The future cities guide
2013
The effects of our changing climate will considerably affect the quality of life in our city regions. Repeated flash flood events, heat waves or storms – to name just a few – have a strong impact on our cities. Although it is important to do all efforts for mitigation, due to science it is not possible any more to fully avoid climate change. Therefore we, the Future Cities partners being water boards, municipalities, council and planning authori- ties, have decided to proactively adapt: to take care of our densely populated cities.
The key role of cities in the adaptation process is recognised by the EU Commission within the development of the EU Adaptation Strategy. As a major transnational project, exclusively dedicated to making city regions in North-West Europe fit to cope with the
predicted climate change impacts, we believe that the results of Future Cities provide a useful perspective for other city regions and countries.
The European funding has enabled us to implement concrete adaptation measures based upon the retro-fitting of existing infrastructures in England, the Netherlands, Belgium, France and Germany. But we could do even more: to help foster adaptation the partnership has developed innovative tools such as the Adaptation Compass. This guidance tool for developing climate-proof city regions helps planners and experts at cities and water boards to meet their needs to consider adaptation in planning process. Subject to exchanges with European and national organisations in charge of adaptation, the Adaptation Compass works in all European countries, complementing the range of existing tools.
"Enjoy adaptation" is one leitmotiv chosen by the partnership after five years of cooperation. With this positive way of thinking, politicians and decision-makers are invited to consider the need to face climate change as an opportunity to develop future urban areas which meet environmental demands.
For us, the joint work with eight, fully engaged partners from five countries was always a great pleasure. We invite you to discover the many results of the Future Cities Partnership and wish you an inspirational read.