Information on national adaptation actions reported under the Governance Regulation

Slovakia lies between 47° and 50° north latitude and 16° and 23° east longitude. The surface of Slovakia is mainly characterised by its mountainous nature, with the Carpathian Mountains covering most of the northern half of the country. These mountain ranges include the high peaks of the Fatra-Tatra region (including the Tatras, Velká Fatra and Mala Fatra), the Slovak Ore Mountains, the Slovak Central Mountains or the Beskydy Mountains. The largest lowland is the Danube Lowland in the south-west and the East Slovak Lowland in the south-east.

The population exceeds 5.4 million. The average population density is 110 inhabitants/km2. The majority of inhabitants are Slovaks (83.8 %). The largest national minority is made up of Hungarians (7.8 %). Other ethnic groups include Roma (1.2 %), Czechs (0.5 %), Rusyns (0.4 %) and other or unspecified minorities (6.3 %). In 2021, the average age of the Slovak population was 38.7 years.

Source: https://www.scitanie.sk/en

The Slovak economy is a developed and high-income economy, with GDP per capita equal to 69 % of the EU average in 2021. It ranges from 188 % of the EU average in Bratislava to 54 % in eastern Slovakia. Although regional income inequality is high, up to 90 % of citizens own their own home. In 2021, according to the International Monetary Fund, Slovakia was the 46th richest country in the world (out of 187 countries) with a GDP per capita in purchasing power parity of USD 31 866. Slovakia has successfully transformed from a centrally planned economy to a market-oriented economy. Extensive privatisation has been completed, the banking sector is almost entirely in the hands of private companies, and foreign investment has increased. In 2022, more than 80 % of exports went to the EU and more than 63 % of imports came from other EU Member States. The government debt-to-GDP ratio reached 62.2 % at the end of 2021, well below the OECD average. Unemployment fell to 5.9 % in 2022, the lowest recorded rate in Slovakia's history.

Source: https://datacube.statistics.sk/#!/lang/en
https://www.imf.org/en/Countries/SVK

The Slovak Hydrometeorological Institute (SHMÚ) is a state-funded organisation that provides meteorological and hydrological services at national and international level. Under Act No. 201/2009 Coll. on the State Hydrological Service and the State Meteorological Service, a State Hydrological Network and a State Meteorological Network have been established. These networks are managed by the SHMÚ. They are used for systematic monitoring of quantitative and qualitative parameters of air and water. Data from monitoring activities are stored in databases and used in research dealing with climate change impacts, vulnerability assessment and adaptation measures. National meteorological network consists of 973 monitoring facilities and National Hydrological network consists of 2243 facilities.

National meteorological network

Monitoring subsystems Number of facilities
surface synoptic stations 20
surface military synoptic stations 3
surface meteorological stations with climatological measurement (manual) 6
surface automatic meteorological stations (with observer) 57
surface automatic meteorological stations (without observer) 100
surface rain gauge stations (manual) 343
surface automatic rain gauge stations (with observer) 164
surface automatic rain gauge stations (without observer) 31
surface rain gauge measurements – totalizer (manual) 43
surface rain gauge measurements – totalizer (automatic) 2
a network of meteorological radars 4
a network of solar radiation and ozone measurements 7
reception and processing of meteorological satellites
phenological stations 193

National hydrological network

Monitoring subsystems Number of facilities
surface water quantity 416
surface water quality 244
groundwater quantity 360 springs, 1147 wells
groundwater quality 76

Integrated drought monitoring system

The issue of drought monitoring is provided by organizations under the Ministry of Environment (MoE) of the Slovak Republic. Forestry organisations under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) of the Slovak Republic shall cooperate in the implementation of monitoring on forest land that they manage or on which they are forest managers. The cooperation of the employees of the State enterprise Forests of the Slovak Republic with SHMÚ within the "Intersucho" project is crucial. The National Forestry Centre (NLC) implemented in the period 2019 – 2021 the research project "Research and Development to Support the Competitiveness of Slovak Forestry (SLOV-LES)" (sub-project "Ecological Limits of Biomass Production in the Conditions of Climate Change") from the budget of the chapter of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of the Slovak Republic (MoARD SR), the output of which was e.g. a new online web-platform of forestry meteorological monitoring http://www.forestweather.sk/, or framework recommendations for selected risks related to climate change.

The system consists of meteorological, soil and hydrological drought subsystems. In the area of soil drought, cooperation with Czech partners is ongoing, specifically in the area of soil water regime modelling. The results of drought occurrence, intensity and drought regime are presented weekly on the SHMÚ website.

Projections and scenarios

Since 1993, climate change scenarios have been prepared for the Slovak Republic in the form of modified outputs from several Global General Circulation Models (GCMs) and Regional Circulation Models (RCMs). The method of statistical and dynamic "downscaling" was used with data from the Slovak meteorological network for the time period 1951-2010. All GCMs and RCMs offer multi-variable outputs with daily frequency for the period 1951 to 2100. The last series of climate change scenarios is mainly based on outputs from four models: GCM CGCM3.1 (Canada) and ECHAM5 (Germany), RCM RACMO (Netherlands – KNMI) and REMO (Germany – MPI). These models were used to develop climate change scenarios for the Slovak Republic. Based on the outputs and measured meteorological data for the reference periods 1961-1990 and 1981-2010, daily scenarios for about 60 meteorological and about 150 precipitation gauge stations were proposed. Scenarios were developed for the following variables: daily averages, maxima and minima of air temperature, daily averages of relative humidity, daily averages of precipitation, averages of wind speed, and sums of global radiation. Based on these baseline scenarios, several additional scenarios for snow cover, evapotranspiration, heat waves, soil moisture, runoff, etc. were proposed. In this approach, correlation/regression and simple modelling methods were used to develop scenarios for other climatic/hydrological elements.

In general, the models predict a temperature increase across our territory comparable to similar estimates for the Central European region. Rainfall estimates expect a small increase in the north and a decrease in the south. The outcome of future temperature and precipitation conditions would result in higher potential evapotranspiration and thus increased droughts.

New and more detailed climate change scenarios based on global (GCM) and regional (RCM) models have enabled the calculation of a series of statistical characteristics, such as complex environmental and socio-economic scenarios, as a function of a changing climate: number of summer days, tropical days, super tropical days, heat waves, ice days, freezing days, days with heavy rain, days with low or no precipitation, days with snowfall, days suitable for specific tourist activities such as skiing, swimming, summer and winter tourism, etc..

The analysis of climate change scenarios confirms the existence of extremes and risks, their interdependence and potential impacts across the whole range from ecosystems and natural resources to the economy and the social sphere. The linkages and interactions between the effects of climate change and its potential consequences form a highly complex and dynamic system.

Projections of GHG and pollutant emissions are set up to 2050 in 5-year intervals. They are used to determine projected trends in the emissions area for the correct setting of policies and measures. Emissions projections are modelled under two scenarios – the Existing Measures Scenario (WEM) and the WAM version (with additional measures). The projected GHG emissions trend to 2050 in the WEM scenario after 2020 is only slightly decreasing and the emission reductions under this scenario are insufficient. Further measures will be needed in individual sectors, which are included in the WAM scenario. The Greenhouse Gas Projections Report is available at https://oeab.shmu.sk/[…]/cmsSiteBoxAttachment.php?ID=8&cmsDataID=0.

Climatological and Meteorological Information System (KMIS)

KMIS is an electronic database that contains 21 core data domains describing the physical state of the environment from the topsoil to the stratosphere. The database contains measurements of ground station networks with automatic or manual measurement mode, as well as the results of remote monitoring system measurements and observations (measurements in the upper air).

KMIS stores measured elements (temperature, wind) or subjectively determined elements and characteristics of the physical state of the environment (cloud cover, phenological phases). The frequency of data storage ranges from 5 minutes (automatic weather stations) to 1 year (phenological stations).

KMIS provides batch and operational access to data describing the current state of the atmosphere as well as the current state of the climate system. For this purpose, a special set of application programs has been developed that provide data in tabular, graphical and map form.

Summary Water Register (SEoV)

The Summary Water Register contains registers of data in the surface water and groundwater objects of the State Hydrological Network, as well as registers of data on the use of surface water and groundwater and on water quality.

The observed elements (for surface water quantity: water status, water temperature, water turbidity – the content of algae in the water and water flow, quantified from the measured water status) are stored in the database once a year. Water levels, flow rates and water temperature are stored in hourly and daily increments, float levels in daily increments. The observed elements for groundwater quantity (spring yield, spring and probe water temperature, groundwater level) are stored in the database in daily and weekly increments once a year.

Integrated drought monitoring system

This system consists of meteorological, soil and hydrological drought subsystems and groundwater and occurrence of drought subsystem.
- Meteorological drought

This subsystem is based on precipitation deficit (SPI index) and water deficit (SPEI index, Palmer's CMI). Results from around 40 weather stations are used in weekly increments, with monitoring taking place all year round. Both indices have a 30-day cumulative period. This means that the index expressed for a given day determines the deviation of the precipitation or water balance of that day and the previous 29 days, applying a so-called "sliding window" to the entire length of the data series.

The CMI calculation uses, as in the SPEI, the soil water balance, i.e. the rainfall-potential evapotranspiration difference, which is calculated according to the Thornthwaite method. This index also determines the runoff and inflow calculated over the last week, as well as the soil moisture value at the end of the penultimate week. The resulting deficit, or soil moisture surplus, is then converted from the calculated quantities into a simple dimensionless numerical value that represents a measure of the intensity of drought at a given location.
- Hydrological drought

The Drought Monitoring/Hydrological Drought website (https://www.shmu.sk/sk/? page=1&id=hydro_sucho) is used to assess the current hydrological situation at selected surface water gauging stations, particularly in terms of hydrological drought. The page provides an instant overview of the hydrological situation at selected gauging stations in relation to long-term values, with sub-normal conditions highlighted. Current flow values are compared with long-term hydrological characteristics (average monthly flows, M-daily flows) for the currently valid reference period 1961-2000, so that the current values can be assessed for their deviation from the long-term values. The current hydrological situation is displayed in simple map and graphical views and provides a visualisation of the situation in the whole territory of the Slovak Republic as well as a display of regional differences with the possibility of a detailed view of the course and assessment of flows at specific gauging stations. Strong colours – red, orange, yellow – indicate the occurrence of an unfavourable hydrological condition for a given period (months).
- Groundwater and occurrence of drought

The current groundwater table with a focus on drought assessment is displayed on a map on the SHMÚ website (https://www.shmu.sk/sk/?page=1&id=pzv_kvantita). The assessment is based on operational online data of selected 111 groundwater objects of the state hydrological monitoring network, which consists of 79 probes and 32 springs. Groundwater level and spring discharge values recorded once a day are compared to the average monthly quantiles (Q10, Q40, Q60, Q90) determined for the 1981-2010 reference period. These individual quantiles are distinguished in the map by a colour scale. For the evaluation for the annual reports, the number of objects evaluated online is increased by 30 objects with control measurements in the field. This treatment is based on average monthly values, which are compared with the aforementioned long-term values of the reference period 1981-2010.
- Soil drought

An integrated soil drought monitoring system is involved – the so-called "Interdrought" mechanism. Soil moisture parameters are calculated using the proven water balance model "SoilClim". The daily meteorological data are interpolated to a 500 m grid, taking into account the parameters of the vegetation cover (or land use) taking into account the current degree of development, slope level, exposure and basic physical properties of the soil. The current soil moisture status estimated by the model is compared with the 50-year long-term average (1961-2010) soil moisture determined for each day in a time window of ±10 days, with values expressed by a simple 7-point colour scale of drought severity. The final product is a drought intensity map, which for each grid is determined by comparing the current soil moisture content value on a given day with the distribution of soil moisture values achieved in the period 1961-2010 over a time span of ± 10 days from the date under consideration. The value obtained then expresses the probability of recurrence of a given soil moisture content on a given day and is used to assign the corresponding drought intensity (S0 – S5) according to the aforementioned scale. The results of the drought monitoring are complemented by an independent analysis of the impacts of drought on vegetation thanks to the confrontation of current and archival satellite images of vegetation status obtained by the Aqua and Terra satellites – MODIS system and processed in cooperation with Mendel University, CzechGlobe and the Geogra?c Institute of Masaryk University. Impacts on vegetation are treated only during the growing season. Information is not available in winter.
- Agriculture

A number of projects are underway to model the impacts of climate change on agriculture. The project "Managing farmland management for sustainability" aimed, based on detailed knowledge of soil properties and landscape analysis, to design models for deficiency-free management of soil organic matter at farm level under the current conditions of a changing climate.

Another project is "Data and knowledge support for decision-making and strategic planning systems for adaptation of agricultural landscapes to climate change and minimisation of degradation of agricultural soils", whose main activities are modelling of climate change impacts on soils, production of spatially differentiated information on soils in agrarian landscapes and design of adaptation measures to prevent negative impacts due to climate change in agriculture.

Monitoring changes in bee grazing due to changes in natural resources caused by climate change is a project to monitor the progress of new bee pests from southern European locations, as well as the spread of viral diseases. Once sufficient relevant data has been collected, model studies of the process of incoming change will be developed.
- Forestry sector

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is responsible for the implementation of the greenhouse gas inventory in the LULUCF sector (Land Use, Land Use Change and Forestry sector). In the context of the Fit for 55 tasks, the model algorithms for calculating sink projections and CO2 emissions based on the results of the validation of the carbon balance models are continuously being improved. A new geo-referenced GHG inventory system with more precise spatial localisation is also being developed to fully comply with the requirements of Regulation (EU) 2018/841 of the European Parliament and of the Council. The modification of the model for the calculations of carbon sink projections is carried out based on the results of the validation of several carbon balance models, according to the requirements of Regulation (EC) No 2018/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council of the European Union (EP and the Council of the European Union). These activities better link forest management information with the assessment of mitigation options in the forestry sector.

In urban areas, climate change is expected to increase risks to people, the economy and ecosystems, including risks from heat stress, storms and extreme precipitation, floods, landslides, air pollution, drought, water scarcity, etc. In rural areas, significant impacts on water availability and supply, food security, infrastructure and agricultural incomes are expected. The impacts of climate change are expected to exacerbate existing poverty and create new poverty traps, especially in urban areas.

Climate change in Slovakia is likely to significantly affect the following environmental, economic and social pressures:
    Environmental pressures: regional and local impacts on water availability, deterioration of water quality, drought, deterioration of soil properties, reduction of soil organic carbon, soil salinization, increased water and wind erosion, alteration of ecosystem functioning and provision of ecosystem services, degradation of forest ecosystems, fragmentation of habitats, spread of non-native and invasive species, loss of biodiversity, alteration of landscape pattern, floods, windstorms, wildfires, landslides.
    Economic pressures: reduction in soil fertility and agricultural production, shift of agricultural production areas to more northern areas, changes in agro-climatic production potential, changes in crop mix, reduction in forest production, changes in forest species composition, emergence of pests, diseases and weeds, threats to drinking water sources and supply, irrigation problems, increasing vulnerability of residential and rural environments, need to reduce the energy intensity of buildings, deterioration in transport safety and fluidity, increased energy consumption, threats to the continuity of industrial operations, major industrial accidents, unstable supplies of supplies, raw materials and electricity, increased risk of breakdowns and material damage in energy and industry, the need to deal with emergencies and natural disasters, threats to human health and safety, threats to food security, changes in prices, increased demands for innovation and renewable energy, changes in the length and quality of the tourist season, threats to tourism potential, threats to competitiveness.
        Social pressures: threats to the health of the population (change in the spread of infectious diseases, emergence of new pathogens, worsening of allergic conditions), deterioration in the quality of life, unemployment, migration.

The Ministry of Environment is working on a draft law on climate change and low-carbon transformation of the Slovak Republic. The draft law reflects the EU climate goals, the binding nature of climate plans, the obligation to develop strategies and action plans at the regional and local level, and the way adaptation strategies, implementation plans and other adaptation documents are developed at the national level.

The Ministry of Environment of the Slovak Republic in cooperation with SAŽP is implementing a project to create a wider range of methodological guidelines for better implementation of adaptation and mitigation measures. It is a set of 10 methodological guidelines mainly in the areas of planning, data collection and evaluation, risk and vulnerability assessment.

Climate-related vulnerability and risk assessment is the subject of Act No. 24/2006 Coll. on EIA/SEA. Climate vulnerability (impact) has been addressed therein since its amendment No. 142/2017 Coll.

The expected impacts of the proposed activity on the environment, including health, and an estimate of their significance (expected impacts direct, indirect, secondary, cumulative, synergistic, short-term, temporary, long-term and permanent, caused during construction and implementation), including impacts on climatic conditions and the vulnerability of the proposed activity to climate change, shall be assessed.

Planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation and revision of adaptation policy at national level are generally the tasks of the Government of the Slovak Republic and the responsible ministries.

Ensuring the implementation of the NAS, as well as monitoring the progress in the implementation of adaptation measures and reviewing the NAS is, in accordance with Government Resolution No. 478/2018 Coll., the task of the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of the Environment in cooperation with other relevant ministries. The resolution recommends that entities at the regional level, such as self-governing regions, the Association of Towns and Municipalities of Slovakia and the Union of Slovak Cities, should also participate in the implementation of the NAS objectives.

The main responsibility for the implementation, monitoring and reporting of the NAS and the NAP lies with the Ministry of Environment, which has a coordinating function within the inter-ministerial and cross-cutting tasks. Operational coordination of implementation is carried out through the Adaptation Working Group, whose members are nominated representatives of individual ministries and other central government bodies, organisations, academia, NGOs or other interested groups.

Following the approval of the NAP, a joint coordination, monitoring and evaluation mechanism was prepared as an operational document of the Adaptation Working Group to coordinate the group's work on an ongoing basis.

The Adaptation Working Group is also regularly informed of the NAP performance indicators monitored and contributes to the preparation of the next NAS and NAP.

The Council of the Government of the Slovak Republic for the European Green Deal is also adequately involved in inter-ministerial coordination. Cross-ministerial coordination is moving towards integrating climate change into sectoral policies.

Incorporating climate change impacts and resilience into environmental impact assessment procedures is an ongoing task and climate change impacts should be more fully reflected in legislation. Act No. 24/2006 Coll. on EIA/SEA and its amendment No. 142/2017 Coll. dealt with mandatory integration.

Improving the climate resilience of infrastructure will also be supported by a methodology for assessing the climate vulnerability and climate resilience of new investments and projects and incorporating it into the EIA/SEA process, which is being prepared by the Ministry of Environment in cooperation with SAŽP as part of the Methodology for the Assessment of Investment Risks Associated with the Adverse Impacts of Climate Change project. The methodology aims to provide more comprehensive information on whether a proposed activity or strategy document will be significantly affected by the adverse impacts of climate change (the so-called adaptation perspective).

Incorporating climate change impacts and adaptation planning into disaster risk management frameworks and vice versa in the Slovak Republic is one of the new challenges. The Ministry of the Interior of the Slovak Republic is working on disaster risk management tasks at both national (adoption of a strategy, action plan and disaster risk assessment) and international level – reporting to the EC. Resolution of the Government of the Slovak Republic No. 65/2022 approved the National Strategy for Security Threat Risk Management of the Slovak Republic, which aims to strengthen the effective management of security risks, which is directly related to the increase of resilience and strengthening of the security system of the state.

Institutional arrangements and management of the collection, ownership, reuse and access to relevant data shall be carried out in accordance with laws, government resolutions and adopted action plans.The collection, ownership and sharing of data is based on the respective reports.The reports are public.The Ministry of Environment of the Slovak Republic in cooperation with SAŽP within the framework of the project Methodology for the assessment of investment risks associated with the adverse effects of climate change, prepares comprehensive methodological procedures,on the basis of which it will be possible to build a comprehensive mechanism for the collection, evaluation, processing and disclosure of information in the field of adaptation.

• Promote climate change adaptation as a strategic priority, integrate climate change adaptation into the policy and legal framework and strengthen the theme of adaptation in plans and programmes.
• Strengthen the implementation of adaptation policies and legislation
• Build and develop an effective and functioning climate change adaptation system, based on the principle of subsidiarity and the joint efforts of stakeholders and the public.
• Develop the knowledge base, data collection, monitoring and research associated with the dissemination of data and information.
• Promote climate change education and solutions throughout the education process
• Promote and develop a multi-source financing system for climate change adaptation.

Ref:NAP

The main barriers to successful adaptation are, funding sources and poor information. Both the Slovakia Programme and the Recovery and Resilience Plan provide us with a framework within which we can implement a spectrum of adaptation measures, but the priority focus is on landscape planning reform and the reform of nature conservation and water management in the countryside

Proper and efficient financing of adaptation measures and tasks is a prerequisite for their implementation and will be guided by the principle of multi-source financing. The key will be the use of the resources of the state budget, municipalities in combination with allocated resources from EU funds, CAP measures and the aforementioned Recovery and Resilience Plan, including their national co-financing.

Achievement of the main objective of adaptation of the NAS and NAP should contribute to the fulfilment of the sub-objectives, which are: ensuring active development of national adaptation policy, implementation of adaptation measures and monitoring of their effectiveness, strengthening the reflection of the objectives and recommendations of the NAS in the framework of multilevel governance and business support, raising public awareness of climate change issues, promoting synergies between adaptation and mitigation measures and the use of the ecosystem approach in the implementation of adaptation measures, and promoting the reflection of the objectives and recommendations of the 2030 Agenda, the Convention and the PA. In these activities, however, we must also not forget the open discussion of all possible solutions and the importance of raising public awareness on the subject. Also, the implementation of the individual NAP targets by 2027 and subsequently the new NAS can contribute substantially to increasing adaptive capacity and reducing climate vulnerability to the adverse impacts of climate change.

Greener Slovakia – ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY STRATEGY OF SLOVAK REPUBLIC UNTIL 2030 (Envirostrategy 2030) and its Implementation Plan

The document was approved by the Government of the Slovak Republic in February 2019. It defined the vision of a healthy environment and a sustainable economy in the Slovak Republic. Moving towards this vision is set through objectives, sub-objectives and framework actions Implementation Plan for Envirostrategy 2030

Implementation Plan for Envirostrategy 2030 was adopted, defining more detailed steps and indicators for assessing the implementation of the measures.

In the framework of the adopted resolution on the Implementation Plan, the task was defined to allocate adequate financial resources for the implementation of the measures of the Envirostrategy 2030 within the available resources of the chapter of the Ministry of the Environment of the Slovak Republic, according to the possibilities.

An update of the Envirostrategy is expected by the end of 2025.

Climate Change Adaptation Strategy of the Slovak Republic – Update 2018 (NAS)

The revised NAS was approved by the Government in October 2018. The aim of the NAS is to meet the requirements of the Paris Agreement, to improve the readiness of the Slovak Republic to adequately address the adverse impacts of climate change, to provide information on ongoing and future adaptation processes, to create an institutional framework and coordination mechanism for the implementation of adaptation measures at all levels and priority sectors, and to raise awareness of adaptation to climate change.

The NAS defines six sub-objectives and framework actions on adaptation that contribute directly or indirectly to the fulfilment of its main objective. It assesses the impacts of climate change on selected areas of the economy and the environment and proposes adaptation measures. It summarises the possibilities of financing adaptation measures in the conditions of the Slovak Republic.

Action plan for the implementation of the Slovak Republic Climate Change Adaptation Strategy (NAP)

The NAP was approved by the Government of the Slovak Republic in August 2021. It is intended to contribute to a better translation of adaptation measures into the sectoral policies of the ministries concerned. It also contains a proposal for a vulnerability monitoring system, a proposal for a system of mid-term evaluation of the adaptation process in Slovakia, including tracking the links between costs and benefits. It identifies approaches that help adaptation to ongoing or expected changes, increasing the resilience of systems. At its core are 7 specific areas such as water conservation, management and use, sustainable agriculture, adapted forestry, natural environment and biodiversity, health and healthy populations, adapted human settlements, and technical, economic and social measures. It identifies 45 specific measures and 169 tasks within them for the period of validity of the document until 2027. It also contains a matrix of measures and their financing options, including the amount of planned financial resources (where it has been possible to quantify this amount).

Law on climate change

The first ever law on climate change and low-carbon transformation of the Slovak Republic (the so-called Climate Act) is being prepared in the Slovak Republic. The law will also address the issue of adaptation in the relevant sections. It stresses the need and necessity to adapt to climate change and to take appropriate measures to anticipate the adverse effects of climate change and to avoid or minimise these adverse effects of climate change. Adaptation strategies and related measures need to be taken at the national level, but also at the local level, i.e. on the territory of higher territorial units, as well as at the local level. The draft law defines the various strategic and planning documents, the institutional framework and coordination mechanism for their development, updating and evaluation.

Efforts to integrate climate change adaptation into sectoral policies, plans and programmes, including disaster management strategies and action plans.

An overview of relevant sectoral documents is provided in the Annex 2.

Agriculture and food:

VALUE IS WATER - Action plan to address the consequences of drought and water scarcity

Vision of joint procedures in building modern agriculture in the horizon of 2035

Concept of the water policy of the Slovak Republic until 2030 with a view to 2050

Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan 2023 – 2027,

A set of measures in the field of hydromelioration for adaptation to climate change and restoration of irrigation infrastructure in Slovakia

Action plan for wetlands for the years 2022 – 2024 for the Slovak Wetlands Care Program until 2024

Biodiversity:

Updated National Biodiversity Protection Strategy until 2020

Action plan for the implementation of the Updated National Biodiversity Protection Strategy until 2020

Priority action framework for financing Natura 2000 in the Slovak Republic for the EU program period 2021 – 2027

Action plan for wetlands for the years 2022 – 2024 for the Slovak Wetlands Care Program until 2024

Buildings:

Long-term Strategy for the renewal of the building fund

Civil protection and emergency management:

National Security Risk Management Strategy of the Slovak Republic

Energy:

Updated Concept of the Hydropower Potential of Watercourses of the Slovak Republic until 2030

The Concept of electricity production development from small renewable energy sources in the Slovak Republic

Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan for 2021 – 2030

Low-carbon development strategy of the Slovak Republic until 2030 with a view to 2050

National Hydrogen Strategy: Ready for the Future

Forestry:

National Forest Programme of the Slovak Republic

Action Plan of National Forest Programme of the Slovak Republic 2015 – 2020

VALUE IS WATER – Action plan to address the consequences of drought and water scarcity

Concept of close-to-nature forest management in forests of the Slovak Republic

Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan 2023 – 2027

Action Plan for the Environment and Health of the Population of the Slovak Republic V. (NEHAP_V)

Transport:

National strategy for the development of bicycle transport and bicycle tourism in the Slovak Republic

Strategy of Electromobility Development in the Slovak Republic and its Effect on National Economy of the Slovak Republic

Strategic plan for the development of transport in the Slovak Republic until 2030

National Hydrogen Strategy: Ready for the Future

The concept of intermodal transport development of the Slovak Republic until 2030

Strategy for intelligent and sustainable mobility in Slovakia - a vision of the future direction of transport in Slovakia

Urban:

The Conceptual Framework of Urban Development of the Slovak Republic until 2030

Water management:

Flood Risk Management Plan in Sub-basins of the Slovak Republic

Water Plan of Slovakia - update 2015

VALUE IS WATER - Action plan to address the consequences of drought and water scarcity

Water Plan of Slovakia for the years 2022- 2027

Concept of the Water Policy of the Slovak Republic until 2030 with a view to 2050

Action Plan for Wetlands for the years 2022-2024 for the Wetland Care Program of Slovakia until 2024

A set of measures in the field of hydromelioration for adaptation to climate change and restoration of irrigation infrastructure in Slovakia

Industry:

Smart Industry for Slovakia Conceptual Framework

The Strategy of the Economic policy of the Slovak Republic until 2030

Rock environment and geology:

The Conceptual Framework of Geological Research and Geological Survey of the Territory of The Slovak Republic

Programme for the Prevention and Management of Risks Arising from Abandoned and Closed Extractive Waste Facilities (2021-2027)

Landslide Risk Prevenion and Management Program (2021 – 2029)

A participatory process of defining priority adaptation measures and tasks was applied in the preparation of the NAP. It was attended by more than 200 experts from various fields, including central government bodies concerned with adaptation issues, and was conducted using expert decision-making techniques. As part of the strategic environmental assessment process, the public was also able to participate in the work.

The NAS as well as the NAP support activities aimed at strengthening the awareness of stakeholders and the public about the expected negative consequences of climate change and the possibilities of adaptation measures in Slovakia. A number of projects are being implemented to reach/engage different stakeholder groups. The projects are mainly financed by the Operational Programme on Environmental Quality, the EU Horizon 2020 Framework Programme and grants from the European Economic Area and Norway.

Within the framework of the support of educational and information activities, a project financed from the OP Environment Improvement of information and provision of advice in the field of improving the quality of the environment in Slovakia (SAŽP) is being implemented. Within the framework of the project, information materials are prepared for various target groups, as well as educational and awareness-raising events are carried out.

Many projects involving mainly pupils and students are implemented through NGOs. The Green School Project (Živica Centre for Environmental and Ethical Education) is an environmental education programme for kindergartens, primary, secondary and special schools. It aims to contribute to preventing and solving environmental problems and to bring about real changes in the way schools operate and teach. The topics addressed also include those related to adaptation to climate change.

In accordance with the NAS and the NAP, entrepreneurs in their field of business, but especially in agriculture, food processing, forestry and water management, and industrial production, are obliged to adapt their activities to good economic practice with regard to climate change and the sustainable use of natural resources, in accordance with applicable legislation and best practices (in the protection of water resources, land management, cultivation of suitable crops, storage of pollutants, discharge of wastewater, use of efficient technologies in production processes, etc.).

In the case of the private business sector, the selection and prioritisation of adaptation measures is its direct responsibility. It should be provided with all available, up-to-date and objective information in this area on an ongoing basis by the state and public authorities. Given the intensity, frequency, magnitude and negative impacts of extreme weather events in recent years, adaptation to climate change is becoming a direct part of the analysis and decision-making of the banking sector as well, particularly in the context of lending to businesses.

The NAS and the NAP also support the establishment of formalised public-private partnerships for the preparation and implementation of adaptation measures at regional and local level.

The following 10 methodological guidelines are being prepared in the framework of the project Methodology for the assessment of investment risks associated with the adverse effects of climate change, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2023:
1. Methodological guidance for the development of a Climate Change Adaptation Strategy/Action Plan, including an assessment of climate resilience at the local and regional level
2. Methodological guidelines for business climate resilience assessments based on climate vulnerability assessments of economic sectors
3. Methodological guidance to support the deployment of green infrastructure solutions: analysis of barriers, support for the implementation of good practice and recommendations for public policies
4. Development of methodological procedures for obtaining, collecting and evaluating data and information in the field of climate change adaptation in order to fulfil reporting obligations at national and European level
5. Methodological guidance for assessing climate vulnerability and climate resilience of new investments and projects and integration into the EIA/SEA process
6. Methodology for assessing and taking into account the risks associated with the adverse effects of climate change in the preparation of spatial planning documentation at regional and local level
7. Methodology of prioritization of brownfield sites for their effective revitalization through future land use scenarios
8. Assessment of the risk and vulnerability of industrial sites and environmental burdens in terms of their preparedness and security against risks related to the adverse effects of climate change
9. Methodology for considering and assessing landscape/ecosystem/biodiversity value
10. Methodological guide "Risk and vulnerability assessments of linear structures and pipelines in terms of their preparedness and security against risks related to the adverse effects of climate change".

A sector-specific methodology for reducing climate change impacts, vulnerability and risks to major infrastructure plans and projects has been adopted by the Ministry of Transport of the Slovak Republic (Climate Change Assessment – Developing a Methodology and Embedding Climate Change Impact Assessment of Infrastructure Plans/Projects into Existing National Level Processes (2018)).

An overview of existing monitoring and information systems in the Slovak Republic that are relevant for gathering information on climate change mitigation, vulnerability, risks and enhancing adaptive capacity is provided in Annex 3.

The approved NAP defines the principles of monitoring and implementation of individual adaptation measures/tasks. For each task, an indicator(s) is/are assigned and evaluated on an ongoing basis. At the same time, on the basis of the evaluation of these indicators and on the basis of the assessment of the situation in the given area, the situation in the implementation of the strategic priorities and specific objectives is qualitatively assessed. Individual tasks are evaluated, in accordance with set deadlines for their implementation, on an annual basis through the Adaptation Working Group, whose members are nominated representatives of individual ministries and other CSOs, other public administration organizations, academia, NGOs, or other interested groups. Reporting of adaptation measures at EU and national level is planned under this regulation (Government Resolution 478/2018, No. 476/2021). At the national level, Information on the progress achieved in the implementation of adaptation measures in the Slovak Republic by 28 February 2023 has been submitted to the Government of the Slovak Republic and the next task is to submit to the Government of the Slovak Republic Information on the progress achieved in the implementation of the short-term objectives of the Action Plan in the Slovak Republic by 30 June 2024.

MRE indicators and methodologies are listed in the NAP, which was adopted in 2021. Their evaluation as of December 2022 is processed as part of the NAP2021 fulfillment calculation, but the indicators themselves are not available online.

In the future, the indicators will also be calculated through the Information System of Environmental Goals https://www.enviroportal.sk/isec. However, authorized access is required to access the system. Only some of its parts are/will be freely accessible to the public.

The measures are set out in the revised NAS – 2018. The objectives and specific tasks are elaborated in the NAP – 2021.

Significant finances for adaptation have so far been disbursed mainly through these financial mechanisms: Operational Programme Quality of the Environment (OP EQE), Environment Fund, LIFE Environment and Climate Protection Programme and others (INTERREG, HORIZONT2020, EEA and Norwegian financial mechanism). Within the Ministry of Investments, Regional Development and Informatization of the Slovak Republic, the Integrated Regional Operational Programme (IROP) and the Rural Development Programme within the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of the Slovak Republic are mainly used.

There is currently no comprehensive database of financial resources and the amount of financial resources spent to support adaptation projects and activities An Environmental Goals Information System is under preparation, which, in addition to informing the public about the current goals in the field of environmental care, including the topic of climate change, will also serve to track the implementation of these goals and the measures taken, with the ambition of evaluating the amount of financial resources spent as well.

Below is an overview of selected financial sources in the structure of currently available information.

Operational Programme Environmental Quality 2014 – 2020

In the 2014-2020 programming period, the Operational Programme Quality of the Environment (https://www.op-kzp.sk/en/) supports activities aimed at adaptation to climate change as well as disaster risk management through three priority axes. The funds can be used until 2023.

Priority Axis 1 (PO 1) Sustainable use of natural resources through environmental infrastructure with an allocation of EUR 131,946,524 supports measures related to the improvement of the conservation status of species and habitats and the enhancement of biodiversity, in particular in the framework of the Natura 2000 network.

As of 31 December 2022, the contracting rate for PO 1 was EUR 85,741,043 and the uptake was at EUR 43,462,562 (EU source) and EUR 7,669,864 (state budget source).
 Under Priority Axis 2 (PO 2) Adaptation to the adverse effects of climate change with a focus on flood protection, with an allocation of EUR 221,251,525, flood protection measures related to watercourses as well as off-watercourses, watercourses, water retention measures in urban areas, as well as the updating of flood risk management plans (including the updating of flood hazard maps and flood risk maps), the development of methodologies and information activities in this area are supported.

As of 31 December 2022, the contracting rate of funds for PO 2 was EUR 141,711,142 and the uptake was at the level of EUR 64,338,342 (EU source) and EUR 10,354,292 (state budget source).
 Under Priority Axis 3 (PO 3) Support for risk management, emergency management and resilience to climate change-influenced emergencies with an allocation of EUR 286,936,725, specific objectives support e.g. Modelling of emergency developments, monitoring and assessment of risks related to climate change and its impacts, building risk assessment and early warning and preparedness systems for climate change-induced emergencies, prevention, research and rehabilitation of climate change-induced landslides, hydrological and hydrological research, optimisation of its systems, services and strengthening of intervention capacities for emergency management at local and regional level, and building technical and institutional support for specialised rescue modules.

As of 31 December 2022, the contracting rate for PO 3 is EUR 219,445,962 and the uptake is at EUR 149,754,181 (EU source) and EUR 26,411,309 (state budget source).

Environment Fund (EF)

In the years 2021-2022, 17 projects aimed at improving air quality through adaptation measures were supported with a total amount of EUR 2,382,406,89.

Under the Watercourse Measures activity, 2 projects were supported for a total of EUR 251,192 and under the Non-Watercourse Measures activity, 2 projects for a total of EUR 136,318.

Village Renewal Programme (POD)

Under the Rural Environmental Quality activity, 11 projects were supported in 2021 with a total amount of EUR 43,543. In 2022, 17 projects were supported. The approved amount was EUR 98,016. The drawing will be completed by 06/2023.

Under the Green Infrastructure and Adaptation Measures to Mitigate Climate Change activity, 128 projects were supported in 2021 with a total amount of EUR 578,009.

LIFE Programme 2014-2020

Financial contribution to Slovak LIFE projects/international projects with Slovak partner organisations for the period 2014-2020 (total of 4 LIFE projects – until 31 December 2022):

EC contribution: EUR 3,008,798

LIFE Programme 2021-2027

Financial contribution to Slovak LIFE projects/international projects with Slovak partner organisations for the period 2021-2027 (1 LIFE project financed – until 31 December 2022):

EUR 418,127.54

SK-Climate Programme

The allocation for the SK-Climate Programme is EUR 21,430,588, while the contribution is as follows:
• the EEA grants are at the level of EUR 5,000,000,
• Norwegian Grants of EUR 13,216,000 and
• State budget of EUR 3,214,588

Integrated Regional Operational Programme (IROP)

Under the specific objective Improving environmental aspects in cities and urban areas by building green infrastructure and adapting the urban environment to climate change, as well as introducing systemic elements to reduce air and noise pollution, the following calls have been launched:
? Improving environmental aspects in cities and urban areas – building green infrastructure elements and adapting the urban environment to climate change, as well as introducing systemic elements to reduce air and noise pollution

Contracted: 121 projects for a total of EUR 40,030,953 Total eligible costs (EUR 34,026,310 ERDF source, EUR 4,003,095 state budget source)

Draw-down until 31 December 2022: EUR 28,560,659 (source European Regional Development Fund).
? Improving environmental aspects in cities and urban areas

Contracted: 77 projects for a total amount of EUR 47,238,168 Total eligible costs (EUR 40,152,442 ERDF source, EUR 4,723,816 state budget source)

Draw-down until 31 December 2022: EUR 4,526,175 (source European Regional Development Fund).
? Improving environmental aspects in cities and urban areas

Contracted: 38 projects for a total amount of EUR 17,488,834 Total eligible costs (EUR 17,488,834 ERDF source, EUR 0 state budget source)

Draw-down until 31 December 2022: EUR 0 (source European Regional Development Fund).

Rural Development Programme (RDP) SR 2014 – 2020:

Sub-measure 8.3 Support for the prevention of damage to forests caused by forest fires and natural disasters and catastrophic events:
- Allocation EUR 86,000,000
- Draw-down until 31 December 2022: EUR 803,477

Sub-measure 8.4 – Aid for the restoration of forests damaged by forest fires and natural disasters and catastrophic events:
- Allocation EUR 69,533,365
- Draw-down until 31 December 2022: EUR 49,741
 Measure M10 – Agri-environmental-climatic measure:
- Allocation EUR 151,863,208
- Draw-down at 31 December 2022: EUR 20,843,434
 Measure M15 – Forestry, environmental and climate services and forest protection:
- Allocation EUR 7,313,700
- Draw-down at 31 December 2022: EUR 945,160

The Scientific Grant Agency of the Ministry of Education, Science, Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic and the Slovak Academy of Sciences (VEGA) supported 15 active research projects in the period 2021-2022 with a total amount of EUR 178,454.

In the period 2021-2022, the Agency for the Promotion of Research and Development (APVV) supported 68 active research projects with a total subsidy of EUR 2,820,222.

The SHMÚ project "Development of comprehensive (2030/2050) climate change scenarios with a focus on the vulnerability of selected sectors in relation to adaptation measures" aims to improve the linkage of climate change scenarios with the development of policies and strategies in selected sectors at the national to local level, and also to provide a basis for future risk management. Scenario analysis within the project will focus on scenarios that integrate climate change into the broader context of environmental change. Climate resilient development pathways will then generalise the concept of adaptation processes and focus on future development models that make societies more resilient to climate change.

However, there is no comprehensive and up-to-date assessment of vulnerability and risks due to climate change in the territory of the Slovak Republic. Building on the SHMÚ project and in the context of the preparation of the new NAS, the MoEW will also focus on climate change vulnerability and risk assessment as part of the TSI "flagship" project on climate change adaptation, which provides the basis for planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of climate change adaptation.

The issue of adaptation to climate change is part of several strategic documents adopted in the Slovak Republic. Adaptation measures are also becoming part of the implementation documents of other ministries and organisations. In the context of climate change adaptation, projects that increase adaptive capacity are supported through various financial mechanisms.

At present, the Slovak Republic lacks an information system that would comprehensively assess how measures and implemented projects contribute to increasing adaptive capacity. Progress in this area should be brought by the implementation of methodological procedures for obtaining, collecting and evaluating data and information in the field of climate change adaptation for the purpose of fulfilling reporting obligations at the national and European level, which will propose a mechanism for cooperation between the relevant responsible ministries, a proposal for the creation of a functional network of cooperating institutions and the professional strengthening of the provision of information support. Setting up cooperation with local authorities in order to systematically obtain information on activities implemented at the local government level (level of policies, plans, implementation of specific measures). The structure of the web platform for the public will also be proposed, including the methodology for its implementation and operation.

At the core of the NAP are 7 specific areas: water protection, management and use, sustainable agriculture, adapted forestry, natural environment and biodiversity, health and healthy populations, the built environment, and technical, economic and social measures. Progress on priorities by area has been made as follows:
1. In the field of water protection, management and use

Resolution of the Government of the Slovak Republic No. 372/2022 approved the Water Policy Concept until 2030 with a view to 2050. Resolution of the Government of the Slovak Republic No. 319/2022 approved the document Water Plan of Slovakia for the years 2022 – 2027.
2. In the field of sustainable agriculture

Resolution of the Government of the Slovak Republic No. 94/2022 approved the Strategic Plan of the Common Agricultural Policy for 2023-2027 (CAP). It is the basic programming document of the EU's Common Agricultural Policy to support the sustainable development of agriculture, food, forestry and rural areas.
3. In the field of adapted forest management

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of the Slovak Republic has prepared the document "National Forestry Programme for 2022 – 2030".
4. In the field of natural environment and biodiversity

Currently, the Ministry of Environment of the Slovak Republic is working on the update of the Biodiversity Conservation Strategy 2030.

Update of the Slovak Wetland Care Programme until 2024 and the Wetland Action Plan for 2019-2021: The Slovak Wetlands Management Programme is the basic strategic document for the implementation of the Ramsar Convention obligations and is primarily based on the Ramsar Strategic Plan.
5. In the area of health and healthy populations

Government Resolution No. 3/2019 of 9 January 2019 approved the National Environment and Human Health Action Plan V (NEHAP V). The primary objective of NEHAP V is to minimize risks from the environment that may harm and endanger human health through the proposed activities of each priority area, which includes climate change.
6. In the field of the built environment

The new Act No. 200/2022 Coll. on spatial planning, as amended, remembers the protected interests of the state in the process of creating spatial planning documentation. A new feature is that the landscape plan, the flood risk map or the principles of protection of conservation areas will also become binding for the creation of spatial plans.
7. In the field of technical, economic and social measures

The importance of the insurance sector's role in protecting against climate and environmental risks is underlined by the new EU Climate Change Adaptation Strategy, which also implies the need to involve the insurance sector in the collection of data on climate change claims. This issue was reflected in the NAP and in 2022 the first discussions of the Ministry of the Environment of the Slovak Republic with the Slovak Association of Insurance Companies and the National Bank of Slovakia started.

The NAP details the steps needed to achieve the objectives set out in the NAS. It defines procedures for solving existing problems and obstacles to adaptation in the conditions of the Slovak Republic.

One of the problems in the area of adaptation is the cross-cutting nature of most of the proposed measures. There are problems related to the competences of ministries and also to the division of competences between state and local government. The desired state of play is to be able to improve systemic approaches to adaptation at least in the following areas:
• Improving the implementation of adaptation policies and legislation and better enforcement, increasing competences and strengthening control and sanction mechanisms.
• Increased transparency, public participation in the preparation and implementation of specific projects
• An efficient and functional system for the collection, processing and dissemination of data and information
• Better educating, informing and raising public awareness of climate change adaptation issues and adaptation needs
• A functioning system of multi-source funding for climate change adaptation projects.
 A systematic approach to increasing the adaptive capacity of the Slovak Republic is based on the principle of transparency. The impacts of climate change and the measures implemented and planned should be widely communicated to the public. The public must have a voice in the decision-making process and be part of the solution. Approaches and solutions should be based on expert analysis of data and information.

Approaches to implementing measures and tasks should be based on a symbiosis between addressing economic, social and environmental challenges. Adaptation measures require investment and create jobs, reduce energy costs, affect public health and improve quality of life. The principle of complementarity in the climate change adaptation process means that information, expertise and financial resources are brought together to produce a common effect.

The principle of "efficiency and effectiveness" says that it is necessary to consider how much money will be spent on a given measure (especially "cheap" solutions). The measures also aim to assess whether the measure will be effective enough to help reduce the risk from climate change.

The principle of "new issues require new approaches", based on the phenomenon of climate change and its impact on social, economic and environmental systems, especially in the residential environment (but not only there), will require innovative approaches, a combination of resources and the testing of alternatives.

The implementation of actions and tasks should support the principle of "partnership". This means involving stakeholders such as government organisations, academia, civil society and the private sector.

The review and updating of vulnerability and risk assessments are dictated by resolutions passed when specific documents are adopted. Specific steps are described elsewhere in this report.

The revision and updating of national adaptation policies, strategies, plans and measures are determined by the resolutions adopted when these specific documents are adopted. Specific steps are described elsewhere in this report. The conditions for the creation of a new National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy are currently being prepared in the Slovak Republic.

Green Economy Information Platform – enables the presentation and sharing of solutions in the areas of climate change adaptation, energy efficiency and sustainable use of resources, waste management, water management, green buildings and housing, etc. It is intended for businesses, municipalities, NGOs and the public. The platform provides general information, a database of companies and their environmental solutions in line with the principles of the green economy.

Village Renewal Grant Programme – creates the economic, organisational and professional prerequisites to support rural communities in their harmonious development. The programme supports specific activities aimed at addressing the acute problems of rural municipalities in the care of the rural environment, in particular green infrastructure and adaptation measures to mitigate the effects of climate change and care for the countryside.

The adaptation measures defined by the NAS and the NAP have been drawn up taking into account the frameworks set out in a number of international documents, including the UNFCCC, the Paris Agreement, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, and the EU Strategy for Adaptation to Climate Change (2013).

Among the international conventions, the NAS promotes synergies with the Convention on Biological Diversity, the Convention to Combat Desertification and the Framework Convention on the Conservation and Sustainable Development of the Carpathians. The NAS also takes into account the recommendations of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

Slovakia has adopted the "Draft Vision and Strategy for the Development of Slovakia until 2030 – Long-term Strategy for the Sustainable Development of the Slovak Republic – Slovakia 2030" (2021). It fulfils the role of the National Strategy for Regional Development of the Slovak Republic.

The objectives of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015 – 2030 have been reflected in the National Strategy for Disaster Risk Management of the Slovak Republic (2016) and the National Strategy for Security Threat Risk Management of the Slovak Republic (2022).

The Slovak Republic is a member of various international initiatives on climate change adaptation and is involved in the Danube Strategy and the Carpathian Convention. Transnational cooperation is currently underway between the European countries that share the Danube River to tackle flood risks, prepare flood management plans and build flood defences. In 2014, the Strategic Programme for Climate Change Adaptation in the Carpathian Region was adopted, which is mainly implemented through the activities of the Climate Change Adaptation Working Group of the Convention. In October 2017, a new Article 12 on climate change was adopted.

An example of LIFE projects is the LIFE17 project GIC/CZ/000107 "Green Infrastructure Minimising the Urban Heat Island Effect". The main objective is to reduce adverse climate impacts – in particular the urban heat island effect – in European cities by increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of planning and decision-making processes related to the use of green infrastructure. The Slovak partner of the project is the Carpathian Development Institute.

Through the Danube Transnational Programme INTERREG, the Slovak Republic participates in the project "Enhanced Cooperation on Flood Forecasting in the Danube River Basin" (DAREFFORT). The aim of the project is to create a standardised international platform for the exchange of hydro-meteorological data that will help to improve the quality and efficiency of forecasting systems in individual countries. An important element of the project design is the principle of solidarity and exchange of experience. The project partners are the Slovak Hydrometeorological Institute and the Slovak Water Management Company.

An example of cooperation is the LIFE17 CCA/SK/000126 project "Developing a resilient, low-carbon and more liveable urban residential area". The main objective is to balance adaptation and mitigation efforts in residential zones consisting of predominantly prefabricated buildings in order to increase their resilience to climate change, reducing their carbon footprint. Slovak coordinating beneficiary: Bratislava – Karlova Ves. The associated beneficiaries of the project are: Regional Association for Nature Conservation and Sustainable Development CI2, o.p.s (CZ); Passive House Institute (SK); Carpathian Development Institute (SK) and Bratislava Regional Conservation Association (SK).

In the framework of the INTERREG Central Europe Financial Mechanism, Slovakia participates in the project "Framework for improving water balance and nutrient balancing through the application of small-scale water retention measures". The project aims to raise public awareness of natural small-scale water retention measures and their benefits, and in particular to develop methods to assess the cumulative effect of these measures, to test them in pilot international river basins, and to provide tools and guidelines to facilitate public governance in strategy documents. The project partner is the Slovak Water Management Company.

Another example of a project from the INTERREG Central Europe Financial Mechanism is the DEEPWATER-CE project. Activities are focused on the possibilities of using managed groundwater recharge. It is the retention of water in the ground, which allows its subsequent infiltration into the underground horizons. The project partner is the Research Institute of Water Management.

Slovakia has also joined the international project "Climate Resilient Cities and Infrastructures – RESIN". The project addressed the development of practical tools to support cities in designing and implementing climate change adaptation strategies in their local contexts. One of the outputs of the project was the "Vulnerability Atlas and Risk Assessment of Adverse Impacts of Climate Change on the Territory of the Capital City of the Slovak Republic, Bratislava". The Atlas provides a detailed assessment of the sensitivity and vulnerability of individual districts of Bratislava to selected climate change impacts, including the adverse impacts of extreme heat waves and intense torrential rainfall on the population, road infrastructure and buildings. The project was supported by the European Union's Horizon 2020 framework programme. The project partner was the Capital City of the Slovak Republic Bratislava. Several other Slovak organisations collaborated in the compilation of the atlas.

The structure of the state environmental administration bodies is defined by Act No. 525/2003 Coll. on the state administration of environmental protection. The activities of local government bodies is regulated by Act No. 369/1990 Coll. on Municipal Establishment. These regulations also include the setting of targets for selected areas related to climate change adaptation.

Act No. 200/2022 Coll. on Spatial Planning stipulates in the spatial planning documentation at the level of regions, It contents measures to mitigate climate change and to adapt to its adverse consequences.

A new climate law is being drafted that will oblige municipalities and municipalities with more than 2,000 inhabitants to develop an adaptation strategy.

The National Platform of the Convention of Mayors for Climate and Energywas established in 2011 thanks to the NET-COM (NETworking of Covenant of Mayors, Energy Cities) project, which created a cooperation between the different European networks. CITENERGO is the founder and coordinator of the National Platform. The Union of Towns of the Slovak Republic (UMS) is a supporter of the Convention.

Representatives of the Association of Towns and Municipalities of Slovakia and the IMS are members of the Adaptation Working Group. Within the Horizon Europe programme, the Slovak cities of Banská Bystrica, Košice, Žilina and the municipal district of Raca have joined the research and innovation initiative Mission: Adaptation to climate change.

Cities and municipalities that are active in climate change adaptation include: Bratislava (Bratislava self-governing region - Program of Economic development and Social development of BSK for the years 2021-2027 with a view to 2030, Catalog of adaptation measures of BSK cities and municipalities to the adverse consequences of climate change), Banská Bystrica (Banská Bystrica self-governing region - Economic and Social development program 2022 – 2030) Košice (Košice self-governing region - Košice region's Landscape Restoration Program "POK"), Trencín, Trnava, Ilava, Nitra (Environmental study of Territorial Impacts of Climate Change), Kremnica, Kežmarok, Liptovský Mikuláš, Martin, Nová Dubnica, Nové Zámky, Prešov and Žilina

At the regional level, individual self-governing regions have developed Economic and Social Development Plans up to 2030. The topic of adaptation to climate change is also addressed.

Some regions are also preparing specific climate change adaptation documents for their territories:
• Adaptation Plan of the Bratislava Self-Governing Region to the Adverse Impacts of Climate Change (planned for adoption in 2023)
• Climate Change Adaptation Strategy of the Prešov Self-Governing Region (plan for adoption in 2023)
• Concept of application of SMART principles in the development of public policies of the Banská Bystrica Self-Governing Region – the area of RESILIENCE TO CLIMATE CHANGE (approved in 2022)
• ADAPTATION STRATEGY for the consequences of climate change in the Košice Region – Strategy, 2020 (plan for adoption in 2023)

City’s actions have been intensified by implemented activities and projects. Some of the projects were funded by international grants, including EU funded projects.

Examples:
- the project „DELIVER: DEveloping resilient, low-carbon and more LIVablE urban Residential area – Sídliská ako živé miesta odolné voci zmene klímy“ (link: https://odolnesidliska.sk/home/) funded by the European Commission, by the financial Instrument for the Environment: Program LIFE for the period 2014 – 2020.

City’s actions have been intensified by implemented activities and projects. Some of the projects were funded by international grants, including EU funded projects.

Examples:
- the project ACC05P01 „CLIMA BEST – Better CLIMA based on the BEST experiences” - Bioclimatic Park Drienova (link: https://bioklimapark.com/) funded under the Norwegian Financial Mechanism Programme ACC Climate change mitigation and adaptation
- the project ACC05P03 „Living smart with climate change“ (link: https://sccd-sk.org/[…]/) funded under the Norwegian Financial Mechanism Programme ACC Climate change mitigation and adaptation

- Banská Bystrica Self-Governing Region

BBSK Economic and Social development program 2022 – 2030

In priority 2 - Green region for future generations, the topic of climate change is the subject of the main strategic goal: 2.1 To ensure effective protection and restoration of all components of the environment with an emphasis on mitigating climate change and increasing the region's resistance to its adverse effects, and further specific goals: 2.1. 6 Transform forest management closer to nature and society and increase the resistance of forests to the adverse effects of climate change. 2.1.11 Increase the region's resistance to the adverse effects of climate change.

Strategic document The concept of applying SMART principles in the development of public policies - the area of Resilience to climate change

A separate part of the document is devoted to the environment, sustainability and climate change resistance. According to this concept, adaptation to adverse manifestations and integration of adaptation policy into all sectoral policies and development projects is a key prerequisite for increasing the region's resilience to climate change.

Zelený kraj - Environmental policy strategy "Envirostrategy BBSK" (in preparation)

A separate part of the document will be devoted to the topic of adaptation to climate change and will be incorporated into all strategic areas as a cross-cutting topic. It details the national Green Slovakia strategy at the regional level.The plan is to develop a complex adaptation strategy for both the residential environment and the free landscape, consisting of a vulnerability study and the adaptation strategy itself, which will serve as a decision-making tool.

- Bratislava Self-Governing Region

Program of Economic development and Social development of BSK for the years 2021-2027 with a view to 2030

Its goal is to ensure the continuous development of the region after taking into account the problems and expectations of municipalities, cities, the private sector and other socioeconomic partners of BSK.

Catalog of adaptation measures of BSK cities and municipalities to the adverse consequences of climate change

In addition to the development of adaptation measures, the publication also provides information on climate change itself, the relevant legislative-strategic framework, the process of preparing an adaptation strategy for municipalities and cities, examples of good practice and the possibility of financing adaptation processes.

BSK's Adaptation plan for the adverse consequences of climate change

The main goal of the document is to evaluate the vulnerability of the territory to the impacts of climate change at the level of the cadastral territories of individual cities and municipalities of BSK with a primary focus on the inner city (residential environment), Its approval is expected in May 2023.

- Košice Self-Governing Region

Košice region's Landscape Restoration Program "POK"

The goal of the Program is to change the approach to the management of forest and agricultural land, as well as urban land.

The Concept of the Adaptation strategy for the Consequences of Climate change (in preparation)

Program of Economic development and Social development of KSK for the years 2023-2027 (in preparation)

- Nitra Self-Governing Region

Environmental study of Territorial Impacts of Climate Change

The study analyzes the current state of climatic conditions in the Nitra Self-Governing Region, defines measures aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change and proposes adaptation measures

Parks as adaptation potential to climate change

An urban study, the aim of which is to use the parks of the Nitra Self-Governing Region as areas of first aid in extreme heat and at the same time as the rescue and use of natural and cultural heritage

- Prešov Self-Governing Region

Draft Adaptation Strategy for Climate change (in preparation)

The outputs of the proposal of AS PSK were implemented in the Economic development and Social development Program of PSK 2021-2030. The adaptation strategy will also be implemented in the Territorial Plan of the Prešov Self-Governing Region

- Trencín self-governing region

Program of Economic development and Social development until 2030

The topic of adaptation is addressed by Priority Green Region in Specific Objective 2.3. Adaptation to climate change, ecosystem services and biodiversity protection and 2.4. Landscape management and flood protection.

- Trnava Self-Governing Region

Program of Economic development and Social development of the Trnava Self-Governing Region 2016-2023 in the consolidated version of the update - strategy, 2015, 2020

Territorial plan of the Trnava Self-Governing Region, 2014
 
- Žilina Self-Governing Region

Economic development and Social development Program ŽSK 2021+

The development document of the region, as part of its goals and priorities in the area of the environment, also addresses the issue of supporting adaptation to climate change.

An overview of good practices regarding the steps taken to review and update adaptation plans, policies, strategies and actions at sub-national level is provided in the resolutions adopted when these specific documents were adopted. Specific steps are described elsewhere in this report. The basis for reviewing and updating documents is the systematic evaluation, which asseses the areas/measures from the point of view of their implementation or necessary modifications and adjustments. Progress in this area should be brought by the implementation of methodological procedures for obtaining, collecting and evaluating data and information in the field of climate change adaptation for the purpose of fulfilling reporting obligations at the national and European level. Setting up cooperation with local authorities in order to systematically obtain information on activities implemented at the local government level (level of policies, plans, implementation of specific measures)

Examples:
- the project CLIMADAM - Adaptation strategy for climate change and mitigation activities for the Slovak-Ukrainian border region (link: https://www.arr.sk/en/climadam/) - benefits from an grant from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway through the EHP Grants.

The project CLIMADAM benefits from an (amount – 462 243 €) grant from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway through the EHP Grants. The project has been co-financed from the State Budget of the Slovak Republic in the amount of 15%.

The aim of the project is: to better prepare the border regions of Ukraine and Slovakia for the expected climate change by developing an adaptation strategy for climate change for the Transcarpathian region of Ukraine and applying it (an adaptation strategy for KSK was created) within the pilot activities;
increase readiness for the introduction of effective measures in public transport for the city of Uzhhorod by developing a model of sustainable transport, using the experience of the Košice and Prešov regions;
increase the availability of information on climate change, the need for measures to mitigate the negative impact of climate change and adaptation measures to expected climate change.

Leading partner: Agency for Regional Development Support Košice (SK)

Partner 1: Department of Urban Development and Architecture (UA)

Partner 2: Košice self-governing region (SK)

Partner 3: Transcarpathian Regional State Administration (UA)

Partner 4: Institute of Carpathian Region Development (UA)

• Economic and Social Development Programme of the Bratislava Region for years 2021 – 2027