A-AAgora aims to develop the methodology for a coordinated approach to the co-development of implementable NbS, through demonstrated, and validated, innovative governance structure and innovative technological architecture to boost resilience to climate change and mitigating its impacts in coastal areas. It will identify synergies in accordance with the Atlantic-Arctic ‘lighthouse’ context by promoting a deliberative democracy process and complement other priority areas within the EC Mission by setting a Community of Practice and developing a digital knowledge system. By placing emphasis on co-developed and co-implementable NbS at three demonstrators (Demo-PT, Demo-IE, Demo-NO), replicable and upscaled elsewhere, the project seeks improved public engagement and enhanced decision-making processes at all political levels based on scientific knowledge and adequate social and economic awareness using an EBM approach. It builds on the successful implementation of NbS at the Demo’s to which the necessary socio-technological tools will be produced as required for a realistic EBM planning cycle (up to TRL/SRL 7). The Living Lab concept will foster the exchange synergies at multiple scales between researchers and users, decision-makers and local communities, industry and SMEs. A-AAgora will demonstrate that restoration of aquatic ecosystems is possible at a large scale through reduction of pressures, EBM, and effective NbS including blue reforestation to boost coastal resilience to climate change impacts. As well, the A-AAgora will make the most of cross-Mission synergies, by targeting marine ecosystem restoration in coastal communities particularly vulnerable to the risks of sea level rise that urgently need to adapt to ensure their population and infrastructure are safe, climate-proof and weather-resilient. The design of innovative architecture, enabling interoperability with other systems and will also foster a more ‘digital ocean’.
