CULTIVATE seeks to understand the role of cultural heritage in shaping sustainable landscapes and communities in the context of societal challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic, the climate emergency and transitions required to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Read More: https://www.heritageresearch-hub.eu/project/cultivate/

Launched in 2023, the project brings together six countries around the Baltic Sea with the aim of increasing understanding of nature-based solutions and their contribution to improving the environment of the Baltic Sea. Learning sites of nature-based solutions are being established in coastal areas, wetlands and along watercourses, where local authorities, educational and research institutions, communities and visitors can learn about best practices. As part of the project, 17 replace sites have been established, focusing on three main themes: •multifunctional wetlands; •coastal sea habitats; •restoration of watercourses. The partnership includes universities, local authorities and eight Baltic Sea biosphere reserves located in the coastal areas of Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, Poland and Estonia. The Hiiumaa Development Centre is an associated project partner. Project results in Estonia Two learning sites with different focuses have been established on Hiiumaa. The Nuutri River learning site in Kärdla focuses on watercourses, catchment water management and the development of flood risk. The Köönaaugu learning site in Kõrgessaare focuses on the functioning of wetlands, coastal lakes and related habitats. The sites are open to all visitors and can also be used for citizen science activities. Kärdla and Lauka schools can use the sites as part of their teaching activities. The Nuutri learning site focuses on the catchment area and the impact of human activity on the river’s natural processes. It explores the effects of drainage, urbanisation and rapid runoff on the water regime, as well as the role of floodplains, riparian zones and wetlands in slowing down and retaining water. The Köönaaugu learning site focuses on the functioning of coastal wetlands. Topics include the role of wetlands in storing and purifying water, coastal meadows, birdlife, fish habitats and spawning areas, and the role of streams in connecting different aquatic environments. See also the virtual tour: https://sbntuur.emu.ee/#/et/sissejuhatus Both learning sites have been designed primarily to support environmental education and outdoor learning, but they can also be used for nature tourism. Information boards installed at the sites bring together knowledge collected during the project and support nature tourism in the area. The “Supported by Nature” project is funded by Interreg Baltic Sea Region. Project duration: November 2023 – October 2026. More information: https://interreg-baltic.eu/project/supported-by-nature/