ECOMARINAS

The ECOMARINAS project is a collaborative initiative involving eight partner organisations from Poland, Lithuania, Sweden, and Germany under the Interreg South Baltic Programme 2021-2027. As a response to the progressing impacts of climate change and recognising the environmental pressures from recreational boating, the project focuses on raising environmental awareness and providing marina operators with the knowledge and tools necessary to minimise ecological damage. Project activities will focus particularly on tackling the issue of harmful substances discharged into the Baltic Sea, including sewage from vessels that significantly contribute to pollution and eutrophication.

The project ECOMARINAS is co-financed from the Interreg South Baltic Programme 2021-2027 through the European Regional Development Fund. The project budget is EUR 2.5 million. In line with the Interreg South Baltic Programme’s slogan “United by the sea into action for blue and green future – Innovative, Sustainable, Attractive and Active South Baltic”, the project fosters cross-border cooperation and knowledge exchange, involving local governments, marina operators, research institutions, and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and promotes sustainable water-smart societies living in harmony with the sea. The project runs from July 2024 to June 2027 and is led by the Gdańsk Sports Centre (PL) in partnership with the Pomeranian Voivodeship (PL), Tolkmicko Commune (PL), Klaipeda University (LT), Neringa District Administration (LT), Slottsholmen Marina Vestervik (SE), Coastal Union Germany (DE) and MARE Foundation (PL).

Key activities planned under the project include comprehensive comparative analyses and research to identify potential solutions for sustainable water use in marina management. These studies will serve as the foundation for addressing the challenges faced by marina managers and developing effective pollution prevention and freshwater saving methods. Pilot investments will be carried out in partner marinas, including the innovative hazardous liquid installation, which will enable disposal of oil, grease or other substances that are harmful to the environment.

Educational activities form a core part of ECOMARINAS, with workshops, self-assessment tools for marina administrators, and awareness campaign targeting marina operators and the general public in order to create a better understanding of our connection with marine ecosystems and the impact our activities have on nature.

Recognised as an Operation of Strategic Importance (OSI), the ECOMARINAS project will be implemented for 36 months. It exemplifies the commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection in the South Baltic Region, aligning with Interreg South Baltic and EUSBSR objectives.