BALTWRECK Mid-term Assessment & Communication Event for Project Partners and Stakeholders Held in Klaipėda

On 27–28 May 2026, project partners and stakeholders gathered in Klaipėda, Lithuania, for the BALTWRECK Mid-term Assessment & Communication Event for Project Partners and Stakeholders. The meeting marked the halfway point of the project and provided an important opportunity to review progress achieved so far, share research results, exchange knowledge, and discuss priorities for the next phase of implementation. The event brought together representatives of research institutions, environmental authorities, project partners, and other stakeholders working to address the environmental risks posed by leaking shipwrecks and underwater munitions in the Baltic Sea. Through presentations, discussions, and practical exchanges, participants assessed the project's achievements and explored future directions for strengthening the management of hazardous wrecks in the South Baltic region. The first day focused on presenting scientific findings and technical developments generated within the project. Experts shared updates on the environmental conditions around selected wreck sites, results from recent BALTWRECK expeditions, and innovative methods for detecting fuel residues and munitions using advanced technologies. Participants also learned about ongoing efforts to minimise ecological risks associated with hazardous wrecks, including the development of bioremediation-based approaches and management strategies informed by pilot studies.

Several presentations highlighted the project's growing knowledge base and decision-support capabilities. Topics included the development of tools for wreck management and prioritisation, molecular laboratory studies, and multi-biomarker ecotoxicological assessments aimed at better understanding the environmental impacts of underwater hazards. Together, these contributions demonstrated the project's interdisciplinary approach, combining environmental science, technology, risk assessment, and policy development.

The programme also included a study visit to historical military heritage sites in the Klaipėda region. Participants visited the Museum 39/45 and the Coastal Battery Memel Nord, gaining additional insight into the historical context of wartime activities in the Baltic region and their long-term environmental legacy.

The second day was dedicated to cooperation among project partners and future project activities. A workshop on project promotion, communication, and visualisation provided an opportunity to exchange experiences and strengthen outreach efforts. Partners discussed effective ways to communicate complex environmental issues to different target groups and shared good practices for increasing the visibility and impact of project results. The partner meeting that followed offered a comprehensive overview of progress across all work packages. Project partners and work package leaders reviewed achievements, presented ongoing activities, and discussed plans for the coming months. The discussions helped ensure alignment across the consortium and reinforced the collaborative approach that is central to the success of BALTWRECK.

As the project reaches its midpoint, the meeting in Klaipėda demonstrated the significant progress already achieved in improving knowledge about hazardous wrecks and underwater munitions in the Baltic Sea. At the same time, it highlighted the importance of continued international cooperation in developing practical solutions that contribute to the protection of the marine environment and the prevention of large-scale chemical pollution.

Mid-term meeting of the D-Effect project partners

On May 14–15, a mid-term meeting of the partners in the “D‑Effect – Lessons in Democracy and Civil Society” project took place. The purpose of the two-day meeting was to review activities to date, assess the progress of tasks according to the schedule, and discuss budgetary and communication issues, as well as the plan for the project’s conclusion.

During the working sessions, the partners reviewed the progress of task implementation, the financial status, and planned promotional activities. The discussions also covered the schedule for the next phases of the project and the mechanisms for monitoring and reporting results.

Closing Conference (OSI)

A key highlight of the meeting was the organization of the project’s Closing Conference (OSI—Operations of Strategic Importance Event), which is intended to serve as the culmination of the YDF (Youth Democratic Festivals) approach, based on the Round Table methodology. The conference is scheduled for March 4–5, 2027, in Hässleholm and aims to engage young people and create a space for dialogue among nations, generations, and sectors, showcasing the power and potential of civic dialogue.

Pilot Project During Almedalsveckan

The partners also discussed a strategy for promoting the Round Table and YDF methods in a way that is accessible to a broad audience, ranging from young people to those working with the younger generation and decision-makers. A pilot presentation of the methods is planned during Almedalsveckan (June 22–26, 2026)—Sweden’s largest event on civic participation. As part of this initiative, the partners will present jointly under the D‑Effect logo.

Conclusions and Next Steps

The meeting allowed the partnership to effectively summarize the first half of the project and coordinate activities for the coming months. Communication priorities, the schedule for preparations for the OSI, and tasks related to the pilot at Almedalsveckan were agreed upon.

Circular MuSe in Wejherowo: European partners are working together to develop practical circular economy solutions for cities and municipalities

This week, Wejherowo hosted an international exchange of experiences on the circular economy in municipal services. As part of a meeting of all Circular MuSe project partners, representatives of local governments, universities, and organizations from Poland, Denmark, Lithuania, and Sweden are working on concrete solutions designed to support more sustainable resource management in smaller cities and rural areas.

The two-day meeting is taking place at Ekofabryka Wejherowo and focuses primarily on practical activities: implementing pilot projects, exchanging knowledge, and preparing the next stages of international cooperation. Project partners discuss both the results of their activities to date and the next steps related to education, mentoring, and the development of tools to support local governments in the circular transition.

The first day of the meeting was primarily devoted to summarizing the project’s progress and experiences related to the implementation of training and educational activities. Partners present the results of the implemented training programs, the participant recruitment process, the most important topics raised by participants, and the practical aspects of organizing educational activities. Discussions also cover the further development of training modules in Poland, Denmark, and Sweden, as well as ways to engage local government representatives and businesses in the circular transition process.

Another key element of the meeting is discussions on mentoring and the development of the Circular MuSe Knowledge Hub—a platform for exchanging knowledge and best practices among project partners and stakeholders from various countries. Participants analyze the platform’s functionalities, its structure, and opportunities for further development so that it can more effectively support cities and municipalities implementing circular economy solutions.

One of the highlights of the program is a series of sessions dedicated to the pilot solutions being implemented by the project partners. These meetings take the form of an international expert review, during which the partners present the current status of their projects, technical specifications, and future investment plans. They then receive detailed feedback from the other participants and experts involved in the project.

In Wejherowo, one of the projects on display focuses on reusing sand left over from winter street cleaning. Partners from Denmark are presenting solutions for reusing sludge from water treatment plants, while Kalmar is showcasing initiatives for sludge management in the context of local municipal services. All these initiatives share a common goal: reducing waste, extending the life cycle of resources, and creating practical models that can be implemented in other cities and municipalities.

The second day of the meeting focuses on further developing the Circular MuSe knowledge base and building a portfolio of best practices for small towns and rural areas. Partners present the identified case studies and jointly assess their implementation potential, usefulness, and replicability in other municipalities. Particular attention is given to solutions that demonstrate how to effectively combine municipal services with the principles of the circular economy.

The meeting in Wejherowo is not only part of the project schedule but, above all, a space for practical cooperation among partners from different countries. Joint workshops, expert sessions, and study visits allow for the development of solutions that have a real impact on the development of more sustainable municipal services in Europe.

The program also included visits to the Eco-Factory and the urban areas of Wejherowo, allowing project partners to better understand local solutions and initiatives implemented by the local government and municipal entities responsible for municipal services.

The Circular MuSe project demonstrates that an effective transition toward a circular economy requires not only technology and investment, but also cooperation, the exchange of experiences, and the building of shared knowledge among cities, universities, and organizations from various European countries.

DON’T MISS OUT:

💡 You can already explore the basic features of the Circular Municipal Services Hub platform at this link: Circular Municipal Services Hub, where you’ll find a range of best practices, interesting case studies, and inspiration on how to support cities and municipalities in the field of circular solutions.

📅 SAVE THE DATE: If you’d like to join our expert team on a similar study visit to Kalmar, mark your calendar for September 28–30, 2026, and contact our project coordinator.DON’T MISS OUT:

Youth on Europe 2050 – the Mid-Range Youth Democracy Festival in Kretinga

Youth on Europe 2050 – Mid-Range Youth Democracy Festival in Kretinga, May 13–15, 2026 • Kretinga, Lithuania

The Youth Democratic Festival (YDF) took place in Kretinga from May 13–15. The city, which recently served as the Youth Capital of Lithuania, provided a space for discussion, the exchange of experiences, and workshop-based work on the challenges of the future.

Participants from Lithuania, Poland, Denmark, Sweden, and Germany worked in thematic groups, discussing topics such as artificial intelligence, climate change, the influence of large corporations, and mental health. Each topic was analyzed through a workshop-based approach, which allowed for the development of specific observations and recommendations.

The common conclusion reached by representatives from all countries was the need for a greater sense of security in a rapidly changing world. The young people emphasized the need for support in the areas of digital literacy, mental health protection, and transparency in the actions of institutions and companies.

Participants had the opportunity to work with experts in youth work, civic engagement, and digital literacy. Additionally, sessions were held on expressing concerns and actively participating in the life of the local community. Organizations working on behalf of the younger generation and local initiatives also presented at the event.

The D-Effect Project and Next Steps

The festival is part of the D-Effect project—Lessons in Democracy and Civil Society—which aims to incorporate the youth perspective into the EU policy-making process. The project includes a series of three Youth Democracy Festivals: a pilot, a medium-scale, and a large-scale event in each of the partner countries. The next stage in Lithuania will be the Large-Scale Youth Democracy Festival, based on the conclusions from the Round Tables and previous events.

Roundtable in Olsztynek as part of the D-Effect project - joint planning of the Youth Democracy Festival

In Olsztynek, a meeting was held as part of the D-Effect project dedicated to preparations for the Youth Democratic Festival (YDF). Young people, representatives of public institutions, non-governmental organizations, and local communities worked together on the concept of the event, identifying the needs of young residents and developing proposals for activities and program elements. The meeting was conducted in the form of a Round Table and formed part of the process of strengthening intergenerational dialogue in the municipality of Olsztynek.


Joint work on the YDF concept
The event in Olsztynek was implemented within the D-Effect project, which aims to develop youth participation mechanisms and create spaces for co-decision-making on local matters.
The meeting focused on preparing the assumptions for the Youth Democratic Festival. Participants analyzed what type of event would respond to the needs of young people, which topics should be included, and what forms of activity could increase engagement within the local community.

Youth voice and diagnosis of local needs
The first part of the meeting was dedicated to the work of young people from Olsztynek. Participants identified elements that are important for their daily life in the town, as well as areas requiring change or further development. Young participants then developed proposals for the Youth Democratic Festival, indicating possible activities, thematic directions, and solutions that, in their view, should be included in the event programme.

Perspective of institutions and local partners
The second part of the meeting brought together representatives of public institutions, non-governmental organizations, educational units, and local social initiatives. Based on the youth’s conclusions and proposals, the feasibility of implementing individual ideas was analyzed, and the potential contribution of partners to the future YDF was discussed.
The discussion focused on combining institutional experience with the perspectives of young residents and building a coherent event programme based on cooperation.

Key areas of work
During the meeting, particular attention was paid to identifying the needs of young people in the municipality of Olsztynek, defining possible themes and formats of the Youth Democratic Festival, designing activities engaging different social groups, and strengthening cooperation between youth, institutions, and local organizations.
The meeting created a space for direct dialogue and joint development of solutions based on local resources and experiences.

Next stages
The developed proposals will be discussed again at the next Round Table in Olsztynek, scheduled for the summer period. Based on them, the programme of the Youth Democratic Festival will be developed as a result of joint work between young people and local partners.
The event was attended by representatives of, among others, the Municipal Office in Olsztynek, Mayor of Olsztynek Robert Waraksa, members of the Municipal Council, School and Preschool Complex in Waplewo, OSP Olsztynek, Start Olsztynek – Club for People with Disabilities, Senior Council in Olsztynek, Active Municipality initiative, Association “Po godzinach,” Municipal Social Welfare Center in Olsztynek, Mayor’s Plenipotentiary for Prevention, University of the Third Age, Municipal Library in Olsztynek, Association of People with Diabetes, and students from schools in the municipality of Olsztynek.

About the D-Effect project
The D-Effect project supports the development of youth civic participation tools, including Round Tables and Youth Democratic Festivals (YDF). Its aim is to strengthen cooperation between young residents, public institutions, and social organizations in local decision-making processes.

Round Table in the D-Effect project in Elbląg youth and institutions co-design the autumn YDF edition

A meeting within the D-Effect project was held in Elbląg, bringing together young people, representatives of institutions, and local organisations. The main objective was to summarise ongoing activities and develop the framework for the autumn edition of the Youth Democratic Festival (YDF).

Review of key conclusions from the first Round Table

The meeting began with a review of the main outcomes from the first Round Table involving youth and institutional partners. Participants revisited identified needs related to youth participation in decision making processes and the quality of cooperation between sectors.

The discussion also highlighted lessons learned from previous collaboration experiences. These showed both strong potential for cross sector partnerships and areas requiring improved coordination, clearer communication, and earlier involvement of young people in planning processes.

Evaluation of the pilot Youth Democratic Festival 2025

A detailed evaluation of the pilot YDF edition held in 2025 in Elbląg followed. Participants analysed the applied working methods and the level of youth engagement, which was assessed as high and active.

At the same time, several organisational and communication barriers were identified. These included coordination challenges between partners, logistical issues, and the need to better align the event format with the expectations of young participants. The conclusions will be used to refine future editions of the festival.

Developing the concept for the autumn YDF edition

The next part of the meeting focused on designing the upcoming autumn edition of the Youth Democratic Festival. The session had a workshop format and included mapping program ideas alongside available institutional and organisational resources.

Participants identified potential thematic areas for the festival and matched them with concrete capacities of partner organisations. This allowed for linking conceptual ideas with realistic implementation possibilities in terms of human, organisational, and institutional resources.

Key discussion areas

The discussion centred on several guiding questions related to the future shape of the event. These included what young people want to contribute to the festival, how institutions and organisations can support their involvement, and what resources are already available within the local ecosystem.

Another important topic was the next steps in the cooperation process, with emphasis on ensuring a more coherent and structured preparation phase based on a partnership driven model.

Conclusions and significance of the meeting

The outcomes and ideas developed during the Round Table will form the basis for the framework of the autumn Youth Democratic Festival in Elbląg. The meeting reinforced the importance of strengthening youth participation structures and further developing local cooperation mechanisms between young people and institutions.

Participants

The meeting gathered representatives from:

BALTWRECK project - Mid-Term Interviews

The BALTWRECK project has now reached its mid-term stage. Since the beginning of the project, partners and experts from the Baltic Sea Region have been working together to address environmental risks associated with shipwrecks and potential leaks of hazardous substances.

We present a video in which representatives of the project consortium summarize the progress achieved so far, share insights from the first phase of implementation, and outline priorities for the coming months. The interviews also highlight the importance of international cooperation in protecting the marine environment of the Baltic Sea.

In the interviews, the experts speak about: the key achievements and results of the project so far, conclusions from the first phase of project implementation, activities already completed and current priority areas, motivations and inspirations behind the project activities, expected outcomes and future goals of the project.

We invite you to watch the video:

International cooperation in practice. Students from AMiSNS in Elbląg visited STG ERB

What does international cooperation, the implementation of cross-border projects, and the functioning of network organizations look like in practice in the Baltic Sea region? Students from the Academy of Medical and Social Applied Sciences had the opportunity to learn about this during a meeting at the STG ERB headquarters. The event was educational in nature and demonstrated how international partnerships are built and what role local governments and organizations cooperating at the European level play.

Practical aspects of international cooperation

On 17 May, a meeting with students of the Academy of Medical and Social Applied Sciences was held at the STG ERB headquarters, dedicated to international cooperation, the activities of network-based organizations, and the implementation of cross-border projects in the Baltic Sea region.

During the meeting, the Director of STG ERB, Marcin Żuchowski, presented the activities of the Association and the practical aspects of building international partnerships. The role of organizations operating in a network-based model was discussed, highlighting how they coordinate cooperation between partners from different countries and support the implementation of joint initiatives.

The lecture covered issues related to:

STG ERB and cooperation in the Baltic Sea region

Particular attention was given to the activities of STG ERB as an active participant in international cooperation. Experience related to participation in cross-border projects, institutional cooperation in the Baltic Sea region, and building lasting partnerships between local governments and organizations was presented.

It was emphasized that cross-border cooperation is a long-term process based not only on the implementation of individual projects, but also on creating stable networks of contacts, exchanging knowledge, and jointly planning development activities.

EGTC Euroregion Baltic as a cooperation platform

An important element of the meeting was the presentation of the functioning of the EGTC Euroregion Baltic as an institution enabling formal cooperation between local government units from the Baltic Sea region. Its role in project coordination, partner integration, and the development of international cooperation at regional and European level was outlined.

The activities of the Federation of Polish Euroregions were also presented as a national platform for cooperation between euroregions. Its importance in representing euroregions’ interests, exchanging experience, and strengthening cross-border cooperation in Poland was discussed.

Importance of local government cooperation and network organizations

The meeting also highlighted the role of the National Agreement of Local Government Organizations (OPOS) as a forum integrating local government organizations and supporting dialogue with public administration.

The meeting with students of the University of Applied Sciences in Elbląg provided an opportunity to present the practical aspects of working in international projects and the importance of competencies related to cross-border cooperation, inter-institutional communication, and the functioning of European structures.