NATURED is a transnational project to help cities in the Adriatic-Ionian region prepare for climate risks, particularly flash flooding and urban heat islands. Its approach centres on nature-based solutions (NbS), with the stated aim of making urban resilience planning fairer and more inclusive, especially for people most exposed to floods and heat. The project argues for bringing these measures into city planning and public works, where infrastructure choices have often favoured conventional “grey” approaches. 1
Running from 1 July 2024 to 31 December 2026, NATURED is led by the Romagna Faentina Union in Italy, with Elisabetta Di Martino as the listed contact person. The partnership brings together 12 partners and three associated partners from nine countries, including local and regional authorities, development agencies, and research and higher-education institutions. 15
The work combines climate-risk assessment with local engagement: partners are developing databases and digital maps of urban hazards and vulnerability, consulting residents and stakeholders, and preparing action plans for NbS. Proposed measures are to be tested through pilot actions and, where effective, incorporated into city planning instruments for possible wider use. 15 By June 2025, project partners reported more than 35 meetings planned or held in 11 cities and over 400 participants in local seminars; the work included city-level risk assessments and training activities. 5 In Niš, for example, a vulnerability map identified extensive exposure to urban heat, with parks and larger green areas standing out as exceptions; a pilot was being planned to demonstrate possible responses. 4
The project’s total budget is €1,269,913.13, of which €1,079,426.13 comes from Interreg funds. 1