Ambitious plans for the BALTWRECK project for 2026. Partners inaugurate a new phase of cooperation

The new year marks a new chapter in the mission to protect the Baltic ecosystem. The BALTWRECK project partners inaugurated 2026 with a meeting during which key research goals for the coming months were set and the project's strategy for participation in key international forums was discussed, including the upcoming EUSBSR Annual Forum in Tallinn.

Partners inaugurate a new phase of cooperation

With the arrival of the new year, the BALTWRECK project consortium returned to regular working meetings to set directions for the coming months. The first "Partner Monthly Meeting" in 2026 provided a platform for extensive discussion on research progress and the strategy for presenting project results internationally.

Strategic planning and progress monitoring During the meeting, participants discussed key issues related to project management (WP1). Representatives of the project partners held an initial discussion on plans for further activities, with particular emphasis on preparations for the midterm visit to Lithuania and ongoing communication, which is the responsibility of the Association of Polish Municipalities Euroregion Baltic (APC ERB).

An important point of the meeting was the analysis of the achievements and outcomes of the research cruises to date. Experts reviewed the results obtained during the expeditions of the OCEANOGRAF vessel (WP2). Participants discussed not only the achieved results but also the identified technical challenges, which will allow for even better preparation of subsequent expeditions.

Technical and Biological Development: Representatives of the Institute of Fluid-Flow Machinery of the Polish Academy of Sciences and ITP Kiel presented the current status of work within WP3, including important data provided by the BIOTA research group.

Technological Perspectives: Partners from the NRC and NIO discussed the status of work on modern solutions (WP4 and WP5), presenting a schedule for future technical activities.

BALTWRECK at the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region Forum. During the discussions, much attention was paid to building the project's visibility in the region. Consortium representatives discussed opportunities to present their work to date at the upcoming EUSBSR Annual Forum in Tallinn. Participation in this prestigious event aims not only to disseminate research findings but also to strengthen cooperation with decision-makers and institutions responsible for the purity of Baltic waters.

The joint development and implementation of national wreck management programs will effectively reduce pollution, thus protecting the unique Baltic ecosystem for future generations.