The Mediterranean region stands as a poignant testament to the far-reaching impacts of climate change. From extreme weather events to rising sea levels and increased pollution, the consequences of global warming are acutely felt. In this climate change hotspot, the interconnection of risks creates a complex web that affects ecosystems, economic activities, and human health. Recognizing the need for a unified and transdisciplinary response, the COST Action “CA22162 – FutureMed” emerges as a beacon of collaboration, aiming to bridge the gap between climate science and its impacts on society. Samira Khodayar (Mediterranean Centre of Environmental Studies (CEAM) is the Action Chair of FutureMed
A COST Action is an interdisciplinary research network that brings researchers and innovators together to investigate a topic of their choice for 4 years. COST Actions are typically made up of researchers from academia, SMEs, public institutions and other relevant organisations or interested parties.
Traditional approaches often tackle isolated risks, missing the opportunity for added value through cooperative efforts. FutureMed seeks to move beyond these siloed methodologies, advocating for integrated approaches that foster effective, science-based decision-making. The Action envisions unprecedented networks of transdisciplinary partnerships, bringing together scientific, human health, social, governance, and risk management perspective
By doing so, FutureMed aims to provide stakeholders and researchers with a more comprehensive understanding, leading to accurate recommendations, strategies, and policies for climate change impacts and risk management.
At the heart of FutureMed’s mission is the recognition that in urban areas, compounding hazards can be more disastrous than single events. The initiative acknowledges the need for a shift towards transdisciplinary efforts that break down barriers between scientific disciplines and engage diverse stakeholders. By facilitating collaboration between scientists, decision makers, and the broader public, FutureMed seeks to create an inclusive platform for tackling the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change.
FutureMed distinguishes itself by serving as a transdisciplinary and integrative platform that connects scientific knowledge on high-impact weather (HIW) events and climate change impacts with stakeholders from priority socio-economic sectors. These sectors include energy supply and demand, agriculture, health, and migration. By coordinating interactions between scientific communities, key stakeholders, and citizens, FutureMed establishes a living lab for climate change impacts awareness, future research priorities, and capacity building.
The Action’s commitment is reflected in its keywords: Mediterranean Climate Change, High-Impact Weather, Impacts, Stakeholders, and Social Learning. Through these keywords, FutureMed outlines a roadmap for collaborative efforts that go beyond conventional boundaries. It highlights the urgency of addressing climate change in the Mediterranean and emphasizes the importance of bringing diverse perspectives to the table.
FutureMed stands as a pioneering initiative that recognizes the complexity of climate change impacts and the necessity for transdisciplinary solutions. By fostering collaboration between scientific communities, stakeholders, and citizens, FutureMed charts a course towards a more resilient and sustainable future for the Mediterranean region. As a living lab for innovation and cooperation, FutureMed offers hope and inspiration for addressing the challenges posed by climate change head-on, with science and society working hand in hand.
Getting involved:
More information are available on the website: https://www.cost.eu/actions/CA22162/
