Climate change has long been a reality and a serious threat that the Mediterranean must face. Droughts, floods, extreme temperatures – these are all challenges we are confronting. In search of concrete solutions, experts, scientists, and representatives of the 34 partners of the DesirMED project gathered at the General Assembly in Valencia from February 25 to 27. The project focuses on transforming the Mediterranean through innovative nature-based solutions (NbS).
The Mediterranean united for solutions
Vicente Martínez Mus, the Regional Minister for Environment, Infrastructure and Territory of Valencia, opened the first day by welcoming the attendees and emphasizing the urgent need to adapt to climate change.
Elisa Furlan (CMCC), the project coordinator, presented the successful outcomes of the first workshops organized by regional partners, which led to the definition of regional visions and guidelines for transformation. She reminded everyone that the project aims to enhance the ambition, ownership, and capacity of Mediterranean regional leaders and communities through proven transformative approaches to climate change adaptation, with a strong emphasis on nature-based solutions.
One of the most notable speeches was delivered on the second day by Samira Khodayar Pardo, Head of the Department of Meteorology and Climatology at the Mediterranean Center for Environmental Studies (CEAM). She highlighted the dramatic impacts of climate change. Specifically, heatwaves and droughts are expected to last longer, increasing wildfire risks, while autumn rainfall will become more intense, leading to even more severe flooding. She warned that temperatures could rise by more than 2°C in the next decade and over 5°C by the end of the century. Even if emissions were reduced to zero today, the consequences of the damage already done would still be felt.
The thematically relevant projects NBRACER, TRANSFORMAR, TRANSEATION, and BGG were also presented. These projects are key as they offer concrete examples of innovative approaches, tools, scientific foundations, and collaboration models that Mediterranean regions can replicate.
At the General Assembly, the ArcGIS StoryMap of the Split-Dalmatia County was presented, showcasing the key climate challenges and potential solutions within the DesirMED project. [LINK]
DesirMED workshops: collaboration as the foundation for future solutions
Participants took part in a variety of parallel workshops, designed to deepen knowledge and collaboratively develop solutions in key areas. The partners analyzed policy frameworks and institutional mechanisms that will enable effective climate action. They explored financial models for scaling up nature-based solutions (NbS), seeking innovative ways to fund projects that combine ecological restoration with social benefits.
Discussions also focused on how changes in governance systems can drive long-term adaptation rather than just temporary fixes. Additionally, participants worked on building capacity to monitor the effectiveness of NbS projects and to standardize methodologies.
Each partner brought their own experience and expertise, and the workshops were designed to share concrete examples and tools to be used in the next phases of the project. Through interactive discussions and practical exercises, participants created a shared repertoire of solutions to be implemented in their respective regions.
Practical solutions in Valencia
At the Assembly, examples of best practices in NbS were presented, but it was not all just theory. Participants visited the El Saler natural park to see firsthand the forest management strategies for fire prevention, with a focus on protecting urban-forest interfaces used in Valencia. The Servei de Prevenció d’Incendis Forestals Generalitat Valenciana and VAERSA Fire Prevention Department have established a mobile unit equipped with special sensors to monitor the moisture level in the trees in El Saler natural park and assess fire risk. When the moisture level drops dangerously low, the unit activates water cannons to soak the trees.
Additionally, they visited La Devesa beach, where dune restoration and sand replenishment projects are underway to slow down coastal erosion. They also visited the artificial wetland Tancat de L’Illa in the Albufera de Valencia, developed to restore water quality and ecosystems. These methods, known as nature-based solutions (NbS), are increasingly being used in the fight against climate change.
DesirMED, funded through the Horizon Europe program, demonstrates that a combination of scientific research, local engagement, and nature-based solutions can transform the Mediterranean from a vulnerable area into a space of resilience. How these models will be replicated in other regions remains a key question for the next four years of the project’s duration. The Mediterranean is changing, and it is up to us whether these changes will be destructive or if we will turn them toward a sustainable future.
