On April 22, 2026, the city of Chișinău hosted the final conference of the Be Ready project, organized by our partners from Chișinău Town Hall—an important European initiative focused on helping cities adapt to climate change and address the urban heat island effect. The event brought together nearly 80 participants from 14 countries and 20 European cities, creating a dynamic platform for exchanging ideas, experience, and best practices.
As the project’s lead partner, we see our involvement not only as an honor, but as a meaningful step toward shaping more resilient and sustainable urban policies. Be Ready demonstrated that urban transformation is not an abstract ambition, but an achievable goal—when driven by collaboration, a shared vision, and practical solutions.
One of the conference’s central themes was the “urban heat island” effect—a phenomenon in which cities retain more heat than surrounding areas, leading to significant environmental and social challenges. Participants discussed both the need for more accurate measurement and understanding of this issue, and practical responses such as expanding green spaces, using sustainable materials, and improving urban planning, supported by real-world examples.
Ion Ceban highlighted the importance of the project and the city’s commitment to active climate policies, while Ilie Ceban emphasized the value of a pragmatic, step-by-step approach—starting with available resources and building over time. This demonstrates that even cities with limited capacity can achieve tangible progress.
International cooperation emerged as a key driver of sustainable development. The Be Ready project has built a strong network for sharing knowledge, innovation, and practical solutions among participating cities. Yulda Kiylite from the European Union Delegation to Moldova noted that such initiatives are vital not only for technical advancement, but also for fostering collaboration and a shared sense of purpose. Marina Lungu further emphasized their role in accelerating climate adaptation and supporting informed decision-making.
Behind every successful project are people with vision and dedication. Special recognition goes to Sevdalina Voynova, project manager and program director at the Sofia Development Association, whose leadership and professionalism were key to the project’s success.
We also extend our thanks to Nadezhda Bobcheva, Advisor at the Ministry of Energy of Bulgaria, for her active participation and valuable contributions to the expert discussions of the final conference.
Although the Be Ready project is now in its final phase, its impact is only beginning to unfold. The partnerships built, knowledge shared, and solutions developed will continue to support European cities on their path toward a more sustainable future.
The project’s conclusion will be marked in Sofia during the city’s first climate festival, taking place from June 4 to 6, 2026. The event will bring together citizens, experts, and organizations to explore climate innovation, sustainable art, and practical solutions for urban environments.
Be Ready may be formally concluding, but its mission continues—through new partnerships, shared ideas, and concrete actions that shape greener, more resilient, and better-connected cities across Europe.
This project is supported by the Interreg Danube Region Programme co-funded by the European Union.
