International Day of Climate Action

Today, November 24th, we celebrate the International Day of Climate Action. Since the mid-twentieth century, the Earth System has faced serious threats from human-driven climate change, resulting in notable shifts in air, water, and soil temperatures, as well as changing spatial patterns and seasonal cycles of a wide range of climatic variables such as precipitation, humidity, wind, and cloud cover. Moreover, weather and climate extremes have had an even more profound impact on many human activities, socioeconomic sectors, and natural systems, unable to adapt to fast-changing climates. These trends are expected to worsen over the coming decades, calling for effective adaptation and mitigation efforts, and crucially, for global agreements complemented by local solutions. Climate Action has indeed been recognised by the United Nations as one of the Sustainable Development Goals. However, achieving this goal is especially challenging amid increasing global political and economic conflicts, exacerbated in a world where scepticism, disinformation and superficial judgments are widespread, even within the most developed societies.

CITAB plays a vital role in tackling climate change challenges through both adaptation and mitigation strategies. Its multidisciplinary approach combines agricultural sciences, environmental management, ecology, and biotechnology to foster sustainable development in rural and natural ecosystems.

In terms of adaptation, CITAB develops innovative solutions to enhance the resilience of agroecosystems and forest systems to climate variability. Research focuses on drought-tolerant crops, precision agriculture, and sustainable soil and water management. By leveraging advanced monitoring technologies like remote sensing, GIS, and sensor networks, CITAB helps farmers and land managers make data-driven decisions that optimise resource use and minimise climate-related risks. The unit also studies biodiversity conservation and ecosystem services to support the adaptation of rural landscapes and communities to changing environmental conditions.

Regarding mitigation, CITAB contributes by promoting practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance carbon sequestration. Its research on sustainable forestry, carbon storage in soils, and the use of renewable biological resources directly supports efforts to lower the carbon footprint of agricultural production. The centre also explores circular bioeconomy solutions, such as waste valorisation and bioenergy production, which contribute to a more sustainable and low-carbon economy.

Furthermore, CITAB engages in knowledge transfer and policy support, collaborating with local stakeholders, policymakers, and international research networks to ensure that scientific advances translate into practical Climate Action. Through education, outreach, and innovation, CITAB fosters awareness and empowers communities to participate in climate resilience and sustainability efforts.

Overall, CITAB’s integrated research and innovation activities make it a key contributor to both mitigating and adapting to climate change, supporting a more sustainable and climate-resilient future.