Berlin Knowledge Exchange Visit

A field visit of the Co-ADAPT Project was successfully carried out in Berlin on 18–19 February 2026, bringing together project partners for a comprehensive knowledge exchange and on-site exploration of nature-based solutions (NbS). The visit combined strategic discussions, expert input, and field-based learning to deepen understanding of how urban areas can adapt to climate change and biodiversity loss through integrated, community-driven approaches.

The programme began at the UfU (Independent Institute for Environmental Issues) office, where partners presented their experiences with nature-based solutions and stakeholder engagement in their respective cities. These sessions provided valuable insights into local challenges, opportunities, and methodologies, fostering mutual learning across Berlin, Vienna, Ankara, and Košice. In addition, discussions focused on the project’s communication strategy and the importance of making project outputs accessible, including a dedicated session on preparing barrier-free digital materials in line with PAC standards.

A key component of the visit was the contribution of a Berlin district climate adaptation manager, who presented local strategies for urban climate resilience. This session highlighted how municipalities integrate water-sensitive planning, green infrastructure, and biodiversity considerations into policy and practice, underlining the importance of aligning community initiatives with institutional frameworks.
The field visits offered direct exposure to innovative NbS applications across different urban scales. At the Floating University, a former rainwater retention basin transformed into a nature-cultural learning site, participants explored how water infrastructure can be reimagined as a space for education, experimentation, and community engagement. This site exemplifies the “sponge city” concept, where rainwater is retained, reused, and integrated into urban ecosystems.

Further insights were gained during the visit to Humboldt University, where façade greening systems and rainwater harvesting infrastructure demonstrated how buildings can actively contribute to climate adaptation. Presentations by experts, including examples from ufaFabrik and Potsdamer Platz, illustrated how such systems can be scaled and embedded into urban design.

The most impactful part of the visit focused on neighbourhood-level initiatives. In Fritschestraße, participants observed citizen-led rainwater collection systems used to support urban greenery. In Graefekiez, a walk-and-talk session with a local initiative showcased how residents and city administration collaborate to green public spaces. These examples highlighted the critical role of community participation in implementing small-scale, replicable NbS that can be adapted to different urban contexts.
Overall, the Berlin field visit demonstrated that effective climate adaptation in cities requires a multi-level approach, combining policy frameworks, technical solutions, and active citizen engagement. It showed that small-scale, community-driven interventions—such as rain gardens, façade greening, and local water management systems—can collectively contribute to more resilient, liveable, and sustainable urban environments.