News

Today, on May 9th, the LIFE Waste to Resources Integrated Project (IP) steering group meeting took place, during which partners discussed project updates and future plans.

During the meeting, partners provided updates on their activities in the last quarter and planned activities for the current quarter. Alise Vecozola, the head of the LIFE integrated project implementation division at the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Regional Development (MEPRD), informed that measurements of food waste have been initiated - surveys and diary testing are underway in all food chain segments, respondent recruitment is ongoing, and data from primary production in certain sectors have already been collected. The received data will be submitted to the European Commission next year. Another Dialogue with Science meeting on the circular economy has taken place, and the application process for scientific research competition for students on food and biological waste prevention and management issues in Latvia has concluded. Currently, MEPRD is developing a roadmap for the circular economy, and in autumn, 5 regional seminars will be planned with partners to inform about this roadmap and provide practical examples of transitioning to a circular economy. It is essential to note that an asbestos informational campaign has started in April, and until May 31st of this year, low-income and vulnerable individuals are encouraged to apply for the support program for the collection, transportation, and disposal of asbestos-containing slate.

During the meeting, Kaspars Timofejevs, a board member of Ltd. Konsorts, reported that work on the development of the operational model for the Vidzeme Regional Circular Economy Center (VRAEC) in Valmiera, which is the responsibility of the project partner Ltd. ZAAO, has been successfully completed. The center will be established with the aim of creating an ecosystem that promotes the reuse, repair, and recycling of goods, making it accessible and acceptable to a wide range of society. Lāsma Ozola, the leader of the waste-free community of the Cēsis municipality, also provided information on the selected operational model for the establishment and operation of a local repair and recycling center in the Cēsis municipality.

During the meeting, several other significant issues were discussed, including the accreditation process of the laboratory established by Ltd. Nordic Plast, which is in its final phase. Kristīne Geidāne, the quality manager of LLC Nordic Plast, expressed pride that highly qualified specialists have been recruited for the laboratory work, ensuring the testing of plastic packaging and products.

Meanwhile, at the conclusion, Valdis Bisters, the chairman of the board of Ltd. Hyrogas, provided updates on the progress of testing the gasification equipment and gave a visual overview of its operation.

During the meeting, partners discussed implemented activities and shared suggestions for improving the implementation of certain activities. Overall, the meeting provided an opportunity for all project participants to discuss the work done, solutions, and challenges, as well as to strengthen cooperation among partners. The lead partner of the project, MEPRD, expresses gratitude to all partners for their active participation in the meeting!