Training for eco-managers implementing the EKOTEAM and LIFE projects
On 30 June 2020, the Polish Aviation Museum in Krakow held a training course for eco-managers implementing the ELENA project called EcoTeam and new eco-managers implementing the LIFE – Małopolska project in a healthy atmosphere.
The conference was opened by Tomasz Urynowicz, Deputy Marshal of the Małopolska Region and Tomasz Pietrusiak, Deputy Director of the Environment Department.
I am very pleased that together with us you will change the world, improve the air and climate, and fight for the most important civilisation challenges for Małopolska and for the residents of Małopolska. Małopolska wants to be a leader in environmental change. I am glad that you are with us!
– emphasises Deputy Marshal Tomasz Urynowicz
What is the EcoTeam project?
The Cracow Metropolis Association has started the implementation of the EcoTeam project financed by the ELENA project. The aim of the project is to create a network of 44 eco-managers in Krakow and neighbouring municipalities. The total budget of this task is over PLN 12 million. The work of the eco-managers employed in the project will focus on advising and helping the residents. They will also contribute to the implementation of investments aimed at increasing the energy efficiency of buildings. It will serve to increase the use of renewable energy sources and improve air quality in the municipalities near Krakow. The activities of all municipalities have been coordinated within the project, which will allow for more effective implementation of the provisions of the Air Protection Program for the Małopolska Region. It is estimated that the advice of eco-managers for the improvement of air quality, including assistance in submitting applications to the Clean Air Program is about EUR 48 million.
What was the training about?
The training was also dedicated to 7 new municipalities that joined the LIFE project on 1 January 2020. The workshops were attended by 60 participants. During the training, issues related to air quality in Małopolska, requirements related to the air protection programme and anti-smog resolutions were presented, as well as the activities of the LIFE project and its effects – with particular emphasis on activities carried out in the Rzepiennik Strzyżewski commune. Also of key importance was Mr Mariusz Sałęga’s speech from the Regional Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management in Krakow, who discussed in detail the grant programme entitled Clean Air.
The speeches were followed by a discussion during which all questions and doubts of the participants were discussed.
Cooperation is the way to success!
The effects of the work of eco-managers operating in the Małopolskie Voivodship have shown how great benefit for the commune is to employ people responsible for the implementation of air quality improvement strategies at the local level. The ELENA project is an opportunity to expand the network of eco-managers and efficiently raise funds for investments and their implementation. Moreover, it is in line with the assumptions of the new Air Protection Program, which will soon be subject to further consultations.
