CONE - meeting in České Budějovice 1-3.10.2025

Another successful international collaboration is behind us!

This time, we gathered in our small living lab in České Budějovice as part of the Interreg Central Europe CONE – Cities of Nature project, where we aim to implement and test a variety of Nature-based Solutions (NbS).

From 1–3 October 2025, we took part in a conference and study visit hosted by our Czech partners, joined by the entire consortium representing diverse institutions from across Central Europe — including our colleagues from the City of Wejherowo, the City and Municipality of Sztum, and Gdańsk University of Technology.

Over three days of work and discussion, our southern neighbours demonstrated how effectively they are preparing their cities and engaging local communities in promoting nature-based solutions as a means to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change.

They also showed us how essential it has become to rediscover and apply NbS in building sustainable cities and societies — as tools that connect tradition, history, culture, and a safe, friendly living environment for local communities.

During the study visits, we had the opportunity to see how rain gardens and green infrastructure are being implemented in the Czech Republic, particularly in the South Bohemian region. These initiatives help improve water quality, enhance biodiversity, and strengthen urban resilience to climate change.

We also learned how medium-sized cities, facing challenges such as their location at the confluence of the Vltava and Malše rivers, are adapting to climate threats and creating safer, more livable environments for their residents.

The event also included a series of interviews, consultations, and planning sessions focused on the next steps for our pilot activities and technical work, all aimed at building resilient and inclusive communities across Central Europe.