ClimateGO - Pathways to Climate-Smart Governance

ClimateGo masterimage
Together towards climate-smart covernance



ClimateGO supports cities and regions in developing robust, climate-smart governance frameworks. The initiative focuses on enhancing the competencies of public administrators and policymakers to design and implement effective climate strategies. By fostering a deeper understanding of climate challenges, ClimateGO encourages proactive decision-making that integrates both mitigation and adaptation measures.



The project brings together seven partners from six European cities and regions, all committed to strengthening climate resilience in alignment with EU objectives. This diverse partnership spans multiple levels of climate governance and policy instruments, enabling knowledge exchange and mutual learning. ClimateGO also promotes regional collaboration among stakeholders, reinforcing collective efforts toward sustainable and resilient futures.



Regional Activities in Päijät-Häme



The regional stakeholder group in Päijät-Häme comprises representatives from municipalities, cities, businesses, health and wellbeing services, and research institutions. This diverse composition enables a comprehensive approach to the project’s multidimensional themes, ensuring that various perspectives are considered in climate-related decision-making.

Key stakeholders include:



Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment (ELY Centre)

LUT University

Päijät-Häme Regional Board

City of Lahti

City of Heinola

Päijät-Häme Joint Authority for Health and Wellbeing

Osuuskauppa Hämeenmaa (Regional Cooperative Store)

Municipality of Iitti

Päijänne-Leader (Local LEADER Approach)



This collaborative structure strengthens regional capacity for climate resilience and supports the integration of local knowledge and expertise into policy development.
Project period
-
Project state
On-going
Project area
International
Project funding
Interreg Europe 2021-2027
LAB role
Lead partner
Unit
Technology
Project focus area
Intangible value creation
Takes place in project

Interreg Europe brings people together to share innovative and sustainable solutions to regional development challenges.

Interreg Europe organized a joint kick-off meeting for all lead partners in Antwerp, Belgium. ClimateGO also participated in the event. https://blogit.lab.fi/labfocus/en/tackling-vicious-problems-with-climate-smart-governance/ 

ClimateGO started briskly

Vibrant activity has begun in the ClimateGO project. The first meeting with the project partners was already held in March, and the regional stakeholder groups have been formed and they have already started their activities in some of the partner regions. The activity of the regional stakeholder groups will be of major importance to the project. That's why the project will invest in their operation right from the beginning. Read more about the work of the stakeholder group in the Päijät-Häme region here: https://www.labopen.fi/en/lab-pro/boosting-climate-smart-governance-with-stakeholder-cooperation/ 

First Partner Meeting in Lahti, Finland

The ClimateGO project partners convened in summery Lahti on 11–12 June 2024. The meeting provided an opportunity to deepen understanding of the City of Lahti and the Päijät-Häme region, including the region’s climate-smart practices.

A core objective of the project is the exchange of knowledge and best practices among partners. This meeting facilitated meaningful learning and collaboration, reinforcing the project's commitment to shared development and mutual learning. Read more about the meeting here: https://www.interregeurope.eu/climatego/news-and-events/news/creating-common-understanding-about-climate-smart-governance    

Second Partner Meeting in Košice, Slovakia

The second partner meeting of the ClimateGO project took place in Košice, Slovakia, on 11–12 February 2025. During the visit, participants gained valuable insights into the climate-related risks and challenges facing the Košice region, as presented by local stakeholders. The meeting also showcased regional solutions and initiatives aimed at enhancing climate resilience.

In addition, the group was introduced to the operations of KlimaPark Kysak, a local initiative contributing to sustainable development and climate awareness in the region.

https://www.interregeurope.eu/climatego/news-and-events/news/2nd-interregional-meeting-took-place-in-kosice-slovakia 

https://blogit.lab.fi/labfocus/en/proactive-adaptation-to-climate-change-is-important-in-local-regions/ 

Third Partner Meeting in Grenoble, France

The third partner meeting of the ClimateGO project was held in Grenoble, France, on 13–14 February 2025. Grenoble has continued its ambitious climate efforts following its recognition as the European Green Capital in 2022. The city is also successfully implementing the principles of the Doughnut Economy, demonstrating innovative approaches to sustainable urban development.

https://www.interregeurope.eu/climatego/news-and-events/news/grenoble-offered-holistic-vision-for-sustainable-future 

https://blogit.lab.fi/labfocus/en/grenoble-offered-a-holistic-vision-for-a-sustainable-future/ 

Read more about the project: https://www.interregeurope.eu/climatego 

Objectives
As a result of ClimateGO, partners and their stakeholders will be better prepared to create and carry out effective climate policies and adaptation strategies.
Outcomes
The project encompasses a range of activities aimed at advancing climate-smart governance. These include the co-development of policies, assessment of the regional policy landscape, and identification of best practices in climate resilience and adaptation.

Regional and interregional collaboration is fostered through stakeholder meetings, thematic discussions, site visits, and online workshops. Effective practices—both policy-level and practical—will be documented and disseminated to support broader implementation across the European Union.
Sustainable Development Goals
Project managers
Marjut Villanen
RDI specialist
marjut [dot] villanenatlab [dot] fi