The CLIMAAX project has supported the Comunidade Intermunicipal da Beira Baixa (CIM-BB) in strengthening its capacity to understand, assess and manage climate risks through a comprehensive three-phase approach. 

Throughout the project, the regional assessment confirmed rural wildfires and heatwaves as the two priority climate risks affecting the territory. By combining climate projections, territorial data, spatial analysis and stakeholder knowledge, the project provided a more detailed understanding of local vulnerabilities and areas requiring particular attention. 

Building on these findings, Phase 3 focused on translating climate risk assessments into practical adaptation strategies. This work resulted in the development of 10 Climate Risk Management Action Plans, addressing key challenges such as urban heat island mitigation, thermal comfort in urban planning, protection of vulnerable populations, wildfire prevention, forest fuel management, operational accessibility and the protection of critical infrastructure. 

The process also promoted collaboration between the intermunicipal community, municipalities, civil protection authorities, technical organisations and other regional stakeholders. Their involvement was essential to ensure that the proposed measures reflected local priorities and could be progressively integrated into existing planning instruments and policy frameworks. 

One of the project’s most important achievements is the creation of a practical portfolio of adaptation measures, supported by implementation roadmaps, governance arrangements and monitoring indicators. These outputs provide municipalities with a foundation for future investment decisions, climate adaptation initiatives and intermunicipal cooperation. 

For Beira Baixa, CLIMAAX represents more than a climate risk assessment: it provides a starting point for turning scientific knowledge into coordinated action and building a more resilient region.”