Cities adapt: local water strategies in a changing climate

13 September 2010 in Munich / Germany

Programme for download here

Local Governments’ Day

Climate change adaptation is mainly about water. Water is the primary medium through which climate change influences the Earth's ecosystems and therefore people’s livelihoods and well-being. Already, water-related climate change impacts are being experienced in the form of more severe and more frequent flooding as well as extended periods with no rainfall at all. Therefore adaptation to climate change in Europe is mainly about better water management. Adapting to increasing climate variability and change through better water management requires policy shifts. 

In this context, the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR), Climate Alliance and ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability organise a Local Governments’ Day on 13 September entitled “Cities adapt: local water strategies in a changing climate”. The aim of the event is to bring together European local and regional elected representatives to look into major challenges related to adapting water management to a changing climate, discuss relevant policy measures and exchange views on adequate solutions.

Based on the actual and expected impacts of climate change on water systems elected European representatives from Cities and Regions will present the key ingredients of a successful adaptation strategy. Regional approaches as well as the challenges and opportunities of the European Union’s adaptation strategy will also be addressed.