The Black Sea Basin region is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including rising temperatures, erratic precipitation, sea-level rise, and more frequent extreme weather events.

These challenges pose serious risks to urban infrastructure, agriculture, energy systems, and biodiversity.

To support local authorities in addressing these pressing issues, the project Cooperation for Sustainable Energy and Climate Actions’ Planning and Monitoring in the BSB – STEP2CleanPlan has developed a Joint Guide for Local Policymakers. This comprehensive guide offers practical, structured solutions tailored to the needs of municipalities, drawing on European best practices, local experiences from Türkiye, Greece, and Bulgaria, and international climate policy frameworks.

The guide emphasizes the importance of integrated climate governance, combining mitigation strategies (reducing greenhouse gas emissions) with adaptation measures (managing and preparing for climate impacts).

Local policymakers will find actionable recommendations on how to improve the design, funding, and implementation of local climate adaptation plans. The guide also highlights the value of using scientific data, fostering regional cooperation, and promoting multi-stakeholder engagement to develop robust adaptation strategies.

By adopting the approaches outlined in the guide, municipalities can enhance their climate resilience, secure access to funding, protect vulnerable populations, promote environmental sustainability, and drive inclusive economic growth.

This jointly developed roadmap empowers local governments to strengthen their climate action planning and lead the transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient future.

The Guide is also accessible in Bulgarian, Greek, and Turkish languages.