“The green transition requires active public engagement”: Martin Heibel, Interreg NEXT MED’s Communication Manager

December 31, 2024
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Interreg NEXT MED will soon launch an €83.7 million call for proposals to tackle climate change across the Mediterranean, and 20% of this budget has been allocated to support projects designed and led by young people. The announcement, made at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, marks a decisive step toward climate resilience in an area warming 20% faster than the global average.Launching mid-January 2025, the call supports the green transition through cross-border collaboration. It extends beyond environmental concerns to include areas like business innovation and healthcare resilience across 15 Mediterranean countries.

 

Beyond conventional areas like water management or energy efficiency, the programme backs innovative solutions across multiple sectors. Projects can range from helping SMEs adopt low-carbon business models to preparing health systems for climate-related diseases. The call wants to tackle environmental challenges while specifically supporting youth-led initiatives and emphasizes public engagement, encouraging Mediterranean residents to embrace sustainable lifestyles.

 

Martin Heibel, communication manager of Interreg NEXT MED, shares insights about the programme’s evolving impact and their presence at COP29: Interview originally published on Interreg TESIM NEXT website.

Countries covered:

  • Algeria
  • Egypt
  • Israel
  • Jordan
  • Lebanon
  • Libya
  • Morocco
  • Palestine *
  • Syria *
  • Tunisia