The Interreg Euro-Med Heatsafe project held its first meeting with the governance structure that has been created to improve coordination in response to heatwaves in Cartagena. The Federation of Municipalities and Erovértice, together with technicians from Cartagena City Council, held a meeting with social entities, educational centres and third sector organisations at the Social Services facilities.
During the session, the project’s objectives were presented, focusing on improving the city’s response to episodes of extreme heat, with special attention to the most vulnerable groups. Through participatory dynamics, groups with greater exposure and less capacity to adapt were identified, such as children and adolescents, the elderly, the homeless, outdoor workers and people with intellectual disabilities.
The participating entities shared the resources and measures that are already being implemented, such as information campaigns, adaptation of shaded areas and water points, use of air-conditioned facilities and reinforcement of social and health coordination.
Areas for improvement were also identified, particularly the need for common protocols and more agile and unified communication between administrations. The conference concluded with the presentation of next steps to advance the development of local strategies that strengthen the protection of the population against rising temperatures.
