International Collaboration Strengthens the Territorial Agenda 2030: Critical Friend Visit to Portugal
The Territorial Agenda 2030 takes a step forward in advancing climate change adaptation and resilience strategies with the upcoming Critical Friend Visit to Portugal. In an exciting collaboration between the Network of Territorial Cohesion Contact Points (NTCCP) and Portuguese and Croatian partners, this visit promises to foster valuable exchanges of ideas and expertise to tackle the challenges posed by climate change.
Scheduled for September 21st and 22nd, the Critical Friend Visit invites members of the NTCCP to participate in a peer review of the final report of the Pilot Action ‘Climate change adaptation and resilience through landscape transition’. This joint effort by Portuguese and Croatian partners aims to put the Territorial Agenda 2030 into practice and pave the way for future development.
The concept of a ‘critical friend’ underscores the supportive yet discerning role of the reviewers, providing an objective and honest assessment of the work being reviewed. It is an opportunity for participants to contribute their feedback and recommendations, ensuring the continuous improvement of the Pilot Action and the development of effective strategies.
The Critical Friend Visit will offer insight into the strategies and practices employed to tackle climate change adaptation and resilience through landscape transition. By creating a collaborative environment that encourages the exchange of ideas and experiences, this visit aims to generate innovative solutions that address the pressing challenges of our time.
The Portuguese Directorate-General for Territory (DGT) and its esteemed partners, including the Portuguese Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests (ICNF), the Regional Coordination and Development Commission (CCDR) of Algarve, and the Municipalities of Monchique and Silves, are eagerly anticipating the arrival of the NTCCP members. Together with their Croatian counterparts, the Institute of Physical Planning of Primorje and Gorski Kotar County and the Croatian Institute for Spatial Development, they will present the Final Report of their joint Pilot Action.
Over the course of two days, participants will embark on a journey that starts from the vibrant heart of Lisbon and ventures into the rugged landscapes of the Serras of Monchique and Silves. Stops in Alcácer do Sal, Fóia, and at the Cape of St. Vincent in Sagres, the southwesternmost point of Portugal and of mainland Europe, highlight the intertwined relationship between natural dynamics and socio-economic factors that shapes coastal areas.
Moreover, the visit will shed light on sustainable development efforts in both Portugal and Croatia, showcasing the significance of landscape transition programmes and their role in fostering resilience to recurring rural fires. In the captivating landscape of Algarve, participants will engage in meaningful discussions while exploring the stunning surroundings of the Serras of Monchique and Silves.
The Territorial Agenda 2030 is excited to witness this exchange of expertise and ideas, enriching the Pilot’s Final Report and propelling the collective efforts towards achieving the objectives of the agenda. As the participants gather in Portugal, this Critical Friend Visit promises to forge new partnerships and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future.
More information about the event, including the detailed programme, will be provided in the coming weeks. For any inquiries or additional information, please feel free to reach out to the Portuguese Directorate-General for Territory at mmagalhaes@dgterritorio.pt (contact: Marta Magalhães).