MedCities, as an associated partner, took part in the latest Steering Committee of the Cool Noons project.

The Cool Noons project, part of the Interreg Euro-MED Programme, focuses on helping Mediterranean destinations rethink their tourism and public space strategies to better accommodate residents and visitors during peak heat hours. With climate change intensifying summer temperatures, especially in coastal areas, the initiative promotes cooling interventions that align with sustainable and inclusive urban planning.

During the Lisbon meeting, project and associated partners reviewed the progress of pilot actions, discussed governance and financial strategies, and evaluated knowledge transfer mechanisms. MedCities’ participation enabled to emphasise knowledge-sharing and dissemination, which is the key role of associated partners in this framework.

Among the implementing partners of the project, Dubrovnik and Marseille which are also MedCities members, are active contributors to the project’s pilot activities, in addition to Imola, Budva, and Lisboa.

Dubrovnik is exploring ways to integrate thermal comfort into its tourism offer by identifying shaded urban routes and incorporating natural and cultural assets along “cool paths”. The city also developed an app for the maritime museum to promote it to visitors, especially during the hottest hours of the day. These initiatives aim to preserve visitor satisfaction while reducing environmental strain.

Marseille is similarly working to reduce the urban heat island effect while ensuring equitable access to cool public spaces. The city’s engagement highlights its broader commitment to creating a more liveable and environmentally just urban environment, in line with Cool Noons’ objectives. Cool paths have been implemented there too, coupled with solutions that are based on shade, vegetation, water and behaviours.

MedCities supports the project in disseminating project outcomes and promoting the replication of successful interventions across its network. Through its involvement in the Steering Committee, it will be able to strengthen synergies among Mediterranean cities and initiatives.

As rising temperatures continue to challenge urban life and economic activity, initiatives like Cool Noons are essential to shaping a more adaptive and inclusive Mediterranean region.

The event took place in Lisbon on 31 March and 1 April 2025.