Estonia-Latvia cross-border cooperation for a sustainable future

Protecting and improving our biodiversity and nature

Within the 2021-2027 funding period, the Interreg VI-A Estonia-Latvia Programme supports projects which aim is to preserve and improve the condition of and access to the common natural treasures in the programme area. And in addition supports projects that implement pilot activities and practical solutions to tackle pollution and fight the loss of biodiversity (Priority 3).

The activities under priority 3 aim to safeguard and enhance our shared natural environment in the Estonia-Latvia border area. It focuses on conserving biodiversity, improving access to natural treasures, and implementing innovative solutions to reduce pollution. By encouraging cross-border collaboration, it supports actions that preserve ecosystems, tackle invasive species, and promote sustainable use of resources. The goal is to ensure the health and sustainability of our natural surroundings, contributing to broader biodiversity and environmental objectives at the European Union level.

The First Call for project proposals within the Estonia-Latvia programme was open from 7 November 2022 to 15 February 2023. In total 26 projects were approved and below are short summaries of three projects which were co-financed under priority 3: Sustainable and resilient programme area.

Projects addressing cross-border environmental challenges

These projects highlight the program's strong commitment to protecting the environment and bringing new ideas to life. They serve as a model for future efforts where countries work together to improve nature.

AUTOFISH	The AUTOFISH project focuses on sustainable fisheries management in the Gulf of Riga through cross-border cooperation and the use of an autonomous surface research vessel (USV). It aims to enhance the joint management of shared fisheries resources, sustain biodiversity, and support the economic and social welfare of fisheries communities by introducing innovative methodologies and technologies.
BIOFLOAT	The BioFloat project aims to enhance urban biodiversity and water ecosystem quality by creating and testing innovative green infrastructure, specifically floating islands. These islands, two in Latvia and one in Estonia, will serve as biodiversity hubs for birds and invertebrates, and as pollution filters for urban water bodies.
RIFORMA	The RiForMa project focuses on riparian forest management through the development of an ecosystem service evaluation tool integrated into the LVM GEO forest management platform. Aimed at riparian forest owners in Latvia and Estonia, the tool facilitates modeling of future property scenarios with various management alternatives. The project involves preparatory work, evaluation of ecosystem services, data collection, tool development, testing, and dissemination among stakeholders through seminars and workshops. It encourages the exchange of technology and networking among forest owners in both countries.