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Description
This project is a response to the detected issues related to climate changes and subsequently adaptation to them. The issues include: fast flow of rain waters from the areas of Łapy Commune, low resistance to phenomenon of drought and heat waves, occurrence of the phenomenon of urban „island of heat”, poor state of green areas, low energy efficiency of streetlights, and poor ecological awareness of inhabitants of Łapy Commune. The project is therefore a reply to these detected problems and stems from the “Local Development Plan for the City and Commune”.
The project covers the below actions in the scope of adopting to climate changes and minimizing their effects:
- Creation of rain gardens
- Creation of pocket parks
- Introduction of drainage through applying permeable surfaces
- Planting green areas along streets
- Planting green areas on the part of building roof of the Incubator of Entrepreneurship in Łapy
- Improving energy efficiency through modernizing streetlights
- Carrying out education-information campaign
The project will result in climate change adaptation in the area of Łapy Commune and it will improve the awareness of such changes among the residents of Łapy Commune. The target group is the inhabitants of Łapy Commune and visitors to the area. Recipients include representatives of local authorities, as well as the natural environment – animate and inanimate.
The project partner INTBAU Norway will participate in the opening conference the project. The partner will share their knowledge and experience on the balanced development of urban areas, with regards to climate changes. This will bring added value to the project, allowing the authorities of Łapy Commune to learn about examples of good practices in this field that are used around the world.
Summary of project results
The project “Hand in hand with nature in Lapy – adjustment to climate changes” was implemented as a comprehensive response to the problems and challenges posed by climate change, which are increasingly felt by local communities. The aim of the project was to improve the quality of life for residents and enhance the resilience of the town and municipality of Lapy to the negative effects of climate change.
Key issues and challenges addressed by the project:
- Rapid runoff of rainwater in the Lapy municipality
Dynamic urbanization and the lack of adequate rainwater retention systems had led to rapid runoff, increasing the risk of flooding and limiting the effective use of rainwater. The project focused on solutions that allowed water to be retained at the site of rainfall, such as rain gardens and permeable surfaces. This reduced the risk of local flooding and improved water availability during dry periods.
- Low resilience to drought and heatwaves
Like many other towns, Lapy faced a lack of systems supporting water retention and insufficient greenery capable of storing moisture. As part of the project, green areas were expanded, and solutions such as pocket parks and green roofs were introduced. These actions significantly improved the microclimate and enhanced water management during periods of drought and heatwaves.
- Urban heat island phenomenon
The overheating of built-up areas during summer was caused by insufficient greenery and natural water bodies in urban spaces. The project introduced new tree and plant plantings, improved existing green spaces, and adapted the municipal pond and its surroundings. These measures helped lower temperatures in urban areas and increased residents'' comfort during hot months.
- Poor condition of green spaces
Green areas were degraded and underutilized, both ecologically and recreationally. The project involved revitalizing existing green areas and creating new ones, which became places for relaxation, recreation, and increased local biodiversity.
- Low energy efficiency of street lighting
The previously used outdated street lighting generated high operating costs and increased CO₂ emissions. The project enabled the modernization of street lighting by introducing modern, energy-efficient LED lamps, contributing to reduced energy consumption and lowering the town''s carbon footprint.
- Low ecological awareness among Lapy residents
A lack of knowledge about climate change and the benefits of green-blue infrastructure was a significant barrier to community engagement in pro-environmental actions. As part of the project, educational and informational campaigns were conducted, increasing residents'' awareness and encouraging them to actively participate in environmental protection efforts.
The project “Hand in hand with nature in Lapy – adjustment to climate changes” has brought a range of tangible benefits and lasting effects that significantly improved the quality of life for residents and the urban environment. Through comprehensive actions in various areas, the project has become an example of an effective approach to adapting a city to climate change.
Key actions, outputs, and their effects
- Creation of rain gardens
Rain gardens were established throughout the town and municipality, serving as one of the key elements of green-blue infrastructure. They retain rainwater, reducing the risk of flooding and overloading the sewage system. Additionally, they support local biodiversity, improve air quality, and enhance the aesthetics of urban spaces.
- Creation of pocket parks
The newly established pocket parks are small, carefully designed green spaces that quickly became popular spots for residents to relax. These parks improve the microclimate, increase biologically active surfaces, and provide shade and cooling on hot days. They also play an important role in environmental education, showcasing how small spaces can contribute to environmental protection.
- Introduction of permeable surfaces
Permeable surfaces were implemented in key urban locations, allowing rainwater to infiltrate the soil. This improved rainwater management, mitigated the “concrete desert” effect, and prevented rapid runoff into the sewage system.
- Establishment of green spaces along streets
New plants were added along the streets of the town and municipality, enhancing the aesthetics of public spaces, increasing shade on hot days, and improving air quality. These actions also reduced noise levels and created a more pedestrian-friendly environment.
- Green roof installation on the Lapy Entrepreneurship Center
The green roof of the building improved thermal insulation, reducing cooling and heating costs, and increased green space in the town. This innovative solution reduces the urban heat island effect, supports rainwater retention, and positively impacts air quality.
- Modernization and cleaning of the municipal pond and adaptation of surrounding areas
The municipal pond underwent comprehensive modernization, including cleaning the water reservoir and redeveloping its surroundings. These actions restored the pond’s ecological function, improved living conditions for local flora and fauna, and created new recreational spaces attractive to both residents and tourists.
- Improvement of energy efficiency through modernization of street lighting
Street lighting was modernized by replacing outdated lamps with energy-efficient LED fixtures. Additionally, smart control devices were installed to manage the street lighting system. This significantly reduced electricity consumption, maintenance costs, and CO₂ emissions.
- Implementation of an educational and informational campaign
The educational campaign was a key element of the project, involving wide-ranging activities and engaging all residents. It included the publication of press articles and informational brochures, educational booths at cultural and sports events, contests (e.g., art and knowledge competitions), educational activities in schools and preschools (such as workshops, an educational play, and tree planting actions), as well as training sessions, workshops, and conferences focused on green-blue infrastructure and climate change adaptation. The campaign undoubtedly increased residents’ awareness of climate change and ways to mitigate its effects. It also enhanced community involvement in environmental protection activities.
Key project outputs:
- 32 rain gardens
- 17 pocket parks
- 3 060,49 m² of permeable surfaces and 2 004,30 m² of semi-permeable surfaces
- 37 new green spaces
- 1 green roof
- 1 modernized municipal pond and surrounding areas
- 2 538 modernized street lighting lamps
- 6 press articles on climate change topics
- 4 brochures on climate change topics
The project outputs represent not only specific technical solutions but also elements that support the long-term sustainable development of the town and municipality of Lapy. The implemented solutions contribute to improving residents’ quality of life, protecting the environment, and enhancing the town’s resilience to changing climate conditions.
The implementation of the project “Hand in hand with nature in Lapy – adjustment to climate changes” has delivered numerous positive results that significantly impacted the urban environment, residents'' quality of life, and local infrastructure. Thanks to the actions undertaken, the Municipality of Lapy has become more resilient to the effects of climate change while being more environmentally friendly and comfortable for the local community.
Project outcomes
- Improved rainwater management and increased water retention
The creation of rain gardens in strategic locations within the town and municipality enabled the efficient collection and use of rainwater, reducing the risk of flooding and improving the town’s water balance. The introduction of permeable surfaces allowed for natural drainage and water infiltration, easing the load on municipal sewage systems. Cleaning and transforming the municipal pond into an element of green-blue infrastructure not only enhanced the aesthetics of the space but also increased the area''s retention capacity.
- Increased quantity and quality of green spaces
The establishment of pocket parks enriched the town''s landscape with new green spaces that serve recreational, educational, and ecological functions. Greenery planting along streets improved the aesthetics of urban arteries, increased shade during hot weather, and enhanced air quality. The green roof on the Entrepreneurship Center building reduced the urban heat island effect, improved building insulation, and supported rainwater retention.
- Modernized recreational spaces
The municipal pond and its surroundings were modernized, creating an attractive recreational area while preserving ecological values. This area has become a popular spot for meetings, relaxation, and recreation for residents while supporting biodiversity.
- Enhanced energy efficiency
The modernization of street lighting, involving the use of LED lamps and smart lighting control systems, delivered tangible benefits such as reduced energy consumption, lower operational costs, and decreased greenhouse gas emissions.
- Education and increased ecological awareness
Educational and informational campaigns included a variety of activities such as workshops, competitions, training sessions, conferences, and publications. As a result, residents—especially children and youth—gained knowledge about environmental protection, climate change, and the benefits of green-blue infrastructure.
Project beneficiaries
- Residents of the town and municipality of Lapy – The improved infrastructure enhanced residents'' quality of life by providing new spaces for relaxation, shade on hot days, and a more pleasant urban environment.
- Entrepreneurs and users of the Entrepreneurship Center – The green roof and modernization of the Entrepreneurship Center''s surroundings increased the appeal of this space, improving working conditions and the usability of the building.
- Children, youth, and educators – Educational campaigns raised ecological awareness among younger residents and teachers, fostering a sense of environmental responsibility within the local community.
- Local flora and fauna – New plantings and the restoration of water bodies created better conditions for plants and animals, supporting biodiversity and improving the ecological balance in the town.
- Local authorities and infrastructure managers – Modernized infrastructure, including energy-efficient lighting, contributed to lower maintenance costs, improved energy efficiency, and better resource management.
The project has had a significant impact on the sustainable development of the Municipality of Lapy. Increased resilience to climate change, improved residents'' quality of life, and protection of local nature provide a strong foundation for future pro-environmental initiatives. Through community involvement and the development of green-blue infrastructure, Lapy has become a model town actively working towards environmental protection and adaptation to changing climate conditions.
Summary of bilateral results
The project "Hand in hand with nature in Lapy – adjustment to climate changes" gained significant benefits from its partnership with the Norwegian association INTBAU Norway. This collaboration brought the following results: -Exchange of knowledge and experience- The partnership enabled the Lapy municipality to benefit from the extensive experience of experts in green-blue infrastructure, ecology, and sustainable development. Norwegian specialists introduced a unique approach to urban space planning. -Implementation of green-blue infrastructure - The implementation of green-blue infrastructure as part of the project was a key element of efforts to enhance the municipality''s adaptability to climate change. Through the partnership with INTBAU Norway, modern solutions were introduced that combined environmental needs with the aesthetics of urban spaces.-Education and raising ecological awareness - Education and raising ecological awareness were key components of the project. The partnership enabled the implementation of extensive educational activities aimed at increasing residents'' knowledge about climate change and sustainable development. The project organized numerous conferences, workshops, and informational meetings attended by both local residents and experts from Norway.At the bilateral level, the project achieved several key results, highlighting the benefits of collaboration between Poland and Norway. These results include:1. Exchange of knowledge and experience2. Strengthened institutional capacity3. Cultural and social exchange4. Implementation of sustainable solutions5. Promotion of environmental awareness6. Financial and technical supportThe success of the project “ Hand in hand with nature in Lapy – adjustment to climate changes” has laid the groundwork for plans to continue and expand bilateral cooperation between Poland and Norway.