On October 7th, a conference organized by experts from the Interreg Europe learning platform took place in Sarajevo. The project 𝙉𝘼𝘾𝘼𝙊 Nature-based Carbon Offsets 𝙄𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙧𝙚𝙜 𝙀𝙪𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙖, regionally implemented by the Department of Regional Development in Marshal`s Office of Świętokrzyskie Region in Poland, was recognized and selected among many European projects.

The Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship was invited to participate in the international event as a speaker to present regional experiences in small-scale water retention in forests. The event aimed to build capacity for decision-makers and stakeholders from Bosnia and Herzegovina involved in promoting flood protection. The meeting provided an excellent opportunity to exchange best practices in the areas of stormwater retention and green infrastructure in urban environments, as well as river restoration and water storage in rural areas.

The meeting was attended by a stakeholder in the NACAO project, Dr. Jacek Koba, a representative of the Regional Directorate of State Forests. The participation of the State Forests representative in this initiative will contribute not only to the promotion of the entire international NACAO project partnership, but also to the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship, by presenting innovative activities undertaken locally.

The Sarajevo event was part of a wider Interreg Europe effort to support new Partner States – including Bosnia and Herzegovina – in aligning with EU environmental policies and tapping into the rich pool of experience from existing projects like NACAO. With around 30 participants, including local and national public bodies, NGOs, and technical experts, the event offered an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas and foster international cooperation.