The project aims to develop and implement innovative solutions that will enable cities to adapt more quickly to climate change and to reduce the urban heat island effect. A key aspect is to strengthen the resilience of urban centers to fie, heavy rainfall, droughts, and flash floods. As a result of the project, model adaptation actions will be created, which can be applied both locally and regionally. This will allow for the effective implementation of proven methods in various locations, contributing to the widespread dissemination of good practices in both Małopolska and other regions of Poland. The project will also raise local residents' awareness of environmental changes and the need for adaptation.

The LIFE DREAM CITIES initiative is an important step towards sustainable development and climate change adaptation in Malopolska. With financial support from the European Union and active involvement from partners, the region has the opportunity to stand out as a leader in the field of using modern blue-green infrastructure.

PROJECT ACTIVITIES:

The LIFE DREAM CITIES project includes a variety of activities, such as:

• conducting a detailed inventory and analysis of urban areas vulnerable to the negative impacts of climate change,
• preparing and implementing nature-based solutions (NBS) such as green walls and roofs, rain gardens, pocket parks, etc.,
• organizing consultations and climate panels with the participation of local authorities, non-governmental organizations, residents and entrepreneurs to gain public support for adaptation actions,
• integrating climate change adaptation with spatial and urban planning,
• running information and educational campaigns aimed at raising residents awareness about climate change adaptation,
• developing strategic programs and documents,
• organizing 35 debates/climate panels (5 debates in each of the 7cities).

EXPECTED PROJECT RESULTS:

• regional Adaptation Strategy (RAS) - the first document of its kind in the country, covering adaptation actions at the regional level,
• development, implementation, and testing of 7 individual model solutions for the cities involved in the project,
• biodiversity Protection and Restoration Program,
• reduction of the urban heat island effect through the use of blue-green infrastructure, improved building wall insulation, rainwater collection, etc.,
• improvement of the state of nature, species, and biodiversity,
• exchange of good practices at the local, regional, national, and international levels,
• engagement of local authorities and residents in taking individual actions for climate change adaptation.

PROJECT PARTNERS: 

• Malopolska - Marshal's Office of the Małopolska Region – coordinator
• Participating cities: Bochnia, Gorlice, Nowy Targ, Olkusz, Oświęcim, Skawina, Zakopane
• Association of Municipalities Polish Network „Energie Cités”
• Investeko S.A.

DURATION: 1 January 2025 - 31 December 2029

FINANCING: LIFE+

The project has received funding from the European Union under the LIFE+ financial instrument for the environment and climate through grant agreement No. 101158113. The sole responsibility for the content of this section lies with its authors and does not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.