Paving the Way to Basilicata Climate Adaptation Strategy: A GeoDesign Workshop

This paper explores the application of the Geodesign approach to territorial planning for climate change mitigation and adaptation in the Basilicata region, as a contribution to the downscaling of the Italian National Strategy for Adaptation to Climate Change (SNAC) and the National Adaptation Plan (PNACC). As part of the GD-CURE research project, a spatially explicit and participatory methodology was implemented, integrating suitability analyses, impact modeling, and collaborative scenario design. The use of the GeodesignHub platform enabled structured engagement with a broad range of stakeholders—including local authorities, technical experts, researchers, and civil society representatives—facilitating the emergence of informed, context-sensitive, and collectively defined solutions. Land-suitability maps served as a critical tool for translating abstract climate objectives into actionable and spatially grounded interventions, addressing key sectors such as energy, agriculture, forestry, water resources, coastal zones, transport, settlements, and industry. This process supported the identification of territorial priorities, reduced implementation uncertainties, and anticipated potential land-use conflicts. The findings suggest that the Geodesign approach can enhance multilevel governance and foster a culture of climate adaptation rooted in spatial evidence and cross-sectoral collaboration. The experience in Basilicata offers valuable insights for replication in other regional contexts and contributes to the development of integrated, effective, and resilient territorial climate strategies.