efficiently to accelerate adaptation to climate change. The recent events in Valencia serve as a reminder of the challenges we must prepare for, and the Mission on Adaptation is a crucial tool in this effort.