Cooperation between Małopolska region and Podkarpacie region for clean air
On 22 November 2024, another meeting of representatives of the Małopolska and Podkarpackie voivodeships took place. This was an important event in the framework of interregional cooperation aimed at exchanging experience and working together to protect the environment. Podkarpacie, currently implementing the LIFE project ‘Podkarpackie – live and breathe’, had the opportunity to draw inspiration from the experience of Małopolska, which is successfully implementing the LIFE IP project ‘Małopolska in a healthy atmosphere’.
Eco-advisers on the frontline of the fight for clean air
The meeting focused on the experience of the work of eco-advisers – key figures in environmental education and air quality improvement activities. Experienced specialists from Małopolska region:
- Paulina Mrzygłód (Andrychów municipality),
- Dariusz Zborowski (Myślenice Municipality),
- Aleksandra Piegza (municipality of Świątniki Górne),
shared their knowledge and the challenges they face on a daily basis. They talked about effective strategies for engaging residents in environmental activities, motivating them to participate in environmental programmes and methods for changing environmental awareness.
Podkarpacie at the start of its journey
Eco-managers from the Podkarpacie region, who are just starting their work, had a unique opportunity to ask questions of more experienced colleagues and receive practical guidance. Discussions covered, among others:
- the technical aspects of an environmental officer’s work,
- ways of communicating effectively with residents,
- tools for building trust in local communities.
The exchange of experiences was intensive and the experts from the Malopolska region stressed that patience, commitment and personal contact with the residents were the keys to success.
Impact of eco-managers on local communities
The work of eco-managers, although demanding, brings tangible benefits. Thanks to their involvement:
- residents begin to see the real benefits of caring for the environment,
- environmental initiatives are more effective,
- there is a growing awareness of the need to protect air and public health.
Common goal: clean air for all
The meeting was another step in building inter-regional cooperation that is likely to have long-term effects. Working together for clean air proves that concern for the environment has no borders – it brings people, communities and entire regions together.
The Podkarpacie region, drawing inspiration from the Małopolska region, has gained a solid foundation for its LIFE project ‘Podkarpackie – live and breathe’. Further such meetings will certainly strengthen this cooperation and allow for even more effective action.
