Focus Group Workshops on Innovation Pathways at the Water-Climate-Heritage Nexus

Focus Group Workshops on Innovation Pathways at the Water–Climate–Heritage Nexus

Innovation Pathways towards enhancing dissemination, exploitation and uptake of R&I results

The SD-WISHEES project is hosting two focus group workshops that explore innovation pathways to strengthen the protection and sustainable management of cultural heritage in the face of hydroclimatic extreme events.

By bringing together experts, practitioners, and stakeholders from research, policy, and heritage management, these workshops aim to foster the dissemination, uptake, and practical application of research and innovation results.

The events are organised by the CMCC Foundation, with the collaboration and support of SD-WISHEES partners and key organisations, including EWA, WEG, PRIMA, ISPRA, CNR, and AAS.

Their joint involvement reflects the project’s commitment to integrating diverse perspectives across the water–climate–heritage nexus.

Workshop 1 – Malta | 23 January 2026

The first workshop, taking place in Malta on 23 January 2026, will focus on water and agricultural heritage landscapes.

Rural and agricultural heritage areas are central to cultural identity and sustainable resource management, yet they face increasing pressure from climate variability and extreme events.

This workshop will explore innovation pathways that promote sustainable water management, climate-resilient agriculture, and participatory governance in Mediterranean contexts.

Workshop 2 – Lecce, Italy | 30 January 2026

The second workshop, held in Lecce, Italy on 30 January 2026, will concentrate on urban heritage resilience.

Cities across Europe, the Balkans, and Africa are increasingly vulnerable to floods, droughts, and storms, posing growing threats to historic urban areas.

The workshop will explore how research and innovation can support cities in safeguarding cultural heritage through integrated governance, innovative tools, and cross-sector collaboration.

Expected Outcomes

Participants in these workshops will discuss the enablers and barriers that affect the uptake and scaling of research and innovation results, share experiences, and collectively explore strategies to strengthen the resilience of heritage landscapes.

A key outcome of the workshops will be the co-development of a preliminary set of recommendations for research-funding organisations, research institutions, policymakers, and practitioners to enhance the practical impact of R&I.

Both workshops aim to advance understanding of how innovation pathways can move research from ideas to practical solutions that protect cultural heritage.

Through collaborative discussions, knowledge exchange, and joint development of actionable recommendations, SD-WISHEES seeks to support a more inclusive and effective innovation ecosystem at the water–climate–heritage nexus.