Complex Frontier Research Projects 2025 (CFRP)

The "Complex Frontier Research Projects" PCCF 2024 competition will be launched in the near future. Our team is looking for partners to develop a project based on the following premises:

- THEMATIC: Climate SMART solutions for the empowerment of climate-neutral local communities

- Project title: SMART Climate Solutions for Medium and Small Urban Areas [OR CITIES (Climate-neutral Initiatives for Transition in Empowered Small towns)]

- Summary (a brief overview of the objectives, research methodology, expected research results and impact) - max. 1.500 characters including spaces:

In the face of global climate challenges, small and medium-sized cities and towns play a crucial role in taking sustainable action and increasing community resilience. The SMARTCLIM project responds to these challenges by developing smart, integrated and replicable climate solutions that support the transition towards a sustainable and resilient future, empowering local communities to become active actors in this process.

A key component of the SMARTCLIM methodology is participatory design, which involves authorities, citizens and experts in developing solutions. This process ensures optimal adaptation to local needs while strengthening community involvement in their implementation.

The primary objective of the SMARTCLIM project is to create a holistic model of sustainable urban development to ensure accurate and coherent results of adaptation of medium and small cities to climate change with the following secondary objectives: Identification of climate vulnerabilities and community needs through data collection and case studies; Green energy and energy efficiency of public and private buildings through retrofitting efficient thermal insulation and use of green materials; Nature-based solutions with the development of multifunctional green areas to mitigate the effects of heat islands and improve air quality; Development of adaptation plans to reduce the vulnerability of medium and small cities to the effects of climate change (floods, droughts, heat waves); Implementation of educational campaigns and training sessions for citizens, promoting a culture of sustainability; Dissemination of results achieved through: Participation in conferences, seminars or other relevant events.

Through the implementation of the SMARTCLIM project, it is expected to create user-friendly digital platforms that enable citizens to monitor resource use and adopt more sustainable behaviors. In addition, the pilot solutions will provide a concrete framework for replication in other similar urban communities.

For more information please contact Dr. Habil. Eng. Rares Halbac-Cotoara-Zamfir (rares.halbac-cotoara-zamfir@upt.ro)