EU climate adaptation projects bring resilience closer to communities

The European Union has unveiled the 2026 edition of its Mission Projects Catalogue, which shows 65 Horizon Europe-funded projects that are helping communities prepare for and respond to the growing impacts of climate change

Published by the EU Mission on Adaptation to Climate Change, the Mission Projects Catalogue showcases projects tackling a wide range of environmental challenges, including floods, droughts, heatwaves, wildfires, sea-level rise, and water scarcity.

The projects cover the continent, showing how climate adaptation is becoming increasingly practical, local, and visible in everyday life.

Climate challenges

Europe’s regions face very different climate risks depending on their geography. Coastal areas are increasingly threatened by rising sea levels and storm surges, while inland regions contend with flooding, drought, and extreme heat. Northern and Arctic areas are experiencing rapid environmental changes that are affecting ecosystems, infrastructure, and local economies.

Despite these differences, many communities are adopting similar approaches to building resilience. The projects featured in the catalogue focus on place-based solutions that address local needs while contributing to broader European climate goals.

The Mission Projects Catalogue shows how adaptation is no longer viewed as a future challenge but as an ongoing process that requires action today.

Projects that are making a difference

Several projects in the catalogue illustrate the diversity of adaptation efforts taking place across Europe.

In Finland’s Lapland region, the MountResilience project is helping Arctic and mountain communities adapt to changing environmental conditions. The initiative focuses on strengthening local resilience while protecting natural ecosystems that are increasingly affected by warming temperatures.

Meanwhile, in the Dutch province of Zeeland, the NBRACER project is expanding the use of nature-based solutions to reduce the risks associated with flooding and storm surges. By working with natural landscapes, communities can improve protection while delivering environmental benefits.

In Poland, the ClimaGen project is using urban regeneration to lower flood risks in the city of Gdańsk. The approach combines climate adaptation with improvements in urban liveability, creating safer, more attractive spaces for residents.

Further south, the DesirMED project is supporting communities in Spain’s Valencian Region as they respond to rising temperatures and water scarcity. The project aims to help local authorities develop strategies that can protect both people and essential resources in a warming climate.

The Mission Projects Catalogue also highlights the growing importance of integrated adaptation strategies. Many initiatives combine ecosystem restoration, urban greening, climate risk assessments, infrastructure upgrades, and innovative financial tools such as climate insurance.

These efforts contribute directly to the EU Mission’s objectives of improving preparedness, accelerating climate adaptation, and strengthening resilience across Europe.

As climate-related events become more frequent and severe, local and regional authorities are playing a crucial role in helping communities adapt. The Mission Projects Catalogue provides a valuable overview of how European regions are turning climate ambitions into practical action.