ECO Christmas from the EEA

It was one of the largest ecological events of the past year in Ostrów Wielkopolski. "Eco Christmas with EEA" attracted several hundred residents and guests from neighboring towns to the Ostrów Market Square. The event was a summary of the two-year project "E-Ostrów 2050. Ecological, Energy, Economic City" and was entirely financed from the European Economic Area.

Handing out Christmas trees, culinary workshops with tasting dishes straight from Norway, a visit from Santa Claus, floristry workshops, a photo booth, games and fun and a large dose of knowledge about funds from the European Economic Area - these are the main attractions of the ecological event that took place on Sunday afternoon, December 17, at the Ostrów Market Square.

The point where Christmas trees were distributed was the most popular. In total, 300 Christmas trees were delivered to residents. Among them were cut Caucasian firs or traditional spruces in pots. The choice of the Christmas tree was up to the recipient. Anyone who wanted to receive a free tree had to bring used batteries, caps or CDs. In total, as many as 60 kilograms of CDs, 170 kilograms of batteries and 180 kilograms of bottle caps were collected. The latter will support a charity collection for sick children.

- Great action. I'm very happy that I managed to get a Christmas tree. The children can't wait to decorate it. Congratulations on the idea - comments Mr. Krzysztof.

- My daughter and I eagerly took part in the floristry workshops. We made a beautiful wreath for the door. At that time, my husband and his younger daughter were in front of the stage and they were admiring Santa Claus, so we had a very nice time and at the same time we learned a lot about funds from the European Economic Area - says Mrs. Honorata.

There was also a culinary feast waiting for those interested. Here, a dish with fish as the main ingredient was served. The idea of the workshops was to draw attention not to waste food, especially during the holidays. The Christmas photo booth that day was also very popular. Nearly 290 photos were taken in three hours. That afternoon, the children were visited by a long-awaited guest... Santa Claus. Everyone could ask a question and take a souvenir photo.

The opportunity for a Christmas meeting in the eco-spirit was a project that has been implemented in Ostrów Wielkopolski for two years. We are talking about "E-Ostrów 2050. Ecological, Energy, Economic City". For its implementation, the city obtained a significant amount of EUR 3.5 million, i.e. over PLN 15 million from the European Economic Area in 2014-2021 and the state budget from the Local Development program. In total, the total value of the project is over PLN 25 million.

- Out of 255 cities, 212 submitted their applications. Over 85% of eligible entities submitted applications for funds from Norwegian funds, and ultimately they were distributed to 29 cities, including Ostrów Wielkopolski. It was a huge success for us and we are very proud of it. We invested money in several areas - social, environmental and economic. It is a multidimensional, difficult and ambitious project, but it is also a complementary project - emphasizes Beata Klimek, Mayor of Ostrów Wielkopolski.

During the "Eco Holidays with EEA" event, residents were reminded of all the investments completed as part of the project.

Anyone who listened carefully to funds from the European Economic Area during the event could win prizes in numerous competitions. These include puzzles, art and creative sets, board games and many other gifts.

"Eco Christmas with the EEA" was entirely financed by the European Economic Area and the state budget. European Economic Area funds represent the contribution of Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway to creating a green, competitive and inclusive Europe.