54 local authorities have already benefited from expert support, representing 71% of the project’s beneficiaries.

The key event marking the start of the project was the launch conference, which took place in September 2025 in Żyrardów. The meeting was attended by over 100 people representing local authorities, the academic community, the public administration and non-governmental organisations. Participants discussed water resource management, biodiversity conservation, funding opportunities for adaptation measures, and practical solutions to enhance cities’ resilience to climate change.

A series of regional meetings was organised throughout the year, during which local government representatives, guided by experts, discussed the challenges associated with adapting to climate change and proposed solutions.

The topics covered at the meetings included, amongst others:

• securing funds for adaptation investments,
• preparing and implementing Municipal Adaptation Plans,
• developing blue-green infrastructure,
• increasing rainwater retention,
• climate risk management,
• adapting historic urban areas to changing climatic conditions.

A meeting in Zamość dedicated to the protection of historic urban layouts attracted particular interest. The event brought together representatives of public administration, conservation services and experts, who jointly analysed ways of combining the protection of cultural heritage with measures to increase cities’ resilience to the effects of climate change.

 

One of the project's most important elements is the direct consultations held with local authorities. So far, experts have visited, amongst others, Ełk, Gołdap, Giżycko, Mrągowo, Ostrów Mazowiecki, Przemyśl, Sanok and Tarnobrzeg.

During the meetings, the following topics were discussed:

• preparing grant applications under Measure 2.2: Adaptation to climate change, and the competition requirements,
• developing Municipal Adaptation Plans,
• designing green and blue infrastructure projects and preparing project documentation,
• principles for public participation in the planning of adaptation measures.

Thanks to this individualised approach, it is possible to tailor the support to the specific characteristics of each town and the stage of progress of the work.

 

The project is not limited solely to advisory activities. Work is also underway on a study concerning adaptation to climate change in areas under conservation protection. The report will contain the key conclusions and recommendations developed during expert meetings, as well as practical guidance for local authorities planning adaptation measures in historic areas.

The first year of the project has shown just how great the demand is among local authorities for expert support in adapting to climate change. Dozens of consultations, meetings and regional events have created a space for exchanging experiences, developing skills and preparing high-quality projects that will help towns in Eastern Poland respond more effectively to climate challenges. The project will continue over the coming months, offering local authorities further technical, expert and organisational support.

• Total value of the project PLN 6,269,130.00
• Amount of EU funding: PLN 5,328,760.00

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A project implemented under the ‘European Funds for Eastern Poland 2021–2027’ programme.