InfraCARE ETN Partners Meet in Galway to Advance Inclusive Climate Action

How can cities ensure that climate action benefits all residents, especially those most vulnerable to climate change? This was a key question explored during the recent ENLIGHT Thematic Network InfraCARE project team meeting in Galway.

While urban infrastructure discussions often focus on roads, buildings, and technical solutions, InfraCARE looks beyond the physical to examine the role of social infrastructure—the networks, community organizations, public spaces, and support systems that help people connect, participate, and thrive.

This focus is particularly important because vulnerable groups are often among those most affected by climate change, yet their voices are frequently underrepresented in decision-making. By working closely with communities, researchers, and local stakeholders, InfraCARE aims to ensure that climate action is inclusive, equitable, and grounded in people's lived experiences.

The meeting brought together partners from the University of Groningen, which coordinates the project under the leadership of dr. Ethemcan Turhan, University of Bern, University of the Basque Country, University of Galway, Galway City Council, Galway County Council, Youth Work Ireland Galway and Burrenbeo Trust. The discussions marked an exciting step forward in the project and laid the groundwork for the next phase of collaboration, with a second research workshop planned in Bern later this year.