How do we make cities more sustainable and livable? Sofia shared its experience and inspiration on this topic with representatives from Chișinău (Moldova) and Galați (Romania), who visited us on a peer exchange within the Be Ready project under the Interreg Danube Program, co-funded by the EU.
As hosts, the Bureau for Integration and Social Innovation and the Sofia Development Association had the opportunity to present our pilot climate initiative, which is transforming a small piece of the urban environment.
We transformed a neglected municipal yard near Lions’ Bridge – one of the areas most affected by the urban heat island effect – into a climate shelter. This new green public space features shaded structures, water elements, and inviting areas for relaxation, encouraging visitors to linger. But it is more than just aesthetics – it is a place created with climate adaptation in mind and with the active participation of the local community.
Young artists from the Vuzel studio contributed to shaping the shelter by creating visual installations inspired by climate themes. Their works make the space not only visually attractive but also meaningful – telling stories, inspiring, and engaging visitors.
Moreover, volunteers and partner organizations played an important role in bringing the project to life. Together, we sent a clear message: sustainable change starts from the bottom up – through participation, cooperation, and shared care.
The peer visit brought together key actors from local government, business, and NGOs. The guests from Chișinău and Galați held discussions with:
- Ekaterina Yordanova – Chair of the Board of Sofia Development Association
- Sevdalina Petrova – Deputy Chair of Sofia Municipal Council
- Tsvetelina Zarkin – Member of the European Committee of the Regions
- Momchil Daskalov – Mayor of Serdika District
- Dilyana Stoyanova – Deputy Mayor of Serdika District
Representatives of BCause Foundation, Cleantech Bulgaria, Green Sofia, JTI, and volunteers also took part. Together, we showed that when business, institutions, and communities join forces, truly sustainable solutions emerge.
Climate adaptation cannot wait. We need innovation, collaboration, and readiness to rethink how we use urban spaces. The new climate shelter is an example of what Sofia can look and feel like in the future – green, sustainable, and co-created with its citizens.
