BALTFLOODS introduces citizen centered approach to flood preparedness

Project BALTFLOODS is setting a new standard in climate resilience by developing an innovative approach to engage citizens in flood preparedness. The project recognizes the significance of the citizen involvement at its core for effective and sustainable disaster risk management.

As part of its commitment to inclusive planning, project hosted three offline interactive workshops across Finland, Sweden and Norway. The workshop was organized by Colourlab at NTNU, Gjøvik in cooperation with Gjovik municipality, City of Lappeenranta in cooperation with LUT University and Department of Applied IT, University of Gothenburg. These sessions brought together around 50 participants including students, researchers, municipal representatives and public service providers. Although each workshop session utilized distinct methodologies, all three shared the common objective to co-create strategies that actively involve citizens in addressing urban flood preparedness, response and prevention.

“I was aware that floods sometimes affect Lappeenranta, especially during periods of heavy rainfall, but this workshop gave me a clearer understanding of the impact of stormwater and the importance of being proactive in planning. What truly stood out to me was discovering how every citizen’s voice is included in the decision-making process. That level of inclusivity was something I hadn’t encountered before, and it was genuinely eye-opening,” said a student participant from Finland.

The workshops concluded with several key takeaways that will assist in developing a comprehensive citizen engagement strategy. The findings from the workshop will be instrumental in shaping how BALTFLOODS involves and interacts with the community.

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