Open Call 1 Winners
Boosting the deployment of plastic litter collection and valorization schemes in the Mediterranean
We are thrilled to announce the two winning organizations of Open Call 1 of the REMEDIES program, dedicated to boosting the deployment of plastic litter collection and valorization schemes in the Mediterranean: Guimaraes Municipality (Portugal) & Esplora Interactive Science Centre (Malta).
The Open call 1 Kick Off Meeting (27.02.2024) has presented to the REMEDIES consortium the OC1 winners and marked the start of the 6 months implementation period of this open call winners proposed actions on valorization and collection of plastic litter and sustainable actions towards a zero-waste ocean.
This initiative, aimed at addressing the pressing issue of marine plastic pollution, has attracted innovative projects from across the region. After an evaluation process of 11 applicants from all Europe, we are proud to present the deserving winners who are set to make a significant impact and joining REMEDIES mission in combating this environmental challenge.
1. Guimaraes Municipality – Portugal
Project: CLEANUP4Guimarães
Duration: 6 months
The first winning organization, Guimarães Municipality, has launched the ambitious CLEANUP4Guimarães project, committing €90,000 to tackle plastic and textile waste accumulation along riverbanks. This initiative, in partnership with the Landscape Laboratory and the University of Minho under the European REMEDIES program, aims to establish a robust multi-stakeholder ecosystem involving citizens, municipal entities, and academia to promote circular economy principles.
The project’s centerpiece is the CLEANUP-RIVER system, which encourages collaboration and utilizes ecological techniques to identify critical points in local freshwater ecosystems and efficiently harvest waste. By segregating, characterizing, and categorizing collected plastics, the initiative proposes valorization processes, including recycling and reuse, thus advancing the circular economy agenda.
Moreover, CLEANUP4Guimarães prioritizes citizen engagement activities, environmental education efforts, and scientific research to raise awareness of plastic pollution’s impact. This innovative approach aligns with the municipality’s broader climate strategy and sustainable development goals, reinforcing Guimarães’ commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement.
2. Esplora Interactive Science Centre – Malta
Project: Island Guardians: For a Plastic-Free Med
Duration: 6 months
The second winning organization, Esplora Interactive Science Centre in Malta, spearheads the Island Guardians: For a Plastic-Free Med project. This six-month endeavor aims to address marine plastic pollution in the Mediterranean by creating and offering accessible resources and tools for community-based initiatives.
Running from February to August 2024, Island Guardians seeks to empower individuals and groups to take action against marine pollution through easily accessible resources and tools. By fostering community engagement and providing practical support, the project aims to catalyze grassroots efforts towards a plastic-free Mediterranean.
We commend both winning organizations for their dedication to tackling marine plastic pollution and advancing the goals of the REMEDIES program. Their innovative projects exemplify the spirit of collaboration and environmental stewardship, offering hope for a cleaner, healthier Mediterranean ecosystem.
For more information about the REMEDIES program and future opportunities, such as the Open Call 2 on Prevention & Zero-Waste with application period March 28 until June 5, please visit here.
Together, let’s continue our journey towards a sustainable and plastic-free future for the Mediterranean and beyond.
