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Description
The city of Opava is one of the first cities to have its adaptation strategy on climate change (SCCH) elaborated, including an implementation plan. According to Bergen''s call, the proposed project aims to contribute the implementation of particular measures concerning with the processed SCCH, which includes measures for a safe future and sustainable functioning of the city in conditions of changing climates during the 21st century. It contains specific measures, selected according to specific conditions and potential problem or risky places in the city, thus allowing them to adapt appropriately to these problems and risks. The project brings innovative solutions and implementation of the results of scientific and research projects, including of good practice examples. Furthermore, the project will elaborate the whole implementation process of adaptation for cities of different sizes apply integrated approaches according to the National Action Plan for CCh. The project is directed supporting the objectives of cities, regional, national and European strategies for adaptation to CCh. In particular, the proposed activities address protection against drought and reduce the effect of an urban heat island, strengthen water retention and improve green infrastructure. The project will also bring an exchange of good practice with the processing, evaluation and implementation of SCCH between Opava and the learning cities and two research companies that process, design and implement specific measures in accordance with SCCH. The Regional and the municipal authorities, stakeholders, NGOs, the professional public and the citizens will benefit from the implementation of the project and will be available via the project website.
Summary of project results
In the project, we aimed to strengthen the resilience of Opava, Frýdek-Místek, and Prostějov against climate change impacts. We implemented innovative adaptation measures to mitigate drought, heat islands, and deteriorating air quality, including the introduction of green roofs, urban green spaces and tree planting.
Additionally, we focused on beautifying urban areas to enhance community well-being and engagement. The project''s success highlighted the power of collaboration: while Opava had a ready-made adaptation strategy, Frýdek-Místek and Prostějov were in the early stages of developing theirs. Through mutual sharing of experiences and knowledge, both cities gained valuable insights from Opava and each other.
Workshops and collaborative sessions facilitated this exchange, accelerating the development of effective strategies in Frýdek-Místek and Prostějov. The project has not only improved climate resilience but also fostered a network of cities committed to sustainable development, providing a model for others facing similar challenges.
Within the project we implemented a total of 10 adaptation measures, 8 projects in Opava and one project each in Frýdek-Místek and Prostějov. We built green roofs and other elements of green infrastructure, which led to a significant mitigation of the impact of heat islands and at the same time raised the aesthetic value of the environment. We have created new green spaces, including pools, to support biodiversity conservation in these locations and improve stormwater management. In addition, greenery in cities has contributed to cleaner air by absorbing pollutants. Adaptation measures for our cities have been of great benefit, we have managed to strengthen the resilience of our territory to climate change, improve the environment and create a more beautiful and healthier environment for our citizens.
In Opava, we carried out a comprehensive environmental study GreenPass in the area of Dukla Barracks and built green roofs on the Sports Hall, Hláska and Senior Centre. We also used greenery to address the warm island in the city in the form of mobile greenery, landscaping in the Ořechovka orchard, greenery at the Golden Cross and insulating greenery on Svobody Square.
In Frýdek-Místek, we revitalised the ponds in the Frýdek Forest, thus promoting biodiversity and beautifying the environment for the inhabitants.
In Prostějov, we planted trees, shrubs and grassy areas along Ječná Street to help mitigate the effects of erosion and improve air quality.
All measures contribute to environmental protection and adaptation to climate change.
Overall, the project had a comprehensive positive impact on the environment in the cities concerned, particularly in the following areas:
- Improved air quality,
- improvements in water management,
- reduction of the heat island of the cities,
- promotion of biodiversity,
- improving the aesthetics of the cities.
In addition to the above, the project has raised awareness of the importance of environmental protection among urban residents and promoted cooperation and exchange of experiences among project partners. The implemented measures contribute to the sustainability of the cities and ensure a healthy and pleasant living environment for their inhabitants.