LAND4CLIMATE showcased at SGEM 2025: Advancing Local Climate Action through Interdisciplinary Dialogue
Albena, Bulgaria – 24–29 August 2025
LAND4CLIMATE took an active role at SGEM Social & Arts 2025, one of the most renowned international conferences focused on social sciences, humanities, and the arts. The event brought together researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to explore how interdisciplinary approaches can drive sustainable change.
Land4climate partner, Politehnica University Timișoara (UPT) organized and led an international workshop titled:
“Local Climate Action in Practice: Scaling Adaptation and Nature-Based Solutions through Knowledge, Support, and Stakeholder Input.”
The session was facilitated by Lect. Dr. Habil. Eng. Rareș Hălbac-Cotoară-Zamfir and psychologist Cristina Hălbac-Cotoară-Zamfir, both affiliated with UPT
A workshop bridging research, practice, and participation
The workshop session offered a dynamic platform for dialogue on how to effectively implement Climate Adaptation Plans and Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) at the local level, with a particular focus on private landowners and community engagement.
Workshop highlights included: a joint introduction to the LAND4CLIMATE and other similar projects, a structured survey collecting insights on NBS implementation barriers and opportunities and a moderated open-floor session to explore collaboration opportunities.
Strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration
The workshop clearly demonstrated the added value of social sciences in climate action. Beyond technical innovation, achieving climate resilience requires a deep understanding of local behaviours, risk perception, and community needs.
As a multidisciplinary platform, SGEM 2025 offered an ideal setting to connect environmental engineers with psychologists, sociologists, local governance experts, and sustainability professionals.
This article was written by Cristina Hălbac-Cotoară-Zamfir from LAND4CLIMATE consortium partner Politehnica University of Timișoara.
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