EGU 2026 – Data-driven prioritization of climate adaptation measures in municipalities

At this year’s European Geosciences Union (EGU) General Assembly from May 3–8, 2026 in Vienna, approximately 20,000 scientists gathered to learn about and discuss a wide range of topics, from Earth systems and increasing natural hazards to climate adaptation measures. In this context, the FiW presented results from the BMFTR-funded R2K-Klim+ project and introduced the methodology developed for GIS-based decision support to prioritize climate adaptation measures for municipalities. We were pleased to actively participate in the event and contribute our work to the professional exchange.

In a presentation titled “From climate data to municipal decisions: a GIS-based decision support system for prioritizing urban adaptation measures,” Dr. Mark Braun introduced the integrated assessment methodology behind the web-based decision support system KLAUS (KLimaAnpassung Urbaner Systeme) developed by the R2K-Klim+ research project. The focus was on the question of how municipalities can systematically evaluate and prioritize climate adaptation measures.

As part of R2K-Klim+, a practical tool was developed in collaboration with the City of Duisburg that consolidates climate-relevant information in an interactive map application, thereby enabling a transparent and cross-sectoral assessment of climate risks. The goal is to support municipal stakeholders in prioritizing adaptation measures in a targeted manner despite limited human and financial resources.

The presentation covered both the methodological foundations and concrete application examples from Duisburg. These include, among other things, the identification of suitable locations for new drinking water wells, taking into account climate-related stresses and vulnerable population groups; the spatial identification of deficit areas for targeted support measures; and the use of heavy rainfall simulations to support urban drainage.

Using examples from the web application, the presentation demonstrated how scientific analyses can be translated into clear and practical decision-making tools for municipal climate adaptation.

In addition to the technical discussions following the presentation, EGU26 also provided an opportunity to gain insights into current research on climate change and climate adaptation, as well as to establish new contacts within the international scientific community. We would like to express our gratitude for the opportunity to present our work at EGU26 and are already looking forward to participating next year.