Following the main objective of the CICADA4CE project, activities have started in each partner city to mobilize inhabitants around a key urban challenge – climate change. Urban Living Labs (ULLs) have been established in Břeclav (Czechia), Dubnica nad Váhom (Slovakia), Kranj (Slovenia), Nichelino (Italy), and Sosnowiec (Poland), and officially opened during dedicated events.
The launch of each ULL highlights the importance of this innovative way of involving stakeholders in urban development, especially regarding climate change adaptation. The project aims to show how social capital, experience, and creativity can contribute to new perspectives and approaches to adaptation. It seeks to foster opportunities for dialogue and co-creation, demonstrating a renewed model of social participation.
Though officially opened in April, the ULLs have been active since the early stages of the project, thanks to the strong engagement of partners – both cities and supporting research and consulting institutions. The ULL is a continuous process throughout the project.
Each roadmap includes activities to engage residents – especially students and seniors – and other stakeholders on climate change and nature-based solutions (NbS), their role and benefits. The goal is to support active, informed participation in shaping a key city document and to inspire a shift in how social inclusion is approached.