Validated Expert info
Expert can perform the Lead expert role and Ad hoc expertise missions at network and programme level in relation to:
1. The design and delivery of (transnational) exchange and learning activities
2. Thematic expertise:
> Climate adaptation
3. Methods and tools for integrated and participatory approaches:
> Monitoring and evaluation for effective implementation
Summary
Dr.-Ing. Klodian Zaimi is a Civil Engineer with over 20 years of academic and professional experience in hydrology, disaster risk management, and climate resilience. He is widely recognized as the main developer of the Albanian Forecasting System for Natural Disasters, a milestone in Albania’s disaster preparedness. This national system has strengthened early warning capacities and resilience planning, while aligning with European frameworks and WMO standards.
He is Head of the Department of Hydrology and the National Hydrological Service at the Institute of GeoSciences, Polytechnic University of Tirana, and lectures in the Department of Environment and Geo-Environment. He holds a PhD in Extreme Events, with research focused on climate change impacts on floods and droughts.
At the international level, Dr. Zaimi represents Albania at the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in hydrology. He is a member of ALBCOLD (Albanian Committee on Large Dams), a former member of the AKBN Technical Commission for Renewable Energy, and has also served in different ad-hoc commissions for the Albanian Government, providing expert advice on hydrology, renewable energy, and disaster risk management.
He is a registered Civil Engineer, holding the Design and Supervision Licence, and certified in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Environmental Monitoring. This combination enables him to integrate engineering design, supervision, and environmental protection across diverse projects.
Dr. Zaimi has acted as Team Leader in several national and IPA-funded projects on disaster risk assessment and reduction, coordinating multi-disciplinary teams and involving stakeholders at both national and international levels. His leadership promotes climate change adaptation strategies and the use of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) for sustainable flood management, environmental protection, and urban resilience.
He has authored numerous scientific articles, technical reports, and national guidelines, contributing to knowledge on hydrology, climate impacts, disaster risk reduction, and environmental protection. His work is recognized for bridging scientific research, engineering practice, and policy-making.
He has participated in European and donor-funded programmes (Interreg IPA-ADRION, WBIF, URBACT, COST Actions, WMO initiatives, KfW, and World Bank), advancing hydrological modernization, dam safety, early warning systems, and climate adaptation in Albania and the Western Balkans.
As an educator and mentor, he is committed to training future engineers and hydrologists. Through his work with URBACT as a Local Mentor and expert in the Pioneers Accelerator Programme, he supports municipalities in developing sustainable water management, disaster resilience, and climate-adaptive urban strategies.
Memberships and Professional Registrations
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) – Albanian Representative for Hydrology
ALBCOLD (Albanian Committee on Large Dams) – Member
AKBN (National Agency of Natural Resources) – Former Member, Technical Commission for Renewable Energy
Ad-hoc Commissions of the Albanian Government – Member and Expert Contributor
Registered Civil Engineer – Holder of Design and Supervision Licence in Civil Engineering
Certified Environmental Expert – Certificates in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Environmental Monitoring
COST Actions – Contributor in European research networks on sustainable hydropower and flood risk management
URBACT IV Programme – Local Mentor