The Policy Learning Platform hosted a peer review in the Hauts-de-France Region to address their critical policy challenges in enhancing climate resilience, particularly against floods and droughts. Seeking expert insights, the region welcomed recommendations from peers across Europe on governance strategies, conflict mitigation between rural and urban areas, and the use of nature-based solutions.
Key Topics Explored in the Peer Review:
Governance Strategies:
- A long-term, strategic approach is essential, moving beyond reactive, event-based policies. Policies should be informed by science and expertise.
- Effective climate risk governance must be holistic, cutting across silos to involve all levels of government and stakeholders.
- Building collaborative networks with farmers and landowners can create sustainable value and incentivize proactive climate action in agriculture.
Awareness Raising and Communication:
- Local feedback is crucial; understanding concerns first allows for more targeted and effective messaging.
- Engaging the communication department early ensures consistent messaging, supported by simple, clear communication tools and data visualizations to educate communities.
- Surveying citizens can gauge public understanding, while localized education and involvement of communities build long-term resilience.
Nature-Based Solutions:
- Hybrid infrastructure, combining natural and engineered solutions, offers the most robust protection against climate events.
- Nature-based solutions should be valued not only for flood protection but for benefits like climate resilience, economic savings, and biodiversity.
- Tools like suitability maps and a Regional Nature Recovery Strategy can guide sustainable land use, reduce flood risks, and optimize crop placements.
The recommendations developed during the review will be included in a follow-up report, providing Hauts-de-France with a comprehensive guide to strengthen regional climate resilience.