\u2022 The European project develops innovative nature-based solutions in Gran Canaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 The initiative aims to protect the coast against sea-level rise and preserve its social, economic, and environmental value<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Brussels, Friday, May 8, 2026. <\/strong>The European project LIFE COSTAdapta,<\/a> coordinated by the Island Energy Council of Gran Canaria<\/a>, celebrates Europe Day by highlighting its work in adapting coastal areas to climate change through innovative nature-based solutions. The initiative brings together public administrations, universities, companies, and European organizations to design, implement, and evaluate a coastal protection system that reduces erosion and wave impact, responding to rising sea levels and the need to preserve the Canary coastline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Innovative solutions for the coast<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n LIFE COSTAdapta is developing a system known as a \u201creef\u2013tidal pool,\u201d which acts as a natural barrier against waves without relying on traditional infrastructure such as walls or breakwaters. This approach helps reduce coastal erosion, minimize flood risk, and maintain the quality of the natural environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sustainability and climate adaptation<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The project is based on principles of sustainability and innovation, combining scientific knowledge with solutions inspired by nature. Its goal is to increase coastal resilience to climate change while protecting biodiversity and maintaining the social and economic uses of the coastline, such as tourism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n European values in action<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n LIFE COSTAdapta reflects the values of Europe Day by promoting cooperation, sustainability, and joint action against climate change, in line with the priorities of the European Union. The project brings together partners from different European countries, strengthening international collaboration to protect both territory and citizens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Impact in Gran Canaria and European outreach<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The initiative is being implemented in pilot areas such as San Felipe, in Gran Canaria, with the aim of demonstrating its effectiveness and enabling its replication in other European coastal regions. In this way, LIFE COSTAdapta positions itself as a benchmark model for climate adaptation at the international level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Funding and partners<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The LIFE COSTAdapta project has an approximate budget of \u20ac3.4 million and is co-funded by the European Union\u2019s LIFE programme. It is coordinated by the Island Energy Council of Gran Canaria and involves the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the University of Cantabria, INGECID, Raley Coastal Studies, ECOncrete AQUA, the Canary Foundation for Recycling and Sustainable Development, and the Finnova Foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n