Experts Gather in Varaždin for Climate Sandbox Workshop

On May 27, 2025, the second workshop of the Be Ready project took place in the elegant setting of Herzer Palace in Varaždin, Croatia. The event brought together professionals in urban planning, environmental protection, spatial development, and sustainable growth, as well as representatives from local and regional authorities and project partners from across Croatia.

Through a dynamic and interactive program, participants explored up-to-date data, practical measures, and inspiring real-life examples aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change in urban environments.

The introductory presentation was delivered by Filip Bišćević from the North Development Agency, who gave an overview of the activities and achievements of the project so far, emphasizing the importance of integrating green, blue, and white infrastructure solutions into everyday urban planning processes.

Following this, Mateja Leljak from 3E projekti presented a key deliverable of the project – the Urban Heat Islands Vulnerability and Risk Assessment for the City of Varaždin. This comprehensive document - the first of its kind in Croatia - offering an in-depth analysis of spatial, infrastructural, and socio-demographic factors that contribute to urban heat vulnerability. It also provides actionable recommendations for reducing heat stress through nature-based and sustainable solutions.

Interest was sparked by the presentation on current works at Mali plac in Varaždin, where the Municipality is implementing green elements and transforming the space to reduce heat radiation and increase comfort for citizens.

The workshop was further enriched by showcasing good practice examples from other Croatian cities:

·        City of Koprivnica and its Green Urban Renewal Strategy.

·        The green entrepreneurial zone in Garešnica, demonstrating the synergy between sustainable economic development and climate resilience.

·        And the PopUp Urban Spaces project, which utilizes temporary urban interventions and modular solutions to create functional, green, and inclusive public spaces.

The final part of the workshop was dedicated to an open discussion and practical group work, where participants collaboratively identified strategic guidelines for further local-level action, with a strong emphasis on spatial planning, citizen involvement, and cross-sectoral cooperation.