LIFE LATESTadapt: development and demonstration of a portfolio of nature-based and smart solutions for improving the climate resilience of cities in Latvia and Estonia

Status: Ongoing projects

In Riga, Terbatas Street, innovative nature-based solutions have been introduced that improve the city’s ability to adapt to climate change. As part of the project, testing of green roofs, green walls, raingardens and other elements is ensured, which helps to reduce urban overheating and improve quality of life for residents.

The Significance of the Project for Riga

Terbatas Street is one of Riga’s most active pedestrian and transport streets, however, it lacks landscaped area and green infrastructure to allow city residents to relax during the hot summer days and the city to adapt to climate change. Urban greenery improves air quality, reduces noise and makes the environment more enjoyable for residents, entrepreneurs and tourists.

Target of the Project

Improve the resilience of the urban climate through nature-based and digital solutions to create a greener and more sustainable urban environment.

Benefits for Residents

✔ A more enjoyable and greener urban environment, bigger landscaping area and shady resting places;
✔ Better air quality and less street pollution;
✔ More efficient management of rainwater, reducing the risk of flooding;
✔ Greater biodiversity and integration of natural elements into the urban environment.

Project Activities

✔ Construction of  green walls, green roofs and raingardens;
✔ Training for municipalities on planning and implementation of green infrastructure;
✔ Use of digital solutions for data processing and environmental analysis;
✔ Development of the Riga Urban Greening Plan;
✔ Exchange of experience with foreign experts and cities of international partners.

Testbed Territory in Riga

Terbatas Street and the area adjacent to it, one of Riga’s most active streets, has been selected as a pilot area to test and demonstrate sustainable urban planning solutions.

Project Results

✔ Nature-based solutions developed and implemented on Terbatas Street in Riga and other partner cities;
✔ Improved urban development planning with new environmental data and digital tools;
✔ Methodological materials and guidelines developed to help other municipalities implement similar solutions;
✔ Increased public engagement and community awareness of urban sustainability.

Funding, Duration, and Partners

Funding source: LIFE Programme “Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation”
Total project budget: EUR 5 144 488
Total budget for Riga:
EU and Ministry of Environmental Protection and Regional Development (VARAM) funding for Riga Municipality: EUR 532 133 (100%)

Implementation Period: 01.09.2022 – 31.08.2027

Project Partners: Lead Partner – Viimsi Municipality (Estonia)
Project Partners: Riga City Municipality, Valmiera Municipality, Cēsis Municipality, Ministry of Environmental Protection and Regional Development of Latvia, Riga Technical University, Institute for Environmental Solutions, Baltic Coasts, as well as partners from Estonia including Tallinn University of Technology, Baltic Environmental Forum-Estonia, and the municipalities of Haapsalu, Rakvere, and Võru

Contact Information

Aija Rantiņa
Riga City Council City Development Department
Phone: +371 29497363
Email: aija.rantina@riga.lv

Project Links

LIFE LATESTadapt