Climate Change and Rising Adriatic Sea Levels
16–17 April 2026
Hotel Park Plaza Histria, Pula
contact: jadran2026@his-hr.hr
The international conference “Climate Change and Rising Adriatic Sea Levels” will bring together leading experts, engineers, and scientists from the wider region. It is organized by the Croatian Engineers’ Association, the Slovenian Engineers’ Association, and the Istria County to promote a joint approach to the challenges posed by sea level rise.
Over the two-day program, participants will discuss the geophysical, engineering, and social aspects of climate change in the Adriatic region. The conference will provide an overview of global trends and local climate projections, with a focus on practical engineering solutions and infrastructure adaptation. Special attention will be given to coastal protection, sustainable development of coastal cities, and the integration of modern technologies such as digital twins and IoT systems.
The thematic sessions will present examples of good practice, along with opportunities for cross-border cooperation and joint EU projects. The conference will also include a round table on the topic “Joint Strategy of Croatia and Slovenia for the Adriatic,” aimed at defining recommendations for future policies and investments. The second day will be dedicated to workshops and student projects that foster innovation and collaboration among young engineers in addressing climate challenges. In addition to the professional program, an exhibition of projects and a study visit to coastal locations are planned, linking the conference with real-world challenges in the field.
“Climate Change and Rising Adriatic Sea Levels – Istria 2026” aims to serve as a platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and joint action for a sustainable and safer future for the Adriatic region.
CONFERENCE THEMES AND OBJECTIVES
Geophysical and Oceanographic Aspects – Understanding natural processes and scenarios for the Adriatic
Engineering Responses and Coastal Protection – Presenting technical solutions and infrastructure adaptations
Economy, Tourism, and Safety – Assessing the socio-economic impacts of climate change
Urban Planning, Architecture, and Sustainable Development – Long-term spatial planning for coastal areas
PROGRAM
Introduction, Geophysical and Engineering Responses
Morning
- Opening ceremony (max. 30 min)
- Welcome speeches by representatives (4–5 brief speeches)
- Short video on climate change in the Adriatic region
- Plenary lecture: Global climate change trends and projections for the Mediterranean and Adriatic
Late Morning – Thematic Session I: Geophysical and Oceanographic Aspects
- Sea level rise projections until 2100
- Satellite measurements and geodetic systems
- Extreme weather events and coastal erosion
- Biological and socio-ecological impacts
- Joint discussion and conclusion: feasibility of a joint sea level monitoring center
Afternoon – Thematic Session II: Engineering Responses and Coastal Protection
- Technical solutions (dikes, barriers, digital twins)
- Artificial intelligence and supercomputers in risk modeling
- Sustainable and hybrid infrastructure
- Energy transition and water resource protection
- Panel discussion: “Smart Systems and Engineering Adaptations in the Adriatic”
Evening (optional)
- Project and solution exhibition
- Informal networking and cultural program
Urban Planning, Economy, and Conclusions
Morning – Thematic Session III: Urban Planning, Architecture, and Sustainable Development
- New concepts for coastal cities
- Sustainable tourism and heritage protection
- Green and blue infrastructure
- Community involvement and digital planning
- Discussion: Should construction be limited in vulnerable coastal areas?
Late Morning – Thematic Session IV: Economy, Tourism, and Safety
- Economic losses, financing, and insurance
- Blue economy and safety considerations
- Roundtable: Joint Strategy of Croatia and Slovenia for the Adriatic
Afternoon – Workshops and Conclusions
- Parallel workshops:
- A: How to prepare an EU project on climate risks
- B: Climate scenarios and spatial planning
- Presentation of student and young engineers’ projects (15–20 min)
- Regional network of institutions – initiative for long-term cooperation
- Adoption of conclusions and signing of a joint declaration
- Conference closing and invitation for joint publication
Target Audience
- Engineers of various disciplines: civil, hydraulic, geotechnical, mechanical, electrical, surveyors, architects, and urban planners
- Experts in natural sciences: geophysicists, climatologists, oceanographers, geologists, ecologists, and marine biologists
- Experts in spatial planning, sustainable development, and environmental protection
- Representatives of universities and research institutes (e.g., IRB, NIB, technical and natural science faculties)
- Representatives of local and regional government units (coastal counties, cities, municipalities)
- Government bodies and ministries, especially:
- Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development
- Ministry of Spatial Planning, Construction, and State Assets
- Ministry of the Sea, Transport, and Infrastructure
- Ministry of Tourism and Sports
- Ministry of Science, Education, and Youth
- Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs
- Business entities and industry: engineering, construction, energy, hydrotechnics, maritime companies, consulting and design offices
- Insurance and financial institutions
- Tourism sector (hotels, marinas, tourist boards)
- Professional associations and federations: Croatian Engineers’ Association, Slovenian Engineers’ Association, chambers, and technical societies; international organizations (Engineers Europe, IMEKO, etc.)
- Students and young researchers from technical and natural science faculties
- NGOs and civil society organizations active in environmental protection and climate change
- Media covering sustainable development, science, and technology
Discover the latest scientific and engineering achievements, exchange experiences with national and international experts, participate in discussions on climate solutions, expand your professional network, get inspired by innovative approaches, and contribute to the joint shaping of a sustainable future for the Adriatic.
ORGANIZERS
PARTNERS
