Rafelguaraf hosted the conference “La Ribera and Europe in Climate Action: Funds that Transform Territories”. This initiative was organised by the Consorci de la Ribera, comprising the Ribera Alta and Ribera Baixa associations of municipalities, through PATER – the Territorial Pact for Employment in La Ribera. The event forms part of the 30th anniversary celebrations of the Mancomunitat de la Ribera Alta.
The event took place at the town’s youth centre and brought together experts, institutional representatives and local stakeholders to reflect on the major climate challenges and opportunities for European funding. The conference was opened by Toni Barea, president of the Consorci de la Ribera, and Rafaela Aliaga, mayor of Rafelguaraf.
“Today’s conference is a space for listening, learning and connecting. We are talking about European funding, but above all we are talking about people, the region and the future. About how we can better prepare our municipalities and turn difficulties into opportunities for transformation. At the Consorci de la Ribera, we will continue to champion cooperation between administrations, organisations and citizens, because only by working together can we confidently face the challenges of the future,” said Toni Barea.
The event aimed to examine how European funds contribute to climate change mitigation, strengthening regional resilience and improving disaster preparedness in the Ribera del Xúquer region. The opening address highlighted Europe’s role in the climate transition and the importance of cooperation between public authorities.
The opening conference addressed the key role of European funds in achieving the climate targets set for 2030 and 2050, as well as the main challenges for the future. In addition, a technical overview was provided of the policies and instruments available to move towards a more sustainable and resilient economy.
The programme included several round-table discussions that provided insights into European experiences and projects already transforming the region, with initiatives focused on citizen participation, climate risk management and cooperation between municipalities. Strategies for adapting to disasters were also discussed, with particular attention to resilient urban planning, flood management and the importance of applied environmental research.
The event also addressed courses of action linked to European climate adaptation initiatives, sustainable energy action plans, municipal energy sovereignty projects and international cooperation programmes, highlighting the role of local authorities as key players in the fight against climate change.
With this event, the Consorci de la Ribera reinforces its commitment to sustainability and regional innovation, promoting spaces for meeting and knowledge exchange that contribute to building a Ribera that is better prepared, more resilient and aligned with European climate objectives.
