How can we make our urban spaces better equipped to cope with rising temperatures and the growing impacts of climate change?

Green and blue infrastructure offers part of the answer. More trees and shaded areas, sustainable rainwater management, water features, and multifunctional public spaces can help create a cooler, more resilient urban environment while strengthening the connection between people and nature.

On 4 September, SofiaLab brought together experts and representatives of Sofia Municipality, SofiaPlan, academia, civil society and non-governmental organisations to discuss the future of a 1.45-kilometre section of the Slatinska River between Shipchenski Prohod Boulevard and Boyan Magesnik Street.

Held as part of the COOLING HAVENS project, the meeting provided an opportunity to exchange experience and explore good practices from Athens, while considering how nature-based solutions could be adapted to Sofia’s urban context.

A key focus of the discussion was the potential transformation of the Slatinska River corridor into an integral part of Sofia’s Green Ring — a greener, cooler and more attractive urban space that supports recreation, active mobility and sports, while creating new opportunities for urban biodiversity.

Developing spaces like these is an important step towards a more climate-resilient Sofia. It also highlights the value of bringing institutions, experts, civil society and local communities together to shape solutions for the city’s future.

Because climate adaptation is not only about responding to change — it is about creating better, healthier and more resilient places to live.