A key focus is the removal of the invasive zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) and the innovative reuse of its biomass. This helps reduce excess nutrients in the lakes and supports circular economy principles. The activities are carried out in close cooperation between research institutions, local authorities, and NGOs. In Estonia, the scientific alignment with local practice is led by renowned marine ecologist Jonne Kotta.
Project manager Margit Säre highlights that “Blue Revival is a strong example of how research-based solutions and cross-border collaboration can address major environmental challenges. The project provides practical approaches that can later be used elsewhere in Europe.”
The project will develop and test zebra mussel collection and cleaning methods, explore potential uses of mussel biomass such as fertilizers or animal feed, conduct pilot activities on Lakes Peipsi and Burtnieks, and organize workshops, training days, and public events to share knowledge with communities and decision-makers.
The project runs from January 2026 to October 2028, with a total budget of approximately €1.04 million, and is co‑funded by the European Union under the Interreg VI‑A Estonia–Latvia Programme.
Project partners:
- Peipsi Center for Transboundary Cooperation, Estonia (lead partner)
- University of Tartu Estonian Marine Institute, Estonia
- Development Association of Peipsi Fishery Area, Estonia
- Institute of Food Safety, Animal Health and Environment "BIOR", Latvia
- Valmiera municipality, Latvia
More information:
Margit Säre, Project Manager
[email protected]
Peipsi Center for Transboundary Cooperation
www.ctc.ee
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Source: Original press release provided by the Peipsi Cooperation Center (27 January 2026).
