A world summit to strengthen adaptation in coastal cities and regions

Cécile Sabourault, Vice-President, International Development and Europe, and Director of the ECOSEAS laboratory, represented the University at the summit. at the summit, taking part in one of the thematic workshops alongside elected representatives, experts and networks of committed players.

A key moment for local scientific diplomacy

Université Côte d'Azur's participation in this world summit is in line with its ongoing commitment to the adaptation of Mediterranean coastlines and the development of international cooperation based on science and territorial dialogue.
Launched on this occasion, the Ocean Rise & Coastal Resilience Coalition, now hosted by the Global Centre for Climate Mobility (GCCM) under the aegis ofUNOPS, has set itself the mission of accelerating coastal adaptation by promoting cooperation between coastal territories, scientific players, civil society and the business world.
At the opening of the summit, French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated that these challenges do not only concern cities directly threatened by climate change, but also all players capable of developing innovative solutions.

5 pillars of action to support the transition of coastal regions

The Coalition's work revolves around five major axes

• Mobilizing local and international players

• Enhancing and sharing scientific and local knowledge

• Capacity-building and technical support

• Access to funding and resources

• Lobbying international bodies

New opportunities for coastal regions

The summit also saw the announcement of several concrete measures to support cities and regions in this transition:

• The launch of theSpace4Ocean Alliance by CNES to co-construct satellite-based tools for coastal resilience,
• A new ESA funding program dedicated to "Coastal Resilience to Climate Change",
• A call for projects from the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs to support decentralized cooperation,
• European funding as part of the Horizon Europe mission "Restore our Ocean and Waters",
• The launch of the C-CAF fund by the GCCM to support locally-led adaptation projects.

By taking part in this summit, Université Côte d'Azur has reaffirmed the central role played by the academic world in supporting territories in the face of coastal and climate change.The University will pursue its commitment by strengthening its links with coastal communities, scientific partners and international networks.