On August 27, 2025, Daniel Sempere-Torres, director of CRAHI at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya and co-coordinator of the CLIMAAX project, presented “CLIMAAX: Empowering Local Action for Climate Adaptation in Europe” at the NSF NCAR Research Applications Laboratory (RAL) Seminar Series. NSF NCAR, the U.S. National Center for Atmospheric Research funded by the National Science Foundation, is a leading center advancing our understanding of the atmosphere and climate.

Sempere-Torres showcased how CLIMAAX helps “early adopter” regions and municipalities—those on the front lines of climate impacts—use a science-based methodology for assessing risks. Through the project’s Handbook and Toolbox, communities across Europe are learning to anticipate future climate challenges, communicate them clearly, and turn insights into practical adaptation plans.

With over 60 implementations already underway, CLIMAAX illustrates how combining solid science, local ownership, and targeted funding can speed up adaptation efforts. The project also highlights the power of international collaboration and offers a model that could inspire similar initiatives beyond Europe.