The SYNERGIES project aims to raise the level of preparedness for environmental disasters by creating synergies between people, projects and solutions.
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The 2024 report by Legambiente’s Città Clima Observatory highlights the increasingly dramatic effects of the climate crisis on Italy , with a total of 351 extreme weather events in the last year alone. These included the two floods that struck Emilia-Romagna last fall, images of which demonstrate the increasingly violent effects of the catastrophic events affecting our country.
Deep Blue, an Italian SME operating in the field of research and consultancy, works to support authorities and rescuers in crisis and emergency management . Coordinated by Deep Blue and running for three years (until November 2026), the SYNERGIES project is funded by HORIZON, the European Union’s Framework Programme for Innovation. Its primary goal is to implement and bring to a higher level of maturity solutions already developed in previous research projects. “SYNERGIES supports six projects,” explains Alessia Golfetti , Head of the Secure Societies Area at Deep Blue, “so as to ensure continuity in research and capitalize on the results already achieved.” To support authorities and responders in preparing for crisis management, the consortium will develop an “atlas” with materials and best practices learned from previous projects and case studies, tailored to the real needs of those who will use it. “Another goal is to structure a training program for community leaders, social workers, first responders, and teachers ,” Golfetti continues, “that will provide them with tools to promote a culture of preparedness by engaging citizens .” A key focus of the project is improving communication between authorities, emergency responders, and citizens during the preparation phase. To this end, a platform will be developed containing innovative tools and strategies to share information and actively engage citizens, especially the most vulnerable groups. “Finally, the project will address the management of spontaneous volunteers ,” Golfetti emphasizes, “a resource often overlooked in the preparation phase, but crucial during emergencies.” Among the planned tools, SYNERGIES will develop a serious game to raise awareness of the importance of integrating volunteers into emergency management plans.
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