12/06/2026
PRESS RELEASE
EchoGreen Project Successfully Concludes Six International Events Across Europe
The EchoGreen – Reshaping Our Environment project, led by the Siġġiewi Local Council and funded by the European Union through the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) Programme, has successfully concluded a series of six international events held across Europe between March 2025 and June 2026.
The project brought together 14 local authorities and organisations from across Europe with the common objective of promoting environmental sustainability, climate action, circular economy principles, active citizenship and European cooperation. Throughout the project, participants exchanged experiences, shared best practices and developed practical solutions to address environmental challenges affecting their communities. The project also focused on the European Green Deal and the promotion of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Event 1 – Siġġiewi, Malta (26–29 March 2025)
The project was officially launched in Siġġiewi, Malta, where participants from partner organisations met for the first time. The event focused on presenting the objectives of EchoGreen, building project capacities, promoting civic engagement and discussing sustainable environmental strategies. Participants explored themes related to renewable energy, recycling, sustainability and the creation of greener communities.
Event 2 – Hollókő and Budapest, Hungary (September 2025)
Under the theme “The Defence of Local Culture and Sustainable Tourism: Economy, Ethics and Environment”, participants examined how local heritage and sustainable tourism can contribute to economic growth while preserving cultural identity and protecting the environment. The event highlighted the importance of balancing tourism development with environmental responsibility.
Event 3 – Bari, Italy (December 2025)
The third meeting focused on “Climate Change and the Fragility of the Territory”. Discussions centred on the environmental risks faced by European regions, climate adaptation measures and the role of local authorities in strengthening community resilience against climate-related challenges.
Event 4 – Vila Nova de Poiares and Coimbra, Portugal (9–12 February 2026)
The Portuguese event addressed climate mitigation and sustainable territorial development. Participants exchanged experiences on local climate policies, environmental governance and community initiatives that contribute to reducing carbon emissions and building sustainable territories.
Event 5 – Cēsis and Riga, Latvia (April 2026)
Hosted under the theme “Eco-Cycle 3R: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle”, this event focused on circular economy practices and sustainable resource management. Participants explored innovative approaches to waste reduction, reuse strategies and recycling initiatives that can be implemented at local level.
Event 6 – Ljubljana and Postojna, Slovenia (8–11 June 2026)
The final international event was held in Ljubljana and Postojna, Slovenia. Discussions focused on the European Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the theme “Towards a New European Deal for the Future”. Participants reflected on the achievements of the project, examined future environmental challenges facing Europe and explored how local communities can contribute to a more sustainable, resilient and inclusive future. The event also served as a platform for evaluating project outcomes and strengthening long-term cooperation among partner organisations.
The EchoGreen project culminates in the development of the “EchoGreen Decalogue”, a document containing guiding principles and recommendations for future environmental action.
Lasting Impact
Over the course of the project, EchoGreen successfully engaged citizens, local authorities, experts and civil society organisations in meaningful discussions on sustainability, environmental protection and active European citizenship. The project strengthened cooperation among partner communities, increased awareness of environmental challenges and promoted practical solutions that can be replicated across Europe.
The Siġġiewi Local Council, as Lead Partner, expresses its sincere gratitude to all project partners, participants, volunteers and local communities who contributed to the success of this initiative. The partnerships and knowledge developed through EchoGreen will continue to inspire future actions aimed at building greener, more resilient and sustainable European communities.
END
Kunsill Lokali Is-Siġġiewi
