The Association of South-Western Municipalities (ASWM) has joined an international consortium working to address the growing challenge of extreme heat in the Mediterranean region. The initiative, known as HEATSAFE – Holistic Environmental and Social Adaptation Framework for Extreme Heat, officially launched with a coordination meeting hosted by the Federation of Municipalities of the Region of Murcia (FMRM) in Spain.

The project brings together nine partners from across the Mediterranean – including organizations from Spain, Greece, Bulgaria, Albania, and Italy – and is funded by the EU’s Interreg Euro-MED 2021–2027 Programme. With a duration of 33 months, HEATSAFE aims to enhance local capacity to prevent, mitigate, and manage the impacts of rising temperatures and frequent heat waves through innovation, cooperation, and knowledge sharing.

A Shared Mission for Climate Adaptation

Led by the Federation of Municipalities of the Region of Murcia, the HEATSAFE partnership includes the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona, Municipality of Agii Anargyri-Kamatero and the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (Greece), the Regional Council of Durrës (Albania), the Municipality of Arezzo and the Tuscany Region (Italy), and the Association of South-Western Municipalities (ASWM) representing Bulgaria as Project Partner 5, alongside the Municipality and Regional Administration of Blagoevgrad as associated partners.

During the kickoff meeting in Murcia, representatives from all partner organizations set the foundations for collaboration, defined the initial work plan, and exchanged experiences on how Mediterranean regions are already adapting to the effects of climate change.

Learning from Local Good Practices

As part of the visit, the ASWM team and other project partners explored several climate shelters established by the Municipality of Murcia – public spaces equipped to offer relief during periods of extreme heat. The initiative was presented by Ms. Mercedes Bernabé, Deputy Mayor of Murcia and Councillor for Open Government, Economic Promotion and Employment, and Ms. Pilar Torres, Councillor for Social Welfare, Family and Health.

Ms. Bernabé noted that “these climate zones in Murcia are a clear example of how local authorities can offer real solutions during extreme heat waves. Sharing this experience with representatives of other European municipalities allows us to continue developing cooperation and exchanging best practices in environmental management and citizen protection.”

Ms. Torres emphasized that “protecting the most vulnerable people during heat waves is a priority for the City Council. These shelters provide a safe environment where elderly citizens, families, and people with health conditions can seek refuge during periods of highest risk.”

Murcia currently operates nearly 100 climate-safe spaces, including cultural centers, study halls, libraries, markets, and museums, all strategically located and open during the hottest hours of the day.

Pilot Actions and Expected Results:

HEATSAFE will combine scientific research, local policy, and community action to improve resilience to extreme heat. Each partner region will develop local action plans and implement pilot projects to test practical solutions, such as:

• Creating and reinforcing climate shelters as safe community spaces;
• Introducing temporary shading systems, fountains, and sprinkling mechanisms in public areas;
• Building solidarity networks to increase monitoring of vulnerable populations;
• Conducting public awareness and education campaigns on the health risks of extreme heat and ways to stay safe.
• In the Region of Murcia, the city of Cartagena will serve as a pilot area for these activities.

ASWM’s Role and Next Steps: 

As Partner 5, ASWM will lead activities related to the development of a local action plan for the Blagoevgrad region, focusing on strengthening local governance and community preparedness for extreme heat. Through its participation, ASWM aims to adapt successful Mediterranean practices to Bulgarian municipalities, ensuring better protection for vulnerable groups and contributing to regional climate resilience.

By fostering cooperation between municipalities, research institutions, and local governments, HEATSAFE seeks to build a sustainable, inclusive approach to climate adaptation and safeguard communities across the Euro-Mediterranean area from the growing risks of extreme heat.