With the rise in heatwaves and extreme weather events, European cities are responding with targeted and innovative strategies to ensure citizens’ well-being and safety. The European project Cool Noons is at the forefront in defining and testing these solutions, with a special focus on climate shelters and urban regeneration.
Climate Shelters: small solutions, big benefits
A climate shelter is a public or easily accessible space specifically designed to provide relief during the hottest hours of summer days. These spaces not only improve thermal comfort but also serve as public health resources in urban areas, especially protecting the most vulnerable groups.
Some of the most effective examples include air-conditioned libraries and museums, shaded urban parks and gardens, squares equipped with fountains or misting systems, and rest areas with shaded benches.
In the Cool Noons project, climate shelters are integrated into Cool Paths: urban routes that combine green spaces, water points, and ventilated corridors to ensure maximum comfort during periods of intense heat.
Urban Regeneration: designing tomorrow’s cities today
Urban regeneration goes beyond simple redevelopment: it is a strategic transformation of existing urban spaces—often underused or degraded—into more sustainable and livable environments. In the context of climate change, regeneration means equipping cities with tools to withstand and adapt to extreme events.
These actions include increasing green and permeable areas, creating safe and shaded cycling and walking paths, repurposing buildings for social and cultural functions, and integrating water-based solutions such as fountains and urban cooling points.
Tangible and lasting impacts
Cities that adopt these strategies not only improve the quality of life for their residents but also become models of urban sustainability, attracting conscious tourism and increasing their overall appeal.
Cool Noons is testing these solutions in five pilot cities — Marseille, Imola, Lisbon, Dubrovnik, and Budva — offering a replicable model of climate adaptation and sustainable urban development.
Learn more and follow our updates on social media to stay informed about all the initiatives and solutions developed by the Cool Noons project.
