JustREACH is a Horizon Europe-funded project that helps local and regional authorities across Europe to design and implement climate adaptation measures that are both effective and socially just. Its overarching goal is to advance just climate resilience by supporting informed decision-making that connects adaptation efforts with regional innovation and development priorities. To achieve its objectives, JustREACH combines empirical research, co-creation methodologies, and real-world testing across five pilot regions: Lake Constance (Germany), Athens (Greece), Belfast (United Kingdom), Zagreb (Croatia) and Nouvelle-Aquitaine (France). These regions represent diverse environmental and socio-economic contexts including Europe’s Northern, Western, Central-Eastern, and Southern climate adaptation regions as well as urban, industrial, and rural settings. Through its frameworks, models, and tools, the project aims to strengthen the capacity of public authorities, industries, businesses, and citizens to implement local adaptation measures, while meeting regional socio-economic policy objectives.
Lake Constance, Germany
This region faces heat, drought and extreme weather that affect both ecosystems and infrastructure. Cooperation among small municipalities, local authorities and businesses helps develop solutions that support rural communities and strengthen regional collaboration.
Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb experiences both flooding and heatwaves. By integrating adaptation into everyday planning and climate-proofing public investments, the city works to improve governance systems and contribute to a national adaptation hub.
Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France
In its rural areas, heat, drought and floods put pressure on agriculture and local livelihoods. The project brings together farmers, authorities and community organisations to explore adaptation practices that boost resilience while supporting sustainable regional development.
Belfast, United Kingdom
Belfast faces flooding and heat risks within an urban setting. Through collaborative planning, local residents, researchers and public bodies work to develop nature-based and community-driven solutions that also support a greener, more inclusive city.
Athens, Greece
Heat, water scarcity and wildfires challenge both the natural environment and urban life in Athens. The project promotes integrated water management, circular economy measures and green employment strategies that link resilience with social innovation.