Die SCNAT und ihr Netzwerk setzen sich für eine nachhaltige Gesellschaft und Wissenschaft ein. Sie unterstützen Politik, Verwaltung und Wirtschaft mit Fachwissen und pflegen den Dialog mit der Öffentlichkeit. Sie stärken den Austausch über die wissenschaftlichen Disziplinen hinweg und fördern den akademischen Nachwuchs.

Bild: Sebastian, stock.adobe.com

Financing urban adaptation to climate change

EEA Report No 2/2017

Despite budgetary challenges, cities and towns across Europe are taking action to put in place measures that will help them adapt to the impacts of climate change. This European Environment Agency (EEA) report highlights the opportunities open to municipalities to share best practices and how they can support projects like green roofs or expanding city parks to help alleviate the negative effects of climate change.

Financing urban adaptation to climate change

This EEA report takes a closer look at innovative funding options now being used, such as green bonds and crowdfunding, alongside traditional funding channels. The report includes case studies that analyse how 11 cities across Europe are developing, funding and implementing urban adaptation measures. The case studies outline various projects that will help cities better protect themselves from the damage caused by extreme weather events. These include building more green spaces and installing green roofs, which enhance water retention and provide cooling as well as thermal insulation.

The 11 case studies involve the following cities: Amsterdam, Bilbao, Bologna, Bratislava, Copenhagen, Ghent, Hamburg, Lisbon, Malmö, Paris, and Smolyan.

The publication is meant to serve as a resource for adaptation financing providers and project developers from international, national or regional public bodies and private institutions. The report also includes a helpful annex providing an overview of European-level financing options available to municipalities.

Key messages:

  • The costs needed to adapt cities to the effects of climate change vary but can run into millions of euros. The lack of funding has been cited by mayors, city managers and planners as one of the main reasons for the slow uptake of adaptation. Public funds for adaptation measures can be difficult to find in wake of other budgetary priorities.
  • Municipalities across Europe have found different ways to finance adaptation. These range from tapping into public funds to more innovative financing mechanisms, including crowdfunding and green bonds.
  • Cities are also organising themselves to share best practices and promote environmental cooperation through the Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy and other similar organisations.
  • The European Union has earmarked at least 20 percent of all its expenditures during the 2014-2020 budget period for climate change action – for mitigation and adaptation. Further national and regional financial streams are also available.

Kategorien

  • Anpassung an die Klimaänderung
Englisch