This document is an essential resource for understanding the specific climate adaptation challenges and needs of the twelve RESIST regions.

It provides a comprehensive analysis of each region’s starting point, helping tailor innovative solutions to their unique vulnerabilities. With a strong focus on Nature-based Solutions (NbS), digital tools and inclusive, participatory decision-making, this assessment lays the groundwork for impactful and scalable climate adaptation efforts.

This is a great example of how to refine regional strategies with data-driven insights.

The needs assessment aims to support the regions in the RESIST project in their climate adaptation actions. To develop a plan of action for this support and to design innovative adaptation solutions, it is first necessary to understand the status quo in each region. This includes an analysis of both the immediate project activities that will be implemented and the broader regional adaptation context. Examining the baseline from which the regions are entering the project is a core component of this analysis.

The needs assessments form the first step in the Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) framework. This framework follows several overarching principles, which are integrated into the analytical approach of this needs assessment:

1. Flexible and Context-Specific Solutions – Adaptation measures are tailored to the unique needs and vulnerabilities of each region.
2. Participatory Approach – The design of adaptation solutions and decision-making processes actively involve stakeholders, with a focus on protecting the most vulnerable populations.
3. Nature-based Solutions (NbS) – In alignment with the EU Adaptation Strategy, NbS play a central role in regional climate adaptation efforts.
4. Digital Innovation – The full potential of digital tools and technologies is leveraged to enhance climate resilience.
5. Transformative Adaptation – Where possible, solutions are designed to enable large-scale and long-lasting impacts.

By establishing a strong foundation of regional needs and challenges, this assessment ensures that the adaptation actions implemented through RESIST are both effective and sustainable.