Participation at TerraEnVision 2024 conference

From July 6th to July 13th, 2024, S.l. Dr. Habil. Ing. Rares Halbac-Cotoara-Zamfir and drd. Cristina Halbac-Cotoara-Zamfir made significant contributions at the TerraEnVision 2024 conference in Valencia, Spain, by highlighting innovative approaches adopted in Western Romania for integrating nature-based solutions into urban planning and development.

Dr. Rares Halbac-Cotoara-Zamfir presented the paper "Implementing Nature-Based Solutions in Western Romania: Current Projects and Ongoing Initiatives for Sustainable Development," which emphasized the tangible benefits these projects (LAND4CLIMATE, ELCA, 39PHE) bring to communities, showcasing specific examples of how local ecosystems have been enhanced while simultaneously promoting sustainable development.

A second paper, titled "Blue Infrastructure in Urban Areas: A Lost Opportunity? Insights from Western Romania," presented as a poster by S.l. Dr. Habil. Ing. Rares Halbac-Cotoara-Zamfir and drd. Cristina Halbac-Cotoara-Zamfir, explored the underutilized potential of water-related infrastructure to improve urban landscapes while addressing environmental challenges. The work provided a critical look at how urban areas could better utilize natural water bodies and flows to enhance ecosystem services and urban quality of life.

Both presentations were part of the 39PHE/2024 project, funded by UEFISCDI, which also supported the costs associated with their conference participation. This project complements the Horizon Europe Land4Climate project, both emphasizing the strategic importance given to environmental research in Romania and its application in developing sustainable and practical solutions that align with global environmental objectives.