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SSSGAUE: Sharing sustainable solutions for green approaches in urban environments
Дата на публикуване:
11.11.2024 13:13
Project: Sharing sustainable solutions for green approaches in urban environments
Project acronym: SSSGAUE
WP 6 Transnational Partner activités
WP6 https://docs.google.com/
Event name: EUROPEAN VALUES AND CHANGES TOWARDS A GREEN EUROPE
Type: Transnational Partner activity
In situ/online: in-situ
Location: Croatia, Ludbreg
Date(s): 1st to 4th September 2024.
Website(s) (if any): Project website : https://cerveurope.wixsite.com/sssgaue
Ludberg council Croatia: https://emea01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fludbreg.hr%2Fportfolio-item%2Fsharing-sustainable-solutions-for-green-approaches-in-urban-environments%2F&data=05%7C02%7C%7C300333d83c204dc8c23408dcdbbd69e0%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C638626853777422151%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=VJ8qn2RluthUxkxrzGeui6uozswM83fcZlkqIFeKp8g%3D&reserved=0
Croatia Lundberg council: https://ludbreg.hr/portfolio-item/sharing-sustainable-solutions-for-green-approaches-in-urban-environments/
Sannat local council Malta- https://www.facebook.com/localcouncilsannat
Poland: Garnwo Council https://solectwo8.wixsite.com/solectwo-garnowo
https://fb.watch/uOA0liOTX-/
Stowarzyszenie Aktywna Integracja Rurzyca facebook page
Participants
Female: 31
Male: 19
Non-binary: 0
From country 1: Bulgaria 4
From country 2: Malta 5
WP6: Transnational Partner activity in Croatia, Ludbreg
EUROPEAN VALUES AND CHANGES TOWARDS A GREEN EUROPE
Took place between the 1st to 4th of September 2024.
With participants from Estonia, Croatia, Malta, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Poland
On arrival, participants visited the Ludbreg Holy Sunday 2024 - A centuries-old tradition and a rich program. Ludbreško Shrine, one of the oldest pilgrims in Croatia, gathers thousands of believers and visitors again this year! Since 1513. the year when Pope Leon x. Acknowledged the miraculous phenomenon of the Blood of Christ, Ludbreška Holy Sunday attracts pilgrims from all over Europe, with religious, cultural, economic, and entertainment content. Which was an interesting cultural event taking place in the town.
CONFERENCE: Understanding of European values and changes towards a Green Europe, started with a Presentation by Town Ludbreg and a welcome by the coordinator and host, followed by presentations from Malta, Poland, Estonia, Bulgaria, and Serbia.
During the following day participants went around the TOWN LUDBREG to observe good practices which included the Otok Mladosti the green heart of Ludbreg, a place for leisure walk, by the lake or by the river (Bednja river), which is also kayaking possible. Viewpoint St. Vinko. On the next day they visited good practice visit in Varazdin town. The Varaždin cemetery is a first-class example of park architecture and a natural monument, it is designed and arranged it like a French park, thus creating an intimate oasis of contemplation and respect for nature. VATROSLAV JAGIĆ PROMENADE, the park is a play of light and shadow created by alternating dense plantations of tall trees with open grassy areas, gives the promenade a special atmosphere. JOHN PAUL II PARK, The youngest park in Varaždin has a modern design, and its specificity is the interpreted plant species that are not found elsewhere in the city, which gives this park an educational character thanks to the water motif of imitation of the Drava River. STROSSMAYER'S PROMENADE, Around the Old Town, ramparts and moats have been preserved, which once formed an impregnable whole together with the fortress, and today they have been turned into a popular promenade in the very center of the city. The Youth Park is the first such park in Varaždin, and in fact it is a kind of continuation of John Paul II Park. The facilities are applied to young people looking for adrenaline and socializing, and there is also a well-equipped skate park, climbing walls, a children's playground and similar facilities. The children's playground is adapted for children with special needs.
WP 5 Conference: Circular economy applications at the grassroots level
WP5 https://docs.google.com/
Took place in Tallinn, Estonia
Between the July 11-15, 2024
62 participants took part representing 8 countries who were represented through
Poland: STOWARZYSZENIE AKTYWNA INTEGRACJA RURZYCA
Croatia: GRAD LUDBREG
Germany ARABISCH DEUTSCHES CENTER FUR DIALOG-WASLA EV
Italy: SOCIETA COOPERATIVA SOCIALE SINERGIE A R.L.
Malta: GENISTA RESEARCH FOUNDATION
Malta: Sannat local council
Serbia: Cognitive Alliances
Bulgaria: INSTITUTE FOR TECHNOLOGICAL TRANSFER AND INNOVATION
Bulgaria: Beloslav Municipality
Estonia: EESETI
The association Eesti People to People hosted the fifth meeting of the project SSSgaue This event was both productive and inspiring, bringing together participants to collectively explore and collaborate on circular economy initiatives, thereby fostering innovation and sustainable practices. The meeting commenced with a welcome dinner at the Hotel Sokos Viru, located in the heart of Tallinn. This informal setting allowed participants to connect and network, establishing a warm atmosphere for the discussions that followed.
The first day featured an opening session led by our esteemed Estonian host partners, whose warm welcome highlighted Estonia’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. This introduction set the stage for a series of insightful presentations that showcased diverse approaches to circular economy initiatives from various partner countries.
Presentations Overview:
Estonia: The first presentation focused on Tallinn's innovative strategies aimed at minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency. The discussion centred on collaboration among local stakeholders, illustrating the successful implementation of policies that support sustainable urban living.
Malta: The presenter discussed the challenges faced by rural communities, such as limited resources and geographical isolation. Inspiring initiatives aimed at empowering residents to adopt sustainable practices were highlighted, showcasing resilience in rural environments.
Poland: Insights into Poland’s approach to circular economy principles were shared, focusing on key initiatives in waste management and recycling across various sectors. Participants valued the overview of Poland’s evolving landscape and its potential for growth in circular practices.
Bulgaria: The emphasis was placed on grassroots initiatives driving circular economy efforts. The presentation highlighted the significance of community involvement and citizen engagement in fostering sustainable practices.
Croatia: The representative provided an overview of national strategies integrating circular economy principles into public policy, showcasing how Croatia addresses environmental challenges while leveraging natural resources.
Italy: The presentation on the Bio Circular Cities Project focused on grassroots applications of circular economy concepts aimed at urban planning and community design, inspiring participants with sustainable urban development strategies.
Serbia: Participants learned about ongoing initiatives promoting circular economy practices within local communities, highlighting Serbia's commitment to sustainable development.
Germany: The final presentation illustrated how communities in Berlin are embracing circular living, showcasing initiatives such as community gardens and repair cafes.
This resonated strongly with attendees, emphasizing community engagement in sustainability efforts.
The varied insights from these presentations deepened participants’ understanding of circular economy practices and sparked discussions during the workshop on potential collaborations and knowledge sharing.
In addition to the formal conference sessions and the workshops that took place, participants enjoyed a delightful typical Estonian lunch to experience the cultural food of the host country and informal discussions, and networking took place. The afternoon was enriched by a guided tour of
Tallinn's historic Old Town where participants were taken to various green initiatives which have blended well with the historical area, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage and open green spaces.
On Saturday, exploration continued with visits to local initiatives, which included a visit at the Tallinn City Council where the participants were greeted by the Deputy Mayor, councillors, and staff and together they discussed various green initiatives, policies, and shared good practices. This was followed by a visit to Kadriorg Park, illustrating the city's commitment to sustainability and the harmonious blend of urban and natural spaces. A visit to the Tallinn Botanic Garden further inspired participants with its emphasis on biodiversity and conservation.
The final day featured a tour of the Telliskivi Creative City, highlighting the vibrant intersection of culture and sustainability. This experience underlined the importance of cultural engagement in achieving sustainable development goals, where the participants held discussions on good practices with officers from the center. The 3-day meeting concluded with a farewell dinner, providing an opportunity for reflection on the knowledge gained and connections formed with a strengthened understanding and commitment to advancing circular economy initiatives within their communities.
WP 4 a conference titled EU Forest Strategy - Systems of Tree Species
WP4 https://docs.google.com/
Took place at the EUROPE DIRECT CENTRE, Napoli, Italy.
Between the 16th and 20th May 2024
38 participants took part representing 8 countries who were represented through
Poland: STOWARZYSZENIE AKTYWNA INTEGRACJA RURZYCA
Croatia: GRAD LUDBREG
Germany ARABISCH DEUTSCHES CENTER FUR DIALOG-WASLA EV
Italy: SOCIETA COOPERATIVA SOCIALE SINERGIE A R.L.
Malta: GENISTA RESEARCH FOUNDATION
Malta: Sannat local council
Serbia: Cognitive Alliances
Bulgaria: INSTITUTE FOR TECHNOLOGICAL TRANSFER AND INNOVATION
Bulgaria: Beloslav Municipality
Estonia: EESTI PEOPLE TO PEOPLE
After the welcome Ceremony and Introduction speech. The conference started with the presentations and discussions:
Examples of best practices in Southern Italy: Vesuvius reforestation following fires: Ms. Chiara Del Gaudio
System of tree species in town Kalkara Malta: H.E. Dr Mark Causon
Tallinn – a city with trees: Mr. Pavel Smulski
System of tree species in Town Lundberg: Ms. Melanie Koprek
Integrating Tree Species Systems for Sustainable Urban Environments: Insights from Serbia: Janja Dimitrijević & Mr. Bojan Jovanović
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Enhancing Tree Species in Berlin: Ms. Noha Abdelrahman & Mr. Mostafa Abbas
System of tree species in Beloslav Municipality: Ms. Denitsa Todorova
EU Forest Strategy: Systems of tree species in Poland: Ms. Agnieszka Keler
These were followed by good practices visits to the Villa Comunale and Giordini di Palazzo; Parco La Floridiana; Certosa di San Martino; Castel Sant'Elmo and a visit to the historical center of Naples
WP 3 Conference: SYSTEMS FOR MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT OF TREE SPECIES
WP3 https://docs.google.com/
Took place at il-Kunvent community hall, Gharb, Gozo, Malta.
Between the 26th to 30th November 2023
93 participants took part representing 9 countries who were represented through
Poland: STOWARZYSZENIE AKTYWNA INTEGRACJA RURZYCA
Croatia: GRAD LUDBREG
Germany ARABISCH DEUTSCHES CENTER FUR DIALOG-WASLA EV
Italy: SOCIETA COOPERATIVA SOCIALE SINERGIE A R.L.
Malta: GENISTA RESEARCH FOUNDATION
Malta: Sannat local council
Serbia: Cognitive Alliances
Bulgaria: INSTITUTE FOR TECHNOLOGICAL TRANSFER AND INNOVATION
Bulgaria: Beloslav Municipality
Portugal: Sonhos
Romania: Associat Fir
The conference started with a welcome by the coordinator and host Dr Mark Causon.
A video presentation of the Buskett regeneration project was shown. The Buskett project was a project undertaken by the Ministry of the Environment, funded through the LIFE funds and managed by Dr Mark Causon. It involved the restoration of historic arches and rubble walls built in the 16th Century, the cleaning and removal of alien species growing in the watercourse, the planting of thousands of local trees, and the creation of footpaths and spaces for families to enjoy nature and the mini forest.
Malta- Ministry for National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government. Director Marisa Pisani Director Strategy and Policy Implementation, Local Government Division. Marisa Pisani has been serving as a public official for the last 42 years. In her long career she served, among others, as Director Corporate Services at the Ministry for Finance and for the last six years as Director Strategy and Policy Implementation, Local Government Division within the Ministry for National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government. She has been involved with Local Government since its inception and held the position of Executive Secretary for twenty years. Ms Pisani is also a Board Member of the Malta Library’s Council, the CERV Operational Task Force and the Inter-Sectoral Committee - Child-Friendly Town’s & Villages.
Malta- Member of parliament and shadow Minister for Gozo. Hon. Dr Alex Borg is a lawyer and Maltese Member of Parliament. In April 2022, he was appointed shadow minister for Gozo.
Croatia- Municipality of Lundbreg- Good practices of environmental initiatives in the city. Ms Melani Koprek
Malta- Ministry of Gozo Policy Development and program implementation. Mr Anthony Zammit, Project Leader of Simaseed and Simaseed Plus. Anthony Zammit is a Biologist and Environmental Scientist. He set up and for eight years led the ecoGozo programme, a Local Sustainable Development Strategy for the island spearheaded by the Ministry for Gozo. He was a board member of the Malta Environment and Planning Authority, and a member of the same authority’s Heritage Advisory Committee. He is also a visiting lecturer at the University of Malta and a member of the Inter-diocesan Environment Commission of the Church in Malta.
SIMASEED adresses the issue of the progressive loss of terrestrial biodiversity threatened by multiple factors such as climate change and anthropic pressure. The project contributes to halting the loss of terrestrial biodiversity and to promoting a model of sustainable cross-border development, improving the conservation status of wild flora and promoting the use in environmental restoration and in the nursery sector. The project realizes the repopulation of about 40,000 plants belonging to 20 different species representing the Habitat Natura 2000
Bulgaria- Municipality of Beloslav- “Municipal systems for monitoring and management of green areas in Bulgaria”. Nadya Dimitrova. Legal adviser in the Municipality of Beloslav. Her work is related to ensuring compliance with the current laws and regulations for the effective operation of the municipality. She has great experience in preparation, management, implementation and reporting of projects financed by the European Structural and Investment Funds, as well as by various other sources of funding and other donor programs. She is interested in sustainable public procurement. Together with Deputy Mayor Municipality of Sadovo Bulgaria Mr Petar Georgiev. ITTI Atanas Ivanov chief specialist in the "Ecology, Trade, Agriculture" department in the Municipal Administration of the Municipality of Sadovo and Joanna Joveva. Chief Expert Ecologist, Directorate "Municipal Property and territorial and settlement structure“ in Beloslav municipality. Her main activities and responsibilities are related to the development of expert analyzes and preparation of opinions on environmental protection, implementation of control over activities related to the management of waste, air quality, environmental protection and population health.
Malta- Ministry of Gozo, Director Joseph Cutajar
Poland- Stowarzyszenia Aktywna Integracja Rurzyca- Systems for monitoring and managing tree species in the National Forests in Poland. Agnieszka Kujawska- Deputy of the Forest Inspectorate of Chojna. A forester with 24 years of experience. She graduated from the Forestry Technical School in Starościn and then graduated from the Faculty of Forestry at the Agricultural University in Poznań (now the University of Life Sciences in Poznań). After graduating, she started working in the Chojna Forestry Inspectorate, holding various positions, where she works to this day.
Malta- Gharb local council. Mr David Apap Mayor of Gharb. AMPPA A study of a marine protected zone. The AMPPA project aims to create a new management tool for Marine Protected Areas (MPA), in consideration of the crucial role for the protection of the marine environment and for the sustainable development of coastal and marine areas, as the driving forces of the integration between resource protection needs and development needs of coastal communities. The tool proposed by the project is an integrated management of MPAs that directly involves all operators (public bodies, anglers, citizens, tourists, etc.) also through awareness-raising and environmental education actions. Expected results: +224.75 sq km of sites and marine protected areas that develop joint actions for the protection of biodiversity (of which MPA Egadi Islands 53.941 sq km, MPA Ustica Island 15.623 sq km, The North East Marine Protected Area 155.19)
Malta- Genista research foundation- Environmental Tree Monitoring Fig tree Malta. H.E.Dr Mark Causon Diplomat and environmental researcher
Germany- Arabisch Deutsches Center für Dialog – WASLA. Systems for monitoring and management of trees species in Berlin. Dr Mostafa Abbas- Lawyer, member of the German and the Egyptian Bar Associations. The Director of the Arabisch Deutsches Center für Dialog {WASLA} in Berlin. Ms Rania Negra. She holds a specialized Master in Cultural, Diplomacy and Soft Power.
Italy- SINERGIEAR.L. Impact of Tree Species located in Italy on the Environment and Biodiversity in European Community Ecosystems. Chiara Del Gaudio, a graduating student in Herbal Sciences, currently studying in a Master's degree program in Chemical and Environmental Toxicology at the University of Naples Federico II.
Poland- Stowarzyszenia Aktywna Integracja Rurzyca- "Green initiatives in school". Izabela Roczkowska. An early childhood education teacher at private elementary school in Pyrzyce, Poland. This is my sixth year of teaching. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Preschool and Early Childhood Pedagogy. With Master's degree in Child and Youth Care Education and Social rehabilitation from University of Szczecin. Agnieszka Wilczyńska. A certified nursery caregiver in a private nursery in Pyrzyce, Poland. This is my first year of working with children. I am currently studying Preschool and Early Childhood Pedagogy at Szczecin University of Collegium Balticum.
Portugal- SONHOS. Dr Onofre, Ana Maria dos Santos, is a Lawyer by profession specializing in imigration law & public law, with work expereince as a “law imigration consultant” with Casa de Moçambique Association; Africanos do Concelho de Vila Franca de Xira Association; Luso-Caboverdeana de Sintra Association. Has managed COMPETIR – Formação e Serviços as General- Director of COMPETIR Polska; General- Director of COMPETIR Hungary; General- Director of COMPETIR Romania; General- Director of COMPERTIR Cabo Verde; General Director of COMPETIR. Guinea Equotorial & General Director of COMPETIR East Timor. She is also a Training project coordinator & Training manager: Responsible for 60 training actions.
Serbia- Smart Consulting. JANJA DIMITRIJEVIC. Graduated language and literature educator. She is actively involved in numerous Erasmus+ projects, where she works as a consultant, and involvement in initiatives to environmental sustainability and addressing global challenges.
Romania- Asociația FIR. Alexandra Isacu, founding member of the association, works within the Social Protection Service, located in the organizational structure of The Social and Medical Services Directorate of Cluj-Napoca, since 07.12.2007, having experience in the preparation and implementation of projects financed by programs such as Erasmus+ and FAMI. She has a degree in administrative sciences and is a graduate of a master's program in the field of human resources. She worked for 16 years as a public servant, offering services to single people and socially marginalized families or at risk of social marginalization, families with newborns, migrants, etc. Also, she was a facilitator and trainer in many Erasmus+ projects, officially being accredited as a trainer. Maria Sîntea, the member of our association, has graduated from the University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca in 2009, being licensed in landscape engineering. She also has a master's degree in design, arrangement, and maintenance of green spaces. Since graduation, she worked in the field of design, execution, arrangement of green spaces, industrial spaces, rehabilitation of parks and historical monuments. She is passionate about developing a more responsible behavior towards the environment, of ecological practices, of developing a healthy lifestyle in the context of urbanization. Maria also held training courses in the field of landscaping and floriculture for people with disabilities.
Poland- 'Lotha Road Foundation for Nature' could be? Is it better: " Lotha Road Foundation for Ecology". President – Jarosław Płotkowski – teacher pedagogue (certified sociotherapist, career counselor, rehabilitation specialist), working with problematic youth and children for twenty years, has the right to conduct many different types of activities with children and young people, e.g. trips, camps, summer camps, green schools, survival, outdoor, historical reenactor, the constructor of replicas of medieval siege engines, history enthusiast, lover of Trzcińsko-Zdrój, guide and pilot tourist in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship, awarded by the Minister of Culture and National Heritage with a gold badge for the care of monuments, computer graphic designer and photographer with experience in the advertising industry.
Malta Dr Fiona Galea Pace. An educator who writes stories for children with an environmental theme. Dadu u l-Invenzjoni Meraviljuza.
Project administration meeting; Discussion on time frames; Reporting; Dissemination
Visit to a good practice- Wied il-Mielah. After the Gharb Local Council successfully completed the first phase of the environmental project at Wied Il-Mielah thanks to the help of Structural Funds for Malta (2004 – 2006), the Council has again been granted aid for its second phase of this ambitious project. This time the aid provided is approximately €570,000 under the Cohesion Fund (2007-2013). This project is co-financed by the Parliamentary Secretariat for Public Dialogue and Information and the Gharb Local Council. In the first phase of the project, the Council carried out work of conservation and protection of the Wied Il-Mielah, the work included construction and adjustment to parts of the rubble walls that were in such a poor state, as well as of cleaning up part of the Valley. These include among others: improving the accessibility to the valley through the construction of bridges, the construction of stairs to the sea and the installation of safety railings for the use of bathers, the planting of trees and improvements to the road. There will also be cameras powered by solar energy. The project’s aim is to offer a renovated local area for the benefit of local and foreign visitors, specifically for those who enjoy walks in the countryside. This will make the village of Gharb more competitive in terms of a rural tourist destination. The Council believes strongly in the potential of this unique gem of a valley, in particular the window formed in the rocks, and sea in the area that is popular for both fishing and by divers.
Visit to a good practice- Dwejra. The Dwejra Bay area is a geological and ecological haven, situated on the western shore of the island of Gozo, is a site that has a special place in the heart of those who love the environment. All the various surroundings are a blend of geology, landscape, fauna, habitats, shoreline, seascapes, archaeology, flora and history making this site an experience to remember. It is a site of rare scientific significance and of heritage value. Dwejra incorporates the Dwejra Bay, on approaching downhill on the left side including the Fungus Rock and Dwejra Tower. Further down on the right side the Inland Sea with its 65 metres natural tunnel which opens out into the open sea. The Blue Hole with its underwater marvels is rated as one of Europe's best diving sites. It is visited by so many divers from around the world.
Visit a good practice the regeneration of the Villa Rundle garden now provides recreational facilities and an open space for families. This project included the removal of old structures and concrete passages. A new reservoir was built in order to retain rainwater which will then be used for the watering of plants in the Villa Rundle Garden. The Garden also incorporates a playing area, a visitors’ centre and an area dedicated to open-air activities.
Visit a good practice the Cittadella in Rabat. The Cittadella project in Gozo has received the prestigious EU Regiostars Award. Well done to all those involved, including the @pa_malta staff, for providing monitoring & advice during the restoration phase!
The €14.5M work involved the restoration & rehabilitation of internal structures of this ancient walled city https://bit.ly/CittadellaEUAward
Visit to Good Practices: The Buskett forest gardens. Life Saving Buskett Project is the abbreviated name of the LIFE+ Project entitled ‘Soil stabilisation measures to protect Annex I habitats in Buskett-Girgenti Natura 2000 site’. The project aimed to conserve the habitats of EU importance composed of mature trees at Buskett, along the watercourse and the banks of Wied il-Luq (Poplar Valley). The Annex I habitats targeted by the project include: Priority Habitat 5230 – *Arborescent matorral with Laurus nobilis. This is a habitat typical of humid maquis characterised by dense thickets of Bay laurel trees. The foliage is evergreen and aromatic with a sweet scent. Habitat 92A0 – Salix alba and Populus alba galleries. Although denoting the presence of Willow and Poplar, this habitat is also characterised by Elm and Ash trees, all of which are deciduous (leaf-shedding) and typical of riparian woodlands. Habitat 9320 – Olea and Ceratonia forests. This is a maquis habitat represented by small to medium-sized evergreen trees, mainly Olive and Carob and other associated shrubs like Lentisk and Buckthorn, which are able to thrive in dry conditions. Habitat 9340 – Quercus ilex and Quercus rotundifolia forests. In Malta, this woodland habitat is represented by old forest remnants composed of evergreen Holm Oak trees. These trees are known for producing acorns. Habitat 9540 – Mediterranean pine forests with endemic Mesogean pines. This type of woodland is made up of mature Aleppo Pine trees. The leaves are evergreen and needle-shaped, with a characteristic turpentine smell. Like other conifers, these trees produce their seeds in cones. Various measures will be undertaken through the LIFE Saving Buskett project to stabilise the soil in areas supporting the abovementioned Annex I habitats and include the repair, restoration and rebuilding of retaining dry stone walls and arches defining part of the watercourse, and planting of characteristic trees. Invasive alien species, which compete with the native trees will also be removed to enhance the quality of the existing habitats. The project budget is €2.7 million, 50% of which is co-financed by the EU LIFE+ Funding Programme under the Nature and Biodiversity priority area.
WP 2 Transnational Partner activités
WP2 https://docs.google.com/
Took place at the Chojna Cultural Center, Chojna, Poland
Between the 12th to 16th August 2023
89 participants took part representing 9 countries who were represented through
Poland: STOWARZYSZENIE AKTYWNA INTEGRACJA RURZYCA
Croatia: GRAD LUDBREG
Germany ARABISCH DEUTSCHES CENTER FUR DIALOG-WASLA EV
Italy: SOCIETA COOPERATIVA SOCIALE SINERGIE A R.L.
Malta: GENISTA RESEARCH FOUNDATION
Malta: Sannat local council
Bulgaria: INSTITUTE FOR TECHNOLOGICAL TRANSFER AND INNOVATION
Bulgaria: Beloslav Municipality
Estonia: EESTI PEOPLE TO PEOPLE
Romania: Associat FIR
Spain: ABARKA NGO
The conference started with an introduction and presentation of the project by the coordinator and host Mgr Anna Dubik. A tour around the Palace in Krzymów, which was built in the early XIX century – participants were explained how this old disused palace and gardens have been restored through EU Interegg funds and now is used by the community of Krzymow for cultural and educational activities. https://zamkilubuskie.pl/krzymow/ , this was followed by a visit to the View Point in Widuchowa to experience Good Practices- This new viewpoint in Western PomeraniaTerrace in Widuchowa has restored a valley with the planting of local trees and created a walking trail with a fantastic view of the Lower Oder Valley and its nature, offering visitors a unique experience through the valley from the once degraded and abandoned state, opening new economic opportunities, restoration of the countryside and the environment.
In the afternoon the hosts in conjunction with the Chojna cultural center and the municipality organized a GREEN FESTIVAL, were we organized activities for children, painting recycled cotton bags with slogans in favor of the environment, picture drawings of the environment and folklore singing with environmental themes. During this festival, we organized a promotional stand for the promotion of the Project Sharing Sustainable Solutions for Green Approaches in Urban Environments SSSGAUE supported by CERV-2022-CITIZENS-TOWN Project 101089457 and presented good practices on green actions aimed at promoting environmental way of life and education to the visitors both local and the transnational partners. During the activity in the town square information leaflets on the project and give away were given to passers-by and participants to the festival promoting the project and CERV funding. A walk around Chojna observing good practices of the creation of green spaces in the town through the restoration of monuments and creating open green spaces for the benefit of the community: the monumental St. Mary's Church, the Foot- and bike path along the medieval city walls, the preservation of the Giant plane tree - the most impressive plane tree in Poland and one of the thickest trees in the country, a natural monument, over 30 m high, and its knobby trunk is 9 m in circumference. A visit to allotment gardens which are spaces around the town, created by the council and distributed to residents to convert into small allotment gardens, where the citizens take care of each plot and offer walking spaces around them and a good practice visit to the melliferous meadow which from swamp degraded area has been restored to its original environmental condition and wild flowering seeds have been distributed in the area to conserve natural habitats and offer another green space in the center of the town which is highly populous with flats around it.
On the 2nd day took place the organization of the GREEN CONFERENCE, where local experts, citizens, and transnational partners participated in sharing ideas, good practices, and information on green ideas for towns and cities.
- Presentation: Green Cities in Poland – Country Report 2023. STOWARZYSZENIE AKTYWNA INTEGRACJA RURZYCA POLAND Anna Dubik
- Presentation: Establishment of the Lower Oder Valley National Park – goals and objectives. Good Practice Poland- Ryszard Matecki
- Presentation: Life in the Oder Valley. Good Practice Poland- Piotr Rosiński, Piotr Piznal
- Presentation: Sustainable Forest management in a changing climate. Good Practice Poland- Agnieszka Kujawska
- Presentation: Investments in tourist and recreational infrastructure in the Gryfino county, considering the criteria and goals of sustainable development. MUNICIPALITY GARNOW-Mikołaj Gajowski
- Presentation: Regeneration of the Buskett Forest – Good Practice Malta; GENISTA RESEARCH FOUNDATION MALTA- H.E. dr Mark Causon
- Presentation: European Green Capital Tallinn 2023 – Good Practice Estonia. EESTI PEOPLE TO PEOPLE ESTONIA- Pavel Smulski
- Presentation: Bulgarian green cities policy and good examples. Presentation: Bulgarian local authorities and the European circular economy initiatives for a Greener city. ITTI BULGARIA-Elitsa Yaneva
- Presentation: Ludbreg Green Town - Dubravko Bilić
- Presentation: Green school initiatives. GHARB LOCAL COUNCIl- Victor and Miriam Galea
- Presentation: Discovering Italy’s Top Eco-Conscious Cities; SOCIETA COOPERATIVA SOCIALE SINERGIE A R.L TALY- Matilde Simonetti
- Presentation: Eco-City - Best Practice from Germany; ARABISCH-DEUTSCHES CENTER FUER DIALOG-(WASLA) GERMANY- Mostafa Abbas
- Presentation: GREEN CITY INITIATIVE IN ROMANIA, Udeanu Andreea Theodora and Vrenghea Simona Lidia.
- Presentation: Green initiatives in Spain- GURRUTXAGA ASIAIN and IDOIA Mrs
This was followed by a discussion- participants discussed and exchanged views with the speakers on the various presentations. The presentation of the country reports by a representative of each partner organization. In the conclusion session, the local coordinator thanked all participants and concluded on the importance of green open spaces in towns and villages.
The 3rd day was dedicated to good practices visits and discussions.
Visit to Bielinek Nature Reserve https://chojna.szczecin.lasy.gov.pl/rezerwaty-przyrody https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NY86idlpM38
Participants were taken to visit a green good practice by visiting the areas of Western Pomerania and the Bielinek nature reserve which 13,000 years ago were covered by an ice sheet, and on its outskirts there was a tundra inhabited by mammoths. Climate warming caused the ice sheet to retreat towards Scandinavia. The tundra was replaced by forests less friendly to mammoths, which is why the prehistoric animals decided to leave the territory of today's Poland. To this day, archaeologists find their bones in this area.
The Bielinek reserve is one of the oldest reserves in Poland. Pursuant to the ordinance of the Minister of Agriculture, Land Estates and Forests in 1927, this area was temporarily protected, and in the same year it also became the protected area of Naturschutzgebiet Bellinchen a. d. Oder ("Bielinek nad Odrą" protected area). After World War II, this area found itself within the borders of our country and the Polish authorities also decided to protect it. On the basis of the ordinance of the Minister of Forestry and Wood Industry from 1957, a floristic reserve was established. The forest-steppe landscape with an area of 75.55 ha is under protection. Thermophilous plants and trees grow here, including mossy oak. It occurs beyond the limits of its range, which ends at the foot of the Italian Alps. It is also his only position in Poland. The oldest trees are about 300 years old. Heavily hairy oak leaves are not the only attraction of the reserve. There are about 520 species of vascular plants here, including species entered in the "Polish Red Book of Plants", e.g. spider lily, stipa and giant puffball. On the southern slopes of the Oder valley there are xerothermic grasslands with steppe species, such as exceptionally valuable Stipa.
During the site visit, participants were taken to the observatory post which hosts state of the art GPS and satellite real time observation and maned between sunrises and sunset to monitor forest fires, activities and other abnormalities which can create problems in the forest. These monitoring warnings are shared with other observation posts which cover all Polish forests and also with the fire service department to be able to tackle fires and other dangerous activities immediately. The head of the forestry department explained how during last year’s hurricane thousands of hectors of forests were destroyed and through these observatory posts they could identify problem zones, collapsed power lines and fallen trees which can be danger to the communities living in or around forests.
Site visit to the Bicycle path on the old railway route Bridge Siekierki - Neurüdnitz
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QqX73SKJpA
https://rowery.wzp.pl/3742-pomorze-zachodnie-most-siekierki-neurdnitz
The bridges consist of a pedestrian and bicycle crossing and a viewing point. The whole is about 700 meters. This place is a very interesting historical souvenir, and now also a great tourist attraction of the region connecting Poland and Germany. The facility is a great point opening an impressive view of the Oder backwaters and the beginning of the Western Lake District bicycle route. The building was built in the 19th century as a railway bridge and was blown up during World War II. Later, the bridge was rebuilt, but it was not used for decades. In 2021, its reconstruction on the section on the Polish side was completed. On June 25, 2022, the German part of the bridge was opened. Thus, cycling across the Oder River and the border is now possible. A pedestrian and bicycle path, a resting place for tourists and a roofed viewing platform have been created on the bridge, and everything is located in the picturesque scenery of West Pomeranian nature. The bridge in Siekierki is located in a landscape park.
Site visit to Moryń Lake https://mynaszlaku.pl/moryn-atrakcje-turystyczne/
https://tv-polska.eu/film/56302-dawno-temu-w-moryniu
The place where the town is located was already inhabited in the older Stone Age. For approx. A thousand years ago there was a Slavic settlement whose inhabitants were in constant conflict with the Germanic people to the west. In the 10th year. joined the area together with the rest of Pomerania in the Polish state. In the 13th year. however, the city and area were detached from Poland for a period of 7 centuries. The town of Moryń was first mentioned in 1265. At the beginning of the 14th century. got the city marketplace rights. The fact that the city at that time had fortifications, a city court and the right to strike its own coin testifies to a significant significance at the time. Since then, the city has been destroyed several times during acts of war. In the interwar period, Moryń developed into a popular resort because of the beautiful old architecture of the city and its location on the lake.
WP 1 Transnational Partner activités
WP1 https://docs.google.com/
Took place at the Genista Research Foundation center, Gharb, Gozo, Malta
Between the 26/03/2023 to 29/03/2023
54 participants took part representing 7 countries who were represented through
Poland: STOWARZYSZENIE AKTYWNA INTEGRACJA RURZYCA
Croatia: GRAD LUDBREG
Germany ARABISCH DEUTSCHES CENTER FUR DIALOG-WASLA EV
Italy: SOCIETA COOPERATIVA SOCIALE SINERGIE A R.L.
Malta: GENISTA RESEARCH FOUNDATION
Malta: Sannat local council
Bulgaria: INSTITUTE FOR TECHNOLOGICAL TRANSFER AND INNOVATION
Bulgaria: Beloslav Municipality
Estonia: EESTI PEOPLE TO PEOPLE
The conference started with an introduction and presentation of the project by the coordinator Dr Mark Causon representing Genista Research Foundation Malta. This was followed by each partner introducing their organization through a presentation, followed by an explanation of the project tasks by Viktoriya Marinova-Nikolova from ITTI. Partners discussed the WP’s that need to be organized and in order to make sure that all partners will attend all the planned meetings a discussion and agreement on the WP’s timetable was agreed.
A good practice visit and talk were held at Wied il-Mielah project to showcase the project's best practices through the project measures were taken to harvest runoff water and conservation water in dry conditions, through this visit participants also visited a NATURA2000 site which aims to protect an endangered bird species and also discuss the rehabilitation of disturbed areas in the NATURA2000 site due to manmade dumping of waste.
A visit to the waste recycling facility to understand waste issues was organized where participants were shown how the BCRS machines take plastic bottles and glass bottles, giving locals a voucher for refund in shops, since its inception these machines have assisted in further separation of waste in the community.
During the 2nd day discussion on financial issues, dissemination and outcomes of the project took place. Followed by a visit to the Gharb local council and a visit to NGO’s in the locality.
On the 3rd day, a conference on ‘Greener and more sustainable urban developments’ was held followed by the signing of the partners agreement.
