4th April 2025: Hybrid Workshop “How European Cohesion Policy can Mitigate the Economic Impacts of Climate Change on European Islands”

 

Workshop Title: How European Cohesion Policy can Mitigate the Economic Impacts of Climate Change on European Islands

Date / time: Friday, April 4th, 2025 - from 10.30AM to 1.00PM   Location: European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), Brussels  

 

Format: Hybrid (In-person and Online)  

 

Organizers: Network of the Insular Chambers of Commerce and Industry of the EU (INSULEUR) in partnership with the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), with cooperation from the CPMR Islands Commission and the European Small Islands Federation (ESIN)  

 

Languages: Interpretation will be provided in EN, IT, EL spoken and understood and ES only spoken  

 

Registration link (mandatory) : https://forms.gle/8C84RxtP5hqLhdFX7      

 

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How European Cohesion Policy Could Help Islands Face Climate Challenges

 

Islands are on the front lines of climate change, yet they remain underrepresented in policy discussions. Their unique vulnerabilities-geographic isolation, extensive coastlines, and economic dependence on tourism and maritime transport-make adaptation a top priority. Research shows that economic losses for islands could more than double under all climate scenarios, threatening their economic and social stability.

 

This urgent challenge will be the focus of the upcoming workshop "How European Cohesion Policy Could Help Islands Face Climate Challenges", where experts, policymakers, and stakeholders will discuss how EU cohesion policy can be adapted to better support islands in the face of climate change.

 

Key Discussion Topics

 

The workshop will explore:

 

• A Tailored Cohesion Policy for Islands: How EU funds can be used to address island-specific vulnerabilities.
• Sustainable Infrastructure & Adaptation Strategies: Investments in coastal defenses, sustainable transport, and resilient energy systems.
• Digital & Economic Resilience: The role of digital connectivity in fostering economic diversification.
• Renewable Energy & Biodiversity Protection: How islands can transition to sustainable energy and safeguard their natural ecosystems.
• Funding & Implementation: Best practices for mobilizing EU resources and ensuring efficient program delivery.

 

 

By tailoring EU cohesion policy to the specific challenges of islands, the European Union can foster resilience and economic stability. This workshop will provide a platform for discussing innovative solutions, funding mechanisms, and policy recommendations to support islands in their climate adaptation efforts. Join us to contribute to this crucial debate and help shape future strategies for island sustainability.