We are proud to announce that the Interreg North-West Europe Care-Peat project has been selected as a finalist in the REGIOSTARS awards. Competing against a record 266 applications, the project stood out in the 'Green Europe' category for its contribution to climate action and environmental sustainability.
Funded in the 2014-2020 NWE Programme, the project brought together partners from Belgium, France, Ireland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom to develop innovative techniques for carbon sequestration in peatlands. Covering 8% of the EU’s surface, these ecosystems are crucial for their natural ability to store carbon. Unfortunately, many are degraded, releasing carbon rather than storing it. The project successfully restored 7 peatlands across North-West Europe, resulting in carbon saving of 9,600 tons of CO₂/year. Care-Peat also demonstrated innovative large-scale restoration techniques and developed tools and socioeconomic strategies for land managers.
"If we look at the world, peatlands only cover 3% of the land surface, while they capture 30% of all the soil carbon. That is twice as much as all the forests in the world"
Katrien Wijns, Project coordinator (Natuurpunt)
© Christof Van Ackere
Support Care-Peat in the public vote!
Care-Peat and fellow REGIOSTARS finalists will present their projects to a jury on 14 October in Brussels during the 23rd European Week of Regions and Cities. You also have the opportunity to participate by voting for your favorite project in the Public Choice Award. Voting opens on 2 September and closes at midday on 15 October. Winners in each category and the Public Choice Award will be revealed at the award ceremony on 15 October, concluding the European Week of Regions and Cities.
Mark your calendars and get ready to show your support for Care-Peat!
About REGIOSTARS
Since 2008, the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy (DG REGIO) has organised the REGIOSTARS awards every year. These awards have become Europe’s label of excellence for EU-funded projects that demonstrate the impact and inclusiveness of regional development. By addressing common challenges and seizing opportunities, REGIOSTARS inspire regions to create impactful and inclusive projects that benefit people and communities.
For more information, visit the REGIOSTARS website