EMP kliimaprogrammi lõpparuande esitamine 2025

Suur-Ameerika 1 / Tallinn 10122 / 626 2802/ [email protected] / www.kliimaministeerium.ee/

Registrikood 70001231

Pärt-Eo Rannap

Riigi Tugiteenuste Keskus

05.03.2025 nr 4-5/19/58

EMP kliimaprogrammi lõpparuande esitamine 2025

Austatud härra Rannap

Edastame EMP toetuste 2014–2021 programmi „Kliimamuutuste leevendamine ja nendega

kohanemine“ lõpparuande.

Lugupidamisega

(allkirjastatud digitaalselt)

Tanel Ross

finantsosakonna juhataja

Lisa: Programmi „Kliimamuutuste leevendamine ja nendega kohanemise“ lõpparuanne

Eleri Seer, 605 0298

[email protected]

FINAL PROGRAMME REPORT FM14-21

Estonia

Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation

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Programme short name EE-CLIMATE Programme Operator Ministry of Climate - Estonia (EE) Host Programme Area PA13 Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Financial Mechanisms EEA Grants Programme grant in EUR € 6,000,000.00 Programme co-financing in EUR € 1,058,823.53 Final incurred amount in EUR € 6,784,488.57 Final incurred rate % 96.11 %

PROGRAMME RESULTS Programme Objective: Climate change mitigated and vulnerability to climate change reduced

Eligible expenditure: € 7,058,823.53 Amount incurred: € 6,784,488.57

Issues the programme aimed to address

The main objective of the Programme was to mitigate climate change and reduce the vulnerability to climate change in Estonia. The Programme aimed to contribute substantially to the transition to a low- carbon circular economy in Estonia in a smooth, inclusive and informed manner. The resolution of the Estonian Parliament “General Principles of Climate Policy until 2050“states that Estonia needs a transition to a low- carbon economy. The long-term target (which also follows EU common aim) of Estonia is to reduce greenhouse gas emission by 80% by 2050 compared to the emission levels of 1990. The framework and long-term goal for the environment is set by the Estonian Environmental Strategy 2030 where one of the main objectives is the sustainable use of natural resources and reduction of waste generation. It can be reached inter alia through the successful implementation of circular economy. The policy framework consists of many international, European and national strategies and policies.

The programme “Climate Change Mitigation and Adaption” was implemented in cooperation with the donor Programme partner Norwegian Environment Agency. The grants were aimed at projects that promote economic growth, innovation and sustainable development and strengthen capacities in various fields such as education, environment, culture and social inclusion. Two projects were also implemented to increase the resilience of ecosystems.

The implementation of climate change adaptation activities has had social, environmental, and economic impacts on various target groups and contributed to broader awareness-raising. One of the most significant impacts already observed is the public attention these activities have garnered. Several project promoters share their experiences regarding the maintenance, establishment, and management of green areas, wind and solar parks, and the overall application of nature-based solutions. This influence will persist for years to come, as knowledge-sharing is not a one-time activity.

Programme contribution to overall objectives

The Programme contributes to the overall objective of the relevant Programme area, which is to mitigate climate change and reduce the vulnerability to climate change. The Programme achieved its aim. The Programme established some important measures and pilots that were needed to mitigate climate change and reduce the vulnerability to climate change at local level and made an important contribution to raising awareness about climate change. For example, as a result of the Programme Keila City Government developed green roof for public song festival ground, which helps to increase biodiversity and Tartu City Government developed reuse material bank, which helps to reduce

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construction material waste. Both examples help to raise public awareness about climate change. Viljandi and Tallinn Cities developed public water taps around the cities, that help adapting to reduce the effects of climate change, such as heat waves.

The Programme contributed to the overall objectives of the EEA Financial Mechanism. First, it promoted the social and economic cohesion in the EEA. As Estonia had some insufficiencies in the field of climate change in the EEA (e.g. public awareness and involving local level, etc.), some of these areas were addressed in the Programme, for example development local level energy and climate plans and development of educational materials for school students were part of the Programme. Before the Programme those areas weren`t enough important in Estonia, for example, since the Programme started, only two biggest cities (Tallinn and Tartu) had adopted their energy and climate plans. Also, all the built green areas are accessible to people with mobility impairment.

The Programme also contributed to the second important overall objective – bilateral cooperation. Cooperation with the donor states took place at all levels – at programme and projects preparation level as well as at implementation level. The Programme has significantly contributed into encouraging cooperation between Estonia and Donor states. Cooperation between Estonia and Donor states has been successful and there are many new ideas about how to continue the cooperation in the future. For example, Tallinn City Government continues good cooperation with Oslo City Government.

At the Programme level, there was a fruitful and effective bilateral cooperation with Donor Programme Partner (DPP) Norwegian Environment Agency from Norway. The close cooperation has been a key factor for achieving the goals of the Programme. The Programme would have not been as successful without the cooperation with DPP. They helped to search partners and organise cooperation committee meetings, evaluate the projects etc. Close communication with DPP was particularly important during the Programme preparation and implementation phase. DPP is very skilled and has a long experience with international cooperation. The help provided by DPP was extremely valuable, relevant and appreciated.

Sustainability

In Outcome 1 public awareness and stakeholder engagement were significantly increased, ensuring a broader societal impact and supporting long-term sustainability goals. Key outcomes include the use of developed materials, methodologies, and research in education and public awareness efforts. Additionally, a maritime impact assessment framework is being created using and leveraging project- acquired knowledge. Output 1 contributed with of high-quality scientific data and methodologies to Estonia's strategic documents, plans, and methodologies. A significant focus is also placed on analyzing the pathways of 10 alien species and mapping these pathways, which serves as the foundation for Estonia's forthcoming invasive alien species pathways action plan.

The use of eDNA methods in broader monitoring is relatively expensive, but in this regard too, the Estonian Environmental Agency, which is responsible for national monitoring, plans to further develop the methods and analyze in which situations eDNA methods should be used more, which could replace repeated visits by several experts to the same areas and save experts' working time.

The sustainability of Outcome 2 climate change mitigation and adaptation project activities is best ensured. These are mainly ensured by long-term maintenance contracts and cooperation partners, maintenance plans or the position of urban gardening coordinator. In terms of cooperation and networks, several donor partners pointed out that contacts with Estonian partners have been maintained and several donor partners also have ongoing projects with Estonian partners, some even with new partners.

In Outcome 2, 34 of 79 Estonian local municipalities got climate change mitigation and adaptation plans thanks to EEA Grants. A lot of municipalities are not able to implement their action plan, as they

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don’t have enough finances in their municipalities budget. In case of suitable financing instrument, they are most interested in implementing the climate and energy action plans.

In Outcome 3 The sustainability of pilot projects is ensured by the further implementation of the expert knowledge gained during the projects, the maintenance of contact networks established with the donor country, and the ongoing management and maintenance of the pilot project outputs. The sustainability of the majority of the outputs created within the framework of the pilot projects (repair workshops, circular economy centres, circular renovation banks) requires a functioning business model, which ensures the profitability of the output over a longer period.

Outcome 1: Ecosystem resilience increased

Amount incurred: € 748,266.67

Results

Invasive alien species are a major driver of biodiversity loss. An analysis of the IUCN Red List shows that invasive alien species are the second most common threat associated with species that have gone completely extinct and are the most common threat associated with extinctions of amphibians, reptiles and mammals worldwide. There is a strong link between invasive alien species and climate change, which have ecological and economic implications. Invasive alien species enter new areas both through intentional and unintentional releases, both can have detrimental effects on the ecosystem health and functioning. Where possible, invasive species should be controlled, contained or eradicated in the affected areas. In aquatic ecosystems interception or removal of pathways are probably the most effective strategies for reducing their future impacts.

The programme delivered substantial progress in managing invasive alien species and enhancing ecosystem resilience. It strengthened understanding of the spread, impacts, and control of these species, contributing to the development of preventive and mitigation strategies. The integration of project findings into national systems and methodologies supports improved decision-making in environmental management. Innovations in monitoring and biocontrol provided practical tools for efficient species management, reducing resource intensity. Public awareness and stakeholder engagement were significantly increased, ensuring a broader societal impact and supporting long-term sustainability goals.

The projects achieved all output-level results, significantly contributing to knowledge and management of invasive species in freshwater and marine ecosystems.

Key results include the analysis of entry routes for 10 invasive alien species, enabling preventive measures to protect Estonia's environment. The potential for spread in Estonia’s climate was assessed, and control methods for three invasive crayfish species (signal, spiny cheek, and marbled crayfish) were developed and implemented across multiple freshwater locations. Over 20,000 non- native crayfish were removed from 20 water bodies, while indigenous waterweed (Elodea nuttallii) presence was analysed from 27 lakes.

A workshop and training sessions for environmental protection officials improved skills in identifying non-native crayfish and waterweed, supporting long-term species management. Public outreach included booklets, articles, ferry advertisements, and appearances on widely watched Estonian TV shows. Two academic theses advanced research on the role of European eels as biocontrol agents and the impact of fisheries on signal crayfish populations.

An innovative eDNA method, developed with a Norwegian partner, was tested to detect species in water bodies via water samples. A children's book on invasive species further enhanced public

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awareness. Collaboration with donor state partners facilitated joint results and ongoing knowledge exchange.

Public engagement ensured knowledge dissemination and fostering community involvement in environmental protection

The project on marine invasive species evaluated the carbon sequestration potential of coastal habitats, adapted vegetation restoration methods to Estonian conditions, and tested them on Prangli Island’s southern coast. It assessed the environmental and ecosystem service impacts of 14 invasive species, modeled their spread, and conducted eDNA-based monitoring in three major ports. An online tool on non-indigenous indigenous species and their impacts onto amrine environment is made publicly available. eDNA and new monitoring methods will be used for long-term in national marine monitoring programme. The findings expanded data on invasive species impacts and led to a 5-step impact assessment guide developed together with Norwegian Institute of Marine Research.

Together, these achievements have improved knowledge, raised awareness, and advanced the management of invasive species, benefiting municipalities, environmental experts, and the public. The projects’ legacy continues through national and international collaborations, innovative tools, and public resources.

Performance of projects was rated very high: all objectives were fully achieved.

High quality scientific data and methodologies are base for and contribute to Estonias strategic documents, plans and methodologies "Estonia 2035", "Climate Policy 2050", example seagrass restoration plan under EU Nature Restoration Law, and incorporating invasive species impact assessments into Estonian Marine Strategy updates. Analysis of the income pathways of 10 alien species and mapping the main income pathways is bases for the preparation of the next income pathways action plan.

Key sustainability outputs are wide use of knowledge and materials:

 teaching in general education and higher education institutions,

 raising public awareness on environmental issues and non-ingenous species,

 a uniform methodology for assessing the effects of non-ingenous species to marine ecosystems is being created, based on the knowledge gained during the project.

The specific knowledge of the donor country partner Norwegian Veterinary Institute on eDNA topics helped to achieve the goals set by the project teams in Estonia and to develop eDNA-based monitoring methodologies for new alien species at both, the University of Tartu and the Estonian University of Life Sciences. Cooperation between research institutions in similar projects is of great importance, as it increases the capacity of research institutions to develop new methodologies and create new knowledge that did not previously exist in the research institution.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

For publishing scientific articles, the implementation period was too short. It takes approximately 6 months to get an article published after all the implementation activities are completed. Fortunately, it was possible to publish the article with the help of PO, as the article was published using program management costs.

Public procurements are still an issue and needs more clarification, possibly even a training, as there were a few smaller irregularities related to that. Especially framework agreements and different eradication services ordered from private fishermen as they are not considered as employment

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agreement but as providing a service, therefore should be done as a procurement when the estimated cost exceed the threshold of public procurement.

Outcome 2: Increased ability at the local level to reduce emissions and adapt to a changing climate

Amount incurred: € 3,814,611.34

Results

To achieve GHG emissions reduction goals by 2050, it is important to raise awareness on climate change. Awareness on climate change is not as widespread and understood as more general environmental awareness. A study from 2024 about the environmental awareness of Estonian citizens indicates that awareness of climate change is relatively low compared to other environmental issues.

At the local level it is important to raise awareness how climate is changing and how to adapt to it. We had three different objectives to achieve Outcome 2. The first objective was to raise awareness starting from kindergarten. Collaboration of universities have redesigned the curricula upto the end of gymnasium.

The small grant scheme (Call 1 of SGS) of ‘Climate change mitigation and adaptation plans’ exceeded the PO-s expectations as it was very popular among local municipalities. With 10 implemented projects (Keila, Narva, Pärnu, Rakvere cities and Tartu, Pärnu, Jõgeva, Võru, Lääne and Lääne-Viru counties (6 county level and 4 municipality level plans)) 34 local municipalities received input to their local strategical documents with the compilation of a climate change mitigation and adaptation plan and to be in compliant with national and EU strategies. This plan made the local municipalities think about the actions necessary to take in the near future to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change.

With the implementation of Call 2 ‘Climate change mitigation and adaption measures’ 8 municipalities with 9 projects all together had the chance to implement activities that are necessary to take in order to adapt to and/or mitigate the effects of climate change.

Within 6 different projects’ demonstration areas for climate education and/or community gardens were built to raise awareness of the importance of soil, plants, biodiversity and harvesting, even of pollinators. These activities were implemented in kindergartens (Kohtla-Järve EE0023), schools (Viljandi EE0026), educational centres (Pernova EE0025) and public areas (Keila EE0022, Tori EE0021, Tallinn EE0024). That raises the awareness of people from a very young age to the elderlies. Pernova education centre developed 4 climate change learning programs for schools and other target groups

Restoring ruined alleyways in Põltsamaa (EE0019) or planting trees in big, mowed areas, like in Kohtla-Järve city (EE0023), is participating in mitigating the heat island effect in cities, also acting as a rainwater collectors when the trees are bigger, and preventing flooding. Together with other constructed nature-based solutions a whole public area of the singing ground in Keila City (EE0022) has been transformed into a green area with biodiverse flower beds, flower meadows, scent gardens and rain-beds, and unites the nearby areas smoothly with nature. Setting an example by the local municipality the residents can also start to implement these activities on their own land, making biodiversity more popular and common. These activities have also been implemented in other cities like Tori, Kohtla-Järve, Põltsamaa and Viljandi.

Three projects installed rainwater recovery systems to reduce flooding in the urban areas of Märjamaa (EE0018), Keila and Pernova. Using rainwater to store it and using it when draught hits, is a great example of giving back to nature what it provides.

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Drinking water was made available by constructing public drinking water taps in Tallinn (15) and Viljandi (6).

With the help of renewable energy solutions two project promotors are now more energy efficient and have reduced their CO2 emissions which also has an impact on achieving our 2030 renewable energy goals – in Kohtla-Järve installed 8 solar stations on the roofs of public buildings, in Pernova center solution using wind and solar energy with storage capacity.

The implementation of climate change adaptation activities has had a social, environmental and economic impact on various target groups and has contributed to a wider awareness. In the case of these activities, one of the biggest impacts that has already been seen is public attention. Several project implementers are sharing experiences on the maintenance of green areas, the maintenance and construction of wind and solar parks, and the implementation of general nature-based solutions. A similar impact will be seen in the years to come, as sharing experiences is not a one-off activity.

Green solutions (such as flower fields and gardens in city parks) have made urban spaces more natural and visually attractive. Project implementers have refuted the perception that natural solutions are complex and high-maintenance. Biodiversity has also been increased in urban environments by supporting insect and plant habitats. The installation of water taps in cities has received positive feedback, providing people and pets with access to drinking water, which is especially important from a climate change adaptation perspective, as extreme weather events become more frequent.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

The small grant scheme of ‘Climate change mitigation and adaptation plans’ was supposed to be a quick drafting of the plans, but in reality covid pandemic had a big effect and the war in Ukraine, both which delayed the implementing of the plans. So, for strategic documents, more time than a year would be needed to make a good, thorough and feasible plan.

The ‘Climate change mitigation and adaption measures’ call was an example of doing big things in a relevantly relatively small amount of time. Although all activities were implemented within the eligibility period it was a big challenge and took more effort from Project Promoters. As a take-away from this, calls with construction activities or those which activities are affected by climate should be announced some months earlier. That would give the promoters reassurance that if a procurement fails or is disputed, they have a buffer time to publish it again.

Public procurements for local municipalities are still a struggle, as there was at least one irregularity. For the upcoming period a training for granted projects about how to conduct procurements, should be highly recommended.

The involvement of donor partners helped to somewhat extence increase the effectiveness of the projects. In the broad sense, the role of donor partners was to share experiences and knowledge with the Estonian project teams, and this purpose was fulfilled by the donor partners excellently. Project partners and implementers agreed that the donors were an excellent addition to the project with their knowledge and experience. Even those implementers who did not directly involve donor partners in their projects had the opportunity to visit Norway and participate in the sharing of experiences. Thus, the sharing of experiences was not hindered by the fact that the donor partner was not a direct project partner.

Regarding donor partners, the biggest challenge for Estonian implementers was finding them. Since there was not much time to write the project, many did not include a donor partner because the donors did not have time to respond to the Estonian partners or to sort out the affairs in their institutions.

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Example of good practice on programme level is overbooking in the funds by supporting additional project in reserve list – this gave one more project opportunity to implement their activities. Overall effect to programme finances – was reducing the leftovers.

Outcome 3: Framework for Circular Economy strengthened

Amount incurred: € 1,559,251.67

Results

Outcome 3 focused on increasing capacity for the circular economy.

Within the framework of the project “Increasing the capacity of the circular economy”, a circular economy strategy “Circular Economy White Paper” was prepared; officials, environmental specialists, and general education schoolteachers were trained; contributions were made to raising awareness in the sector more broadly, and proposals were developed for local governments to improve the circular economy. The project was implemented in cooperation with the Norwegian research institute SINTEF, which contributed to the project with its own analysis and research capacity.

The pre-defined project (EE0013) of enhanced capacity on circular economy made it possible for all municipalities in Estonia to start with the circular economy as personal circular economy roadmaps with action plans were developed. Municipality officials were also trained with a circular economy training plan and an electronic manual created within this project. Criteria for five new categories of green public procurement were developed, which can be used by public sector procurers in their procurement process: textile products and services, design and construction of office buildings, design and construction of roads, food products and services, food vending machines, and electricity. We now have environmental criteria for public procurement in 10 categories. Practical training sessions on green public procurement were held, and guidance materials along with short instructional videos were developed.

For children, two environmental educational games were created along with tools for general education schoolteachers to address circular economy topics in schools. For the general public in Estonia, numerous awareness-raising activities took place, such as conferences, fairs, media campaigns, electronic materials, and the development of a dedicated webpage. The sub-activities of the project were diverse, contributing to various areas, including municipalities, schools, the public sector, awareness-raising, guidelines, study trips, and different events and training programs.

With the call 4 “Circular economy pilot projects” the purpose of the grant was to contribute to the development of the circular economy and the introduction of more environmentally sustainable solutions by the public sector. In the frame of this call projects, there are implemented innovative pilot projects that use circular principles and identify the effect of implementation it.

With an open call, three projects were granted to pilot circular economy ideas in local municipalities. One of the most useful solutions for the public were created by the capital city of Tallinn (EE0014), which concentrated on the creation of a reuse and repair society with 2 reuse rooms (for people to give/take reusable goods for free), 4 repair workshops (to mend different items, such as furniture, textile, wooden items and bicycles) and 2 sewing workshops, which are open for public usage.

Tartu city government (EE0017) piloted methods to prove building materials circularity usage – they developed methods for the usage of leftover materials from renovation and demolition projects. And to demonstrate it, they used circular usage building materials to construct public bicycle pavilions in four locations in the city. Also, a circular usage bank was opened for reusable construction materials. The most important goal of the project was that the principles of the circular economy are now integrated into the process of the renovation wave taking place in the city of Tartu.

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The third municipality who piloted the circular economy was Rae (EE0015) with the aim to reduce the environmental footprint of Rae municipality and to lay the foundation for the municipality to achieve zero emissions, thereby contributing to the mitigation of climate change both in Rae municipality and in Estonia in general. They measured the carbon footprint and circular economy potential of the public sector in their municipality and amongst the enterprises in Rae also. With an awareness-raising campaign, they conducted a competition for schools and kindergartens to implement innovation plans as an example for others. The innovative ideas were an installed food-sharing cabinet/fridge, an off- grid outdoor kitchen with a rainwater collection system and solar panels, a cargo bike for commuting and field trips to reduce fossil fuel transportation, a composter for biowaste, and a learning and DIY art and crafts material cabinet for sharing and waste reduction.

With the PO mid-term and final events, all municipalities had a chance to get acquainted with these solutions and get ideas on how to implement their own circular economy solutions in the future.

The results of all three projects raised the awareness of these municipalities about circular economy issues and helped to launch additional activities outside the performance framework, which have a wider benefit for local residents. The creation of circular economy points in Tallinn, the preparation of the opening of the Lilleküla circular economy center and the opening of Estonia's first circular economy bank in Tartu can be considered separate success stories of the pilot projects

The implementers of all three projects assessed the greatest value of involving a foreign partner as the opportunity to learn from Norwegian good practices on how to effectively implement activities that promote the circular economy.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

There is interest in the circular solutions, but economic restrictions, including the ban on earning income, limit the sustainability of pilot solutions. When planning the next programming period, the economic sustainability of project outputs and the need for a functioning business model should be considered more thoroughly than before. Including, if the applicant's project output requires a functioning business model due to sustainability, then direct them to prepare the application in such a way that profit-making from the output is permitted.

The implementing agency organized seminars for project promotors where all projects presented their activities and achievements was warmly welcomed by the PPs. All projects had the opportunity to hear and see what other pilot projects are implementing. The suggestion from PPs was that for a possible collaboration or to learn from each other, the meetings should have started from the beginning, not halfway through the implementation period.

Some of the impacts of works done appear only over a longer lifespan, eg system of environmentally friendly public procurements. This should promote sustainable materials and products with a longer lifespan. The potential positive impact is both economic and environmentally friendly, but it is still too early to assess.

Bilateral Outcome: Enhanced collaboration between beneficiary and donor state entities involved in the programme

Results

The Climate program in general had good results with bilateral relations, more than half of the projects implemented had a donor state partner, so 14 out of 26 projects, which considering the pandemic was a good result.

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In outcome 1 both projects are continuing their cooperation with their donor state partners from Norway (Norwegian Institute of Marine Research and Norwegian Veterinary Institute). The knowledge gained from the project has helped both countries’ specialists.

Some local municipalities had contacts from Norway before the implementation of EEA grants projects, for example Tartumaa Association of Local Authorities (EE0002) or Association of Local Governments of Lääne County (EE0006) and their cooperation will also continue after the implementation of the project.

The most satisfied PPs were the municipalities who implemented circular economy pilot projects (Tallinn, Tartu). With their visits to donor state partners, they gained valuable information and saw opportunities to implement similar activities in Estonia. Tallinn’s project visited Oslo in November 2022 and Tartu’s project visited Oslo in May 2023, all project partners were present. The circular usage bank idea in Tartu’s project came from this study-visit.

Nordic countries’ experience was used in the preparation of the circular use points and center and the goals for the promotion of the field. This is from the practices of the project's partner city Oslo as well as Oslo's own cooperation partner. Experts from the project partners were also involved, who helped to evaluate how to create the most sustainable and widely used circular use points. ¡ Involvement of partners is effective if expectations are clear for all parties and cooperation agreements are specific.

Communication with the representatives of the city of Oslo has continued both in relation to project activities and non-project topics. For example, Tallinn also plans to add reuse rooms in containers to other existing waste stations. Oslo has provided input from its own mobile container specification to procure the containers.

Pernova project also had a donor partner from Norway, they visited Kongsberg kommunale eiendom. The PP and partners received valuable information about the construction of energy-efficient buildings in Norway, the introduction of hydrogen production, and energy-efficient management of municipal facilities. The donor partner also gained knowledge from Pernova - in Pärnu, the organization of more integrated education in Pernova Loodusmaja, the new SMARTPARK classroom, the Gren combined station, whose district heating and cooling system which is the backbone of the energy system (heat, electricity and cooling, local renewable fuels and modern production equipment are produced) of the city of Pärnu, attracted the attention of Norwegians.

Other climate change awareness rising project by University of Tartu was also a great example of positive cooperation – their donor partner University of Bergen supported the latest developments in climate science and helped bring complex information to the wider society.

The cooperation with the Donor Programme Partner has been very good. DPP has helped to organize the mid-term event and consulted throughout the implementation of Programme. Direct communication has been abled in events and meetings.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

Covid pandemic influenced bilateral relations, but even with that challenge more than half of the projects had a donor state partner who contributed to the implementation of the project. During next implementing period, study trips or meet & greet events should be organized possibly before opening the calls, to make it easier for PPs to get contacts from donor states.

Before starting the project activities, it is necessary to agree with the external partner what the project implementer's expectations are and what the external partner will receive. It will also help to encourage further cooperation if we think about what the longer-term goal is for the involvement of a foreign partner and how the cooperation could continue after the end of the project.

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Some projects have faced unforeseen challenges in their activities. In Call 1 “Ecosystem resilience increased” both projects had some challenges with their bilateral activities. One of the projects planned to use chemicals for the first time in Estonia to control freshwater invasive species – similar to Norway. Their partner, the Norwegian Veterinary Institute consulted them in choosing the correct method and chemicals for eradication, but there was an unexpected obstacle – the Estonian Environmental Board didn’t give permission for conducting the chemical control in water bodies. So, the analysis was done, but it was not possible to implement the activity in this manner. This obstacle was hard to prevent as the concrete measures and chemicals were selected during the project so it would have been difficult for the Estonian Environmental Board to give their opinion about chemical eradication in advance. Project pivoted and used trapping and biocontrol instead.

Another Call 1 “Ecosystem resilience increased” project had a great cooperation with their Norwegian partner, but the contact person decided to retire and as there wasn’t enough human resources, no one took over the management of project and therefore no reports were submitted. The Norwegian Institute of Marine Research therefore resigned from the project and claimed no costs.

This was also an unforeseen obstacle and when the institution signed the partnership agreement it was impossible to foresee.

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IRREGULARITIES

Case Id Reporting level Nature of irregularity Case

opened Status Estimated final input to the FMO for cases not closed Decision

Amount of financial correction

IR 183 EE- CLIMATE- 0009

Deviation from public procurement rules/principles

07/02/202 3 Closed -

Project grant amount reduced. Amount linked to irregularity paid back/deducted from payment.

€ 448.32

IR 184 EE- CLIMATE- 0011

Deviation from public procurement rules/principles

09/12/202 2

Ongoin g 08.2024 - € 1,296.36

IR 207 EE- CLIMATE- 0011

Deviation from public procurement rules/principles

27/09/202 2

Ongoin g 08.2024 - € 1,044.90

IR 300 EE- CLIMATE- 0023

Deviation from public procurement rules/principles

14/11/202 3 Closed -

Project grant amount reduced. Amount linked to irregularity paid back/deducted from payment.

€ 39,450.00

IR 326 EE- CLIMATE- 0019

Deviation from public procurement rules/principles

10/04/202 4

Ongoin g 05.2024 - € 3,060.72

IR 327 EE- CLIMATE- 0011

Deviation from public procurement rules/principles

07/02/202 4

Ongoin g 08.2024 - € 3,943.44

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SUMMARY OF PROJECTS Number of projects contracted

Number of projects completed

Project grant contracted (EEA Grant + national co- financing)

Project grant incurred (EEA Grant + national co- financing)

Project Eligible Expenditure contracted (Includes project co-financing)

Project Eligible Expenditure incurred (Includes project co-financing)

Pre- defined 0 0 € 0.00 € 0.00 € 0.00 € 0.00

Contracte d through open calls

2 2 € 799,245.14 € 748,266.67 € 880,313.75 € 880,313.73

Contracte d through small grants scheme

0 0 € 0.00 € 0.00 € 0.00 € 0.00

Outcome 1: Ecosystem resilience increased

Total Outcome 1

2 2 € 799,245.14 € 748,266.67 € 880,313.75 € 880,313.73

Pre- defined 0 0 € 0.00 € 0.00 € 0.00 € 0.00

Contracte d through open calls

10 10 € 3,524,679.99 € 3,473,580.32 € 4,021,451.62 € 4,086,565.08

Contracte d through small grants scheme

10 10 € 400,000.00 € 341,031.02 € 401,687.60 € 391,663.25

Outcome 2: Increased ability at the local level to reduce emissions and adapt to a changing climate

Total Outcome 2

20 20 € 3,924,679.99 € 3,814,611.34 € 4,423,139.22 € 4,478,228.33

Pre- defined 1 1 € 900,000.00 € 783,843.36 € 922,169.07 € 922,168.66

Contracte d through open calls

3 3 € 900,000.00 € 775,408.31 € 912,245.07 € 912,245.07Outcome 3: Framework for Circular Economy strengthened

Contracte d through small

0 0 € 0.00 € 0.00 € 0.00 € 0.00

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grants scheme Total Outcome 3

4 4 € 1,800,000.00 € 1,559,251.67 € 1,834,414.14 € 1,834,413.73

Total programme costs (Excluding programme management costs)

26 26 € 6,523,925.13 € 6,122,129.68 € 7,137,867.11 € 7,192,955.79

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FINAL BALANCE Overview of programme expenditure

Programm e area (PA) Budget Heading EEA

Grants Total grant Programme

eligible expenditure

EEA Grants contribution

incurred

Total grant contribution

incurred

Programme co-financing

incurred

Total eligible expenditure

incurred

PA13 Programme management € 599,950.00

€ 599,950.00 € 705,823.53 € 563,005.06 € 563,005.06 € 99,353.83 € 662,358.89

PA11 Outcome 1: Ecosystem resilience increased (EEA Grants)

€ 680,000.00

€ 680,000.00 € 800,000.00 € 636,026.67 € 636,026.67 € 112,240.00 € 748,266.67

PA13 Outcome 2: Increased ability at the local level to reduce emissions and adapt to a changing climate (EEA Grants)

€ 3,242,419.6

4

€ 3,242,419.6

4

€ 3,814,611.34 € 3,242,419.64 €

3,242,419.64 € 572,191.70 € 3,814,611.34

PA13 Outcome 3: Framework for Circular Economy strengthened (EEA Grants)

€ 1,477,630.3

6

€ 1,477,630.3

6

€ 1,738,388.66 € 1,325,363.92 €

1,325,363.92 € 233,887.75 € 1,559,251.67

Total €

6,000,000.0 0

€ 6,000,000.0

0

€ 7,058,823.53 € 5,766,815.29 €

5,766,815.29 €

1,017,673.28 € 6,784,488.57

Description of budget spending

Programme management

Promotional and information activities to share experiences, expenditures related to the strengthening of bilateral relations and to foster the changes driven by climate education projects and share their results: 1) Environmental education conference was co-organized - incl. guest speker from Bergen University Museum and two climate awareness projects introduced their materials in the the workshops of conference. Oct 2024 2) Higher climate courses to decision makers by climate awareness project. Oct 2024 3) Introduction of climate projects and materials to environment education institutions under Ministry of Climate. Aug 2024 4) Introduction of climate education project to officers in ministries of Climate and Education and Research onsite with workshops in Tartu and Tallinn. Nov 2024 5) Pernova project sharing the best practice to environment education institutions for compiling a climate education teaching programme - video and onsite training. Dec 2024. 6) Additional printing of Pernova climate education project's climate education books for teachers. Implementing agencies expenditures were related to the approval and transfer of payments and transfer of payments to Project Promoters, also projects’ monitoring and onsite checks and Communication activities (articles, photographer service - best results were photographed). Expenditures were also related to bilateral activities, such as visiting other beneficiary countries and exchanging experiences.

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Outcome 1: Ecosystem resilience increased (EEA Grants)

Projects’ expenditures in the second half of 2024 were related to donor partner expenditures, invasive species eradication costs that were on hold because of irregularities, project management and expert’s costs, analysis of invasive species, writing reports, business trip costs, etc

Outcome 2: Increased ability at the local level to reduce emissions and adapt to a changing climate (EEA Grants)

Projects’ expenditures in the second half of 2024 were related to different construction works that were done before 30th of April, 2024, but the disbursement claims were put on hold before the final report of the project was accepted. The works included final landscaping, planting, etc; communication costs, workshops, sowing native seeds, also project’s final events (publicity) and project management costs.

Outcome 3: Framework for Circular Economy strengthened (EEA Grants)

Expenditures incurred were related to project management costs, project’s final events; studies; communication costs; equipment for re-use centres.

Calculation of the final balance

EEA Grants Total reported eligible expenditure of the programme Total eligible expenditure incurred € 6,784,488.57 (-) Total (national) programme co-financing incurred (15.00 % rate) € 1,017,673.28 (=) Total grant contribution incurred (85.00 % grant rate) € 5,766,815.29 Amounts to be deducted from the total grant contribution1

(-) Total advance and interim payments to the programme from the Donors € 5,772,167.36 (-) Any co-financing from sources other than the Donors/national2 € 0.00 (-) Total interest earned reported € 48,950.18 Final balance

1 Any funds reimbursed from Project Promoters to the Programme Operator, not paid to other projects or reimbursed to the FMO (ref. Article 9.4.1(b)(iv) of the Regulation should be reported as negative adjustments in the Financial report for the last reporting period (Annex 1). In this case, such funds will be subtracted from the "Total eligible expenditure incurred" of the programme. 2 For example, financing from EU structural funds or other EU sources, from the Swiss contribution, etc. This row includes only the financing incurred during the programme eligibility period.

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(=) Final balance payable to the Programme Operator € 0.00 (=) Final balance payable to the Donors € 54,302.25

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ANNEXES The Annexes are intended for internal use only and will not be published.

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Annex 1: Financial report for the last reporting period

Programme eligible expenditure as per

Programme Agreement

Programme eligible expenditure after the

flexibility measures have been applied

Programme management € 705,823.53 € 705,823.53 Outcome 1: Ecosystem resilience increased (EEA Grants) € 800,000.00 € 800,000.00

Outcome 2: Increased ability at the local level to reduce emissions and adapt to a changing climate (EEA Grants)

€ 3,753,000.00 € 3,814,611.34

Outcome 3: Framework for Circular Economy strengthened (EEA Grants)

€ 1,800,000.00 € 1,738,388.66

Total € 7,058,823.53 € 7,058,823.53

Part A - Statement of actual expenditure incurred and interest earned

Incurred expenditure - summary Start date of incurred expenditure period 01/07/2024 End date of incurred expenditure period 30/04/2025

Previously incurred

expenditure

Incurred this period Total to date Total Budget Available

balance

Eligible expenditure € 5,977,625.03 € 806,863.54 € 6,784,488.57 € 7,058,823.53 € 274,334.96

EEA Grants € 5,080,981.27 € 685,834.02 € 5,766,815.29 € 6,000,000.00 € 233,184.71 Co-financing € 896,643.76 € 121,029.52 € 1,017,673.28 € 1,058,823.53 € 41,150.25

Incurred expenditure - details Title: Programme management

Previously incurred

expenditure

Incurred this period Total to date Budget Available

balance

Eligible expenditure € 438,190.13 € 224,168.76 € 662,358.89 € 705,823.53 € 43,464.64

Brief description of actual expenditure incurred

Several EE-CLIMATE programme results and awareness rising activities were done on this period. Implementing agencies expenditures were related to the approval and transfer of payments and transfer of payments to Project Promoters, also projects’ monitoring and onsite checks and Communication activities (articles, photographer service - best results were photographed). Expenditures were also related to bilateral activities, such as visiting other beneficiary countries and exchanging experiences.

Eligible expenditures Eligible expenditure - EUR

€ 224,168.76 Total

€ 224,168.76

Title: Outcome 1: Ecosystem resilience increased (EEA Grants)

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Previously incurred

expenditure

Incurred this period Total to date Budget Available

balance

Eligible expenditure € 610,701.04 € 137,565.63 € 748,266.67 € 800,000.00 € 51,733.33

Brief description of actual expenditure incurred for the outcome

Projects are closed. Projects’ expenditures in the second half of 2024 were related to donor partner expenditures, invasive species eradication costs that were on hold because of irregularities, project management and expert’s costs, analysis of invasive species, writing reports, business trip costs, etc

Eligible expenditures

Project Eligible

expenditure - EUR

EE-CLIMATE-0011 € 57,559.69 EE-CLIMATE-0012 € 80,005.94 Total

€ 137,565.63

Title: Outcome 2: Increased ability at the local level to reduce emissions and adapt to a changing climate (EEA Grants)

Previously incurred

expenditure

Incurred this period Total to date Budget Available

balance

Eligible expenditure € 3,553,270.28 € 261,341.06 € 3,814,611.34 € 3,814,611.34 € 0.00

Brief description of actual expenditure incurred for the outcome

Projects are closed. Projects’ expenditures in the second half of 2024 were related to different construction works that were done before 30th of April, 2024, but the disbursement claims were put on hold before the final report of the project was accepted. The works included final landscaping, planting, etc; communication costs, workshops, sowing native seeds, also project’s final events (publicity) and project management costs.

Eligible expenditures

Project Eligible

expenditure - EUR

EE-CLIMATE-0016 € 119,125.56 EE-CLIMATE-0026 € 30,002.11 EE-CLIMATE-0025 € 48,554.95 EE-CLIMATE-0019 € 63,658.44 Total

€ 261,341.06

Title: Outcome 3: Framework for Circular Economy strengthened (EEA Grants) Previously incurred

expenditure

Incurred this period Total to date Budget Available

balance

Eligible expenditure € 1,375,463.58 € 183,788.09 € 1,559,251.67 € 1,738,388.66 € 179,136.99

Brief description of actual expenditure incurred for the outcome

Projects are ended. Expenditures incurred were related to project management costs, project’s final events; studies; communication costs; equipment for re-use centres.

Eligible expenditures

Project Eligible

expenditure - EUR

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EE-CLIMATE-0014 € 91,342.37 EE-CLIMATE-0015 € 24,073.72 EE-CLIMATE-0017 € 68,372.00 Total

€ 183,788.09

Interest Earned Interest generated on accounts established by the Programme Operator for funds intended for regranting for 2024

EEA Grants Total € 0.00 € 0.00

Interest generated on accounts established by the Programme Operator for funds intended for regranting for 2025 (from 1 January until the submission of the Final Programme Report or until an earlier date if reporting until the Final Programme Report date is not possible)3

The date until which the interest is reported for 2025: 31/01/2025 EEA Grants Total

€ 0.00 € 0.00 Cumulative Interest generated on accounts established by the Programme Operator for funds intended for regranting

EEA Grants Total € 48,950.18 € 48,950.18

Comments No interest was earned.

3 In line with Article 9.4.5 of the Regulations, any interest earned on the bank account of the Programme Operator between the date of the Final Programme Report and the reimbursement date (i.e. final balance payment either to the Donors or to the Beneficiary State) will also be included in the reimbursement. The FMO will contact the Certifying Authority before making the payment or issuing a debit note to request information on the remaining amount of the accumulated interest.

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Programme Operator

Full legal name: Ministry of Climate - Estonia (EE)   Programme Operator signature   I certify that I am duly authorised to sign this financial report for the last reporting period and the final balance of the programme. I have thoroughly reviewed the actual expenditure incurred declared in Part A and the calculation of the final balance of the programme, and confirm that the information provided is accurate. I confirm that this programme is carried out as described in the Programme Agreement and that the incurred expenditure is correctly represented.   Overall implementation status (including milestones):   Projects were finished on the first half of 2024. Programme management were used for awareness activities that supported and maintained the programme and its projects' aims.  

Question Answer Comment

Management and control systems of the Programme Operator set up fulfilling the general principles set out in the Regulation and approved by the National Focal Point (Art 5.7)

Yes

The setup of management and control system for the programme started in 2019. The compliance audit of the management and control system of the EE-Climate programme has started in April 2020 and finished 13 July 2020.

Separate interest-bearing bank accounts dedicated to the funds intended for regranting established and maintained (Art 5.6.1 (m))

Yes Responsibility of CA.

Information and publicity obligations fulfilled (Art 3.3) Yes

EE-CLIMATE Programme webpage is operated by the webpage of Ministry of the Climate. Information about the open calls can be found on the webpage of Implementing Agency.

Monitoring and verifications conducted to ensure quality and/or regularity of implementation (Art 5.6.1 (g) and Art 5.6.2)

Yes

Monitoring has been carried out with every payment claim for every project and on-site monitoring visits (check-ups) have been done for 13 projects.

Annual monitoring of a sample of projects conducted (Art 5.6.1 (i)) Yes

All projects have reported their final project reports and these were checked by Impementing Agency.

Project-specific statistical data is entered and up to date in the reporting database (Art 5.6.1 (s))

Yes Both E-toetus and Grace have been updated with the latest information.

Special conditions and Programme- specific rules set out in the programme agreement fulfilled (Art 5.6.1 (x))

N/A There are no programme-specific rules set out in the programme agreement.

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All irregularities, their investigation and any remedies taken reported (Art 5.6.1 (v))

Yes All occurred irregularities are reported

  For the Programme Operator

Signed in ................................. on ................

......................................................................

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Certification of actual expenditure incurred and co-financing

Start date of incurred expenditure period 01/07/2024 End date of incurred expenditure period 30/04/2025 Actual expenditure incurred this period € 806,863.54 Co-financing committed to date € 1,017,673.28 Co-financing for incurred expenditure paid € 1,017,673.28 Interest earned 2024 € 0.00 Interest earned 2025 € 0.00   In relation to the Financial report for the last reporting period and the calculation of the final balance of the programme, the Certifying Authority hereby certifies that: (i) the summary of eligible expenditure submitted by the Programme Operator is in full conformity with the supporting documents; (ii) the supporting documents have been examined and found to be authentic, correct and accurate; (iii) the summary of eligible expenditure is based on verifiable accounting which complies with generally accepted accounting principles and methods; (iv) the summary of eligible expenditure falls within eligible expenditure under the Regulation for the implementation of the EEA / Norwegian Financial Mechanisms 2014-2021; (v) the summary of expenditure is incurred as part of the implementation of the Programme in accordance with the Programme Agreement; (vi) sufficient audit trail exists; (vii) co-financing committed to date has been made available; (viii) co-financing in relation to incurred expenditure has been paid; (ix) when relevant, that the interest earned at Programme Operator account is correct.   For the Certifying Authority

Signed in ................................. on ................

......................................................................

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Annex 2: Communications

Best projects

Project title Project code Project promoter

Confirm the PLI is updated in GrACE

Creation of pilot areas for nature-based solutions to increase biodiversity in Tori Municipality

EE- CLIMATE -0021

Tori Municipality (EE) Yes

The transition of civic amenity sites into reuse and repair centres EE- CLIMATE -0014

Strategic Centre of Tallinn (Tallinn City EE)

Yes

Creating a Pernova Climate Education demonstration area "Smart Park" /Pernova kliimahariduse näidisala "" SMART PARK" loomine

EE- CLIMATE -0025

Pernova Educational Centre (EE)

Yes

Close-to-nature solutions at Keila Song Festival Grounds / Looduslähedased lahendused Keila lauluväljakul

EE- CLIMATE -0022

Keila City Government (EE) Yes

Eradication of aquatic invasive species in Estonian freshwaters / Invasiivsete võõrliikide tõrje Eesti magevetes

EE- CLIMATE -0011

Estonian University of Life Sciences (EE)

Yes

Communication activities

To foster the changes driven by climate education projects and share their results, several communication activities were organized by the Ministry:

1) Environmental education conference was co-organized - incl. guest speker from Bergen University Museum and two climate awareness projects introduced their materials in the the workshops of conference. Oct 2024

2) Higher climate courses to decision makers by climate awareness project. Oct 2024

3) Introduction of climate projects and materials to environment education institutions under Ministry of Climate. Aug 2024

4) Introduction of climate education project to officers in ministries of Climate and Education and Research onsite with workshops in Tartu and Tallinn. Nov 2024

5) Pernova project sharing the best practice to environment education institutions for compiling a climate education teaching programme - video and onsite training. Dec 2024.

6) Additional printing of Pernova climate education project's climate education books for teachers.

Alltogether 4 television shows presented 6 EEA grants projects.

Proffessional photos were made from all physical infrastructure projects.

5 new articles about project results in online media on 2024.

18 social media coverage in 2024 (FB and Instagram).

2 #OurStories videoclips were published on Programme website and FB-page

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European Economic Area (EEA) Grants 2014-2021 | Ministry of Climate

Project stories

2

Media coverage

Television show - Summer TV “Elamusi täis Eesti” (Estonia full of emotions) has presented 3 of our Call II projects:

 Close-to-nature solutions at Keila Song Festival Grounds

 Restoration and renovation of the green infrastructure alleys of the town of Põltsamaa to alleviate the urban heat island (video streaming from 8:20)

 Creating a Pernova Climate Education demonstration area "Smart Park"

Television show "Jälg" (environmental television show) has presented 2 of our Call I projects and 1 of our Call II projects:

 Eradication of aquatic invasive species in Estonian freshwaters

 Impacts of invasive alien species and climate change on marine ecosystems in Estonia

 Close-to-nature solutions at Keila Song Festival Grounds

Published articles about some of the best examples of implemented projects for a wider public with simple wording so that everybody could understand the benefit of the actions taken with these projects:

1. All press-releases and articles are published on EIC website www.kik.ee:

1. January 10th, 2022 – an advertisement by EIC in the newspaper Eesti Päevaleht about the opening of the Call III “Raising awareness on climate change”.

1. January 10th, 2022 – a press release by EIC about the opening of the Call III – “Universities and research institutions have an opportunity to raise awareness on climate change among children”.

1. April 18th, 2022 – an article by EIC in the newspaper Postimees “Why is it important to preserve biological biodiversity in the city?”.

1. April 18th, 2022 - a press release by EIC about the opening of the Call II – “EIC supports local municipalities to cope with Climate change”.

1. June 16th, 2022 - a press release by EIC about the results of the Call III – “University of Tartu will raise awareness on climate change”.

1. October 19th, 2022 - a press release by EIC about the results of the Call IV “Circular Economy pilot projects” – “An example for everybody! Local municipalities are heading towards circular economy with bold solutions”.

1. November 7th, 2022 - a press release by EIC about the results of the Call II – “Green roofs, community gardens and harvesting rainwater – seven local municipalities are going to mitigate climate change”.

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1. 3 articles in papers (Postimees, 30.05.2023):

1. https://roheline.postimees.ee/7782153/poltsamaa-linn-leevendab-rohelusega-linnasudame- kuumasaari (The city of Põltsamaa alleviates heat island effects with greenery)

1. https://roheline.postimees.ee/7782150/pelgu-uhisaiaga-luuakse-linnaelanikele-roheline- linnaruum (A green urban space is created for the citizens with the Pelgu allotment garden)

1. https://roheline.postimees.ee/7782129/tori-valla-elurikkuse-suurendamine-on-kogukonna- kokkukasvamise-lugu (Increasing biodiversity in Tori municipal is a story of growing together as a community)

1. 3 Articles in papers (Postimees, 5.06.2023):

 “Keila lauluväljak saab looduslähedase kuue nii välimuselt kui ka olemuselt” (Keila song- festival ground shall have a nature-based outfit both in appearance and in nature);

 “Kohtla-Järve suurendab linnaruumis elurikkust” (Kohtla-Järve is increasing biodiversity in urban areas);

 “Pärnusse tuleb Eesti esimene kliimahariduse näidisala ja taastuvenergial toimiv õuesõppeklass” (The first model area for climate education and renewable energy outdoor study-class in Estonia will be created in Pärnu).

1. 5 articles in Delfi online media, November 2024:

1. Renewed Keila songfestival grounds with nature-based solutions is well adapted: Looduslähedaste lahendustega uuenenud Keila lauluväljak on hästi omaks võetud - Delfi

1. Pernova SmartPark teaches everything concerning climate change: Pernova SmartPark õpetab kõike kliimamuutustega seonduvat - Delfi

1. Circular economy centres are inviting to restore repair and reuse with the help of a master: Ringmajanduskeskused kutsuvad meistrite käe all parandama, restaureerima ja korduskasutama - Delfi

1. Tori municipality is looking for solutions for climate change together with the community: Tori valla elurikkuse projekt otsib koos kogukonnaga lahendusi kliimamuutuste mõjudele - Delfi

1. The city of Põltsamaa is continuing the restoration of alleys and renewal of green infrastructure: Põltsamaa linn jätkab alleede taastamist ja rohetaristu uuendamist - Delfi

Social media coverage 2024:

 Instagram

 14.03.2024: 10% of waste in Estonia comes from the Construction sector: https://www.instagram.com/p/C4fyUK_tjS9/?fbclid=IwY2xjawHHtXxleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHQft 5pbY9xnUo02KS-PvUwiuHkx7FxRpMhNdcNYczSojSmsxhHHKt76LEg_aem_TC- Cqbq0GLxjJCWArW7s6A (Reach 261)

 24.05.2024 the new Singing festival ground in Keila is ready: https://www.instagram.com/p/C7WWP7wNudd/?fbclid=IwY2xjawHHr_xleHRuA2FlbQIxMAAB HS96Xk37Or8T08a0aLgctKJOBvJzpzmwYmQny9B9ZtfUl8ZRTAoVRGVz_w_aem_afrnvJa- 8lidrW36N8XX6w (Reach 286)

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 Facebook

 1.04.2024 Circular Economy in everyday life means practical things: https://www.facebook.com/KeskkonnainvesteeringuteKeskus/posts/pfbid0BTheDUZuUG6YkH KAFmV1vkJitUom9nNekCq6hMWssVF2aY9NTnYaaHGXVp6fW6JGl (Reach 476)

 8.04.2024 Restored windows are beautiful and last for a long time: https://www.facebook.com/KeskkonnainvesteeringuteKeskus/posts/pfbid02eqiz7FGbTnQnqD vGyy51skcQm7DYL7Y1NBcC6cRVeZC5vUypcsFJBQKCYPVczcacl (Reach – 504)

 15.05.2024 EEA grants implemented projects: https://www.facebook.com/KeskkonnainvesteeringuteKeskus/posts/pfbid02FJVJETgt5MzEnn Do7rhU29EFVSw4co7shHcCjJbGSEgMQrLFqb35VSx1TvXhsK57l (Reach 932)

 15.05.2024 EEA grants implemented projects: https://www.facebook.com/reel/738021881744471 (Reach 247)

 22.05.2024 the new Singing festival ground in Keila is ready: https://www.facebook.com/KeskkonnainvesteeringuteKeskus/posts/pfbid0hsE4JvPUwrxY5KW ixTpYJCkYbWFzNpWzz7xVB2jb1bdE71PNpmAnqp5zBhSW9W1nl (Reach 1155)

 14.06.2024 We went to visit the outdoor learning class in Pernova Nature house: https://www.facebook.com/KeskkonnainvesteeringuteKeskus/posts/pfbid02w7jfdsZNT 4Jjgq2w5rg9LSdow18aBDCWmRA2G6TLzgCRxgQSpqDeDSwE1niJGAJQl (Reach – 800)

 16.10.2024 Public announcement for getting new ideas for EEA grants new period: https://www.facebook.com/KeskkonnainvesteeringuteKeskus/posts/pfbid0b13cbzdC7Dot6u7h GHCMiRB2ZEk4t1cnKXP2u7FihapLh9hmuLJE9EGTeEAn1gkQl (Reach 397)

 23.10.2024 The Circular Usage Centre in Lilleküla: https://www.facebook.com/KeskkonnainvesteeringuteKeskus/posts/pfbid02GyUtryGtNu2zxak 4jUR8gVzDeX8m6njeionhEnHdYHjeQpd8bfscuUAa2bFzSAvl (Reach 1578)

 24.10.2024 The bicycle pavilions in Tartu (Wooden architecture competition): https://www.facebook.com/KeskkonnainvesteeringuteKeskus/posts/pfbid0268k9MftDqvFfSoH wARKsswJwJRxpg6zvnxMfTspEMxz3MrhZkym5H5cJvJmGveMol (Reach 587)

 8.11.2024 The bicycle pavilions in Tartu (Wooden architecture competition): https://www.facebook.com/KeskkonnainvesteeringuteKeskus/posts/pfbid0pJizwHDoouAHLz5 A8X4UbmuStwqSrcUCeGhVN6Cjia1vU4PkjeDGZVKCkjJMoJWVl (Reach 440)

 7.11.2024 Introduction of TV Show - Keila Signing festival ground nature based solutions and ecosystem resilience projects https://www.facebook.com/kliimaministeerium/posts/pfbid09ECrcvkYKWVtG4 mUbN8i8m9bujw9P3ruKYNV5AH1tLPzpskA9fJAMCvaZGyEKcnSl (Reach 527)

 6.09.2024 Invitation to Pelguaia opening https://www.facebook.com/kliimaministeerium/posts/pfbid0316CPCYzH3H2Y S5BxoeHDyqPbXCCLwiZR5bcnzQF67jNkMr7XBXXDcyuXuCMX6JeQl (Reach 1049)

 7.05.2024 Live! Participating link to Climate seminar to Local Governments https://www.facebook.com/kliimaministeerium/posts/pfbid03sijsWQB87PDkX4L5Wdncwh4rtLj BTiBeKFEeikZ4rswmxzdVhma6ERbgNYo1Sd7l (Reach 1995)

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 7.05.2024 FB event Climate seminar to Local Governments https://www.facebook.com/events/426036930159610 (Reach not available)

 31.01.2025 #Ourstories videoclip about Keila singing festival grounds restoration with nature- based solutions https://www.facebook.com/kliimaministeerium/posts/pfbid02d99F7XCMzHoA5YwtGDYYGMP ApuoBF7PnFJWjp5BAekSr1sYDLAuWHS2iKKPAT83zl (Reach 2360)

 30.01.2025 #Ourstories videoclip about work with indigenous species https://www.facebook.com/kliimaministeerium/posts/pfbid02AmDby7UWctuzPwgbhxfH9vj2vW 287UDVv7R2Zuomj56ybCLJwXoWRfaTMYfh5WJAl (Reach 1382)

Website and social media

Link to programme website Total number of page views in the reporting year 2024

https://kliimaministeerium.ee/en/mini... 670

Platform Specific link or handle for the account Number of posts published in the reporting year 2024

Number of followers

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/kliimaministeerium 8 11000

Visuals

All the EE-CLIMATE photos and videos can be found on EEA Library https://eealibrary.org/menu/100-2014- 2021?Country=109&page=1&Programmes=Climate%20Change%20Mitigation%20and%20A daptation

EE0025 – Creating a Pernova Climate Education demonstration area "Smart Park" - All assets - EEA & Norway Grants media library

EE0019- Restoration and renovation of the green infrastructure alleys of the town of Põltsamaa to alleviate the urban heat island – All assets - EEA & Norway Grants media library

EE0021 - Creation of pilot areas for nature-based solutions to increase biodiversity in Tori Municipality - All assets - EEA & Norway Grants media library and All assets - EEA & Norway Grants media library and All assets - EEA & Norway Grants media library

EE0024 - The Pelgu allotment garden construction and follow-up activities in urban gardening - All assets - EEA & Norway Grants media library

EE0014 - The transition of civic amenity sites into reuse and repair centres - All assets - EEA & Norway Grants media library

EE0022 - Close-to-nature solutions at Keila Song Festival Grounds - All assets - EEA & Norway Grants media library

EE0026 - Climate change mitigation and adaptation activities in Viljandi town - All assets - EEA & Norway Grants media library

EE0017 - CIRCULAR RENOVATION IN TARTU - All assets - EEA & Norway Grants media library

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Annex 3: Evaluation report

Title Date of report Website link to the evaluation Upload a copy of the report

EE-CLIMATE 30/10/2024 https://kliimaministeerium.ee/en/mini... EE-CLIMATE programme evaluation Executive summary.pdf

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Annex 4: Final results

Objective: Climate change mitigated and vulnerability to climate change reduced  € 7,058,823.53  € 6,784,488.57 Outcome 1: Ecosystem resilience increased

Achievements until end of the programmeIndicator

Unit of measureme

nt

Baselin e value

Previous achievement

value Numerato r

Denominato r

Achieveme nt value

Target value

Briefly comment on significant differences between achievement

values and target values Number of regions with pressure on indigenous species

Cumulative number 20 0 (APR 2023) - - 0 0 -

Number of marine regions with climate regulation services improved

Cumulative number 0 1 (APR 2023) - - 3 3 -

Output 1.1: Invasive alien species impact and pathways analysed Achievements until end of the

programmeIndicator Unit of

measureme nt

Baselin e value

Previous achievement

value Numerato r

Denominato r

Achieveme nt value

Target value

Briefly comment on significant differences between achievement

values and target values

Number of invasive alien species whose pathways are analysed

Cumulative number 0 37 (IFR 2024) - - 37 10

Target value changed – University of Tartu (UT) 27, Estonian University of Life Sciences (EULS) 10

Number of invasive species analysed for impact

Cumulative number 0 14 (IFR 2024) - - 14 8 Achievement from marine

ecosystem (UT) Output 1.2: Measures to reduce invasive species implemented

Achievements until end of the programmeIndicator

Unit of measureme

nt

Baselin e value

Previous achievement

value Numerato r

Denominato r

Achieveme nt value

Target value

Briefly comment on significant differences between achievement

values and target values Number of localities where alien species have been targeted

Cumulative number 0 20 (IFR 2024) - - 20 20 -

Number of invasive species combated

Cumulative number 0 3 (IFR 2024) - - 3 4

Elodea nutatalli was not confirmed present in EST, therefore not combated

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Number of professional staff trained Cumulative number 0 40 (IFR 2024) - - 40 30 EULS 30, UT 10

Gender Female - - 0 - - 0 - - Male - - 0 - - 0 - - Not specified - - 40 - - 40 - -

Output 1.3: Restoration of carbon-sequestering marine habitats piloted Achievements until end of the

programmeIndicator Unit of

measureme nt

Baselin e value

Previous achievement

value Numerato r

Denominato r

Achieveme nt value

Target value

Briefly comment on significant differences between achievement

values and target values Number of habitats that sequester and store blue carbon restored

Cumulative number 0 1 (IFR 2024) - - 1 1 -

Outcome 2: Increased ability at the local level to reduce emissions and adapt to a changing climate Achievements until end of the

programmeIndicator Unit of

measureme nt

Baselin e value

Previous achievement

value Numerato r

Denominato r

Achieveme nt value

Target value

Briefly comment on significant differences between achievement

values and target values

Number of people self-reporting increased awareness on climate adaptation and mitigation

Cumulative number 0 0 (APR 2022) - - 20,500 10,000

2% more from Estonian population (from 81% to 83% in 2 years) consider them-selves as more aware on climate adaption and mitigation. The survey was made amongst people from 15-74 years.

Number of municipalities supported to come into compliance with national or EU mitigation/adaptation strategies

Cumulative number 0 34 (IFR 2024) - - 34 6

6 county level and 4 municipality level plans = 34 municipalities

Output 2.1: Local level climate change mitigation and adaptation plans developed Achievements until end of the

programmeIndicator Unit of

measureme nt

Baselin e value

Previous achievement

value Numerato r

Denominato r

Achieveme nt value

Target value

Briefly comment on significant differences between achievement

values and target values

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Number of local level energy and climate change mitigation and adaptation plans developed

Cumulative number 0 10 (IFR 2024) - - 10 6 -

Output 2.2: Mitigation and adaptation measures implemented Achievements until end of the

programmeIndicator Unit of

measureme nt

Baselin e value

Previous achievement

value Numerato r

Denominato r

Achieveme nt value

Target value

Briefly comment on significant differences between achievement

values and target values Number of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures implemented

Cumulative number 0 21 (IFR 2024) - - 21 6 6 county level and 4

municipality level plans

Output 2.3: Increased public awareness on climate change Achievements until end of the

programmeIndicator Unit of

measureme nt

Baselin e value

Previous achievement

value Numerato r

Denominato r

Achieveme nt value

Target value

Briefly comment on significant differences between achievement

values and target values Number of people reached by general awareness-raising activities

Cumulative number 0 303,903 (IFR

2024) - - 303,903 10,000 -

Number of schools taking part in climate change education programmes supported by the programme.

Cumulative number 0 94 (IFR 2024) - - 143 30

143 Schools took part in the education programmes (143 out of total 501 schools in EST)

Outcome 3: Framework for Circular Economy strengthened Achievements until end of the

programmeIndicator Unit of

measureme nt

Baselin e value

Previous achievement

value Numerato r

Denominato r

Achieveme nt value

Target value

Briefly comment on significant differences between achievement

values and target values Estonian Government is in compliance with the EU strategy for Circular Economy

Binary No Yes (IFR 2024) - - Yes Yes -

Output 3.1: Enhanced capacity on Circular Economy Achievements until end of the

programmeIndicator Unit of

measureme nt

Baselin e value

Previous achievement

value Numerato r

Denominato r

Achieveme nt value

Target value

Briefly comment on significant differences between achievement

values and target values

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Strategy on Circular Economy completed Binary No Yes (IFR

2024) - - Yes Yes -

Number of professionals trained on Circular Economy

Cumulative number 0 100 (IFR

2024) - - 100 100

Pre-defined project carried out 5 trainings in different regions, where 100 professionals were trained

Gender Female - - 0 - - 0 - - Male - - 0 - - 0 - - Not specified - - 100 - - 100 - -

Number of categories for Green Public Procurement developed

Cumulative number 0 5 (IFR 2024) - - 5 10

5 categories were developed before the project implementation and 5 with the project

Number of people reached by awareness raising campaigns

Cumulative number 0 200,000 (IFR

2024) - - 200,000 10,000

The media campaign included TV, radio, social media, outdoor advertising, screens in public transportation and it reached at least 200 000 different people.

Number of schools participating in Green Schools Competition

Cumulative number 0 36 (IFR 2024) - - 36 30

36 schools registered, 20 submitted their video for the competition

Output 3.2: Measures for Circular Economy implemented Achievements until end of the

programmeIndicator Unit of

measureme nt

Baselin e value

Previous achievement

value Numerato r

Denominato r

Achieveme nt value

Target value

Briefly comment on significant differences between achievement

values and target values

Number of circular economy pilot measures implemented

Cumulative number 0 2 (IFR 2024) - - 3 4

The budget was limited and only 3 projects were granted and all 3 of them were implemented.

Bilateral Outcome: Enhanced collaboration between beneficiary and donor state entities involved in the programme

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Achievements until end of the programmeIndicator

Unit of measureme

nt

Baselin e value

Previous achievement

value Numerato r

Denominato r

Achieveme nt value

Target value

Briefly comment on significant differences between achievement

values and target values

Level of trust between cooperating entities in beneficiary states and donor states

Scale 1-7

6.63, Based on the survey carried out on

behalf of the FMO

6.94 (APR 2023) - - 6.94

4.50, Target is

≥4.5, and an

increase on the

baseline value

Value from April 2023

Level of satisfaction with the partnerships Scale 1-7

6.61, Based on the survey carried out on

behalf of the FMO

6.75 (APR 2023) - - 6.75

4.50, Target is

≥4.5, and an

increase on the

baseline value

Value from April 2023

Share of cooperating organisations that apply the knowledge acquired from bilateral partnerships

Percentage N/A 75.00 % (APR 2023) 6 8 75.00 % 50.00 % -

Bilateral Output 1: Cooperation between beneficiary and donor state entities supported Achievements until end of the

programmeIndicator Unit of

measureme nt

Baselin e value

Previous achievement

value Numerato r

Denominato r

Achieveme nt value

Target value

Briefly comment on significant differences between achievement

values and target values

Number of training courses organised by donor state and beneficiary state entities

Cumulative number 0 26 (IFR 2024) - - 26 10

Projects had all together 26 training courses, including PO organized trainings

Number of projects involving cooperation with a donor state partner

Cumulative number 0 14 (IFR 2024) - - 14 5 All together 14 projects

had donor state partners

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Annex 5: Contracted projects

Project code Project title Project Promoter Implementatio

n modality Outcom e

Number of donor project partners

Project grant contracted (EEA Grant + national co- financing)

Project grant incurred (EEA Grant + national co- financing)

Project contract status

EE- CLIMATE -0011

Eradication of aquatic invasive species in Estonian freshwaters / Invasiivsete võõrliikide tõrje Eesti magevetes

Estonian University of Life Sciences (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 1 1 € 399,745.14 € 350,456.70 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0012

Impacts of invasive alien species and climate change on marine ecosystems in Estonia / Invasiivsete võõrliikide ja kliimamuutuste mõju Eesti mereökosüsteemidele

Tartu University (EE) Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 1 1 € 399,500.00 € 397,809.97 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0022

Close-to-nature solutions at Keila Song Festival Grounds / Looduslähedased lahendused Keila lauluväljakul

Keila City Government (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 0 € 606,829.17 € 606,829.17 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0016

Climate change education to promote climate action Tartu University (EE) Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 1 € 499,800.00 € 497,061.64 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0019

Restoration and renovation of the green infrastructure alleys of the town of Põltsamaa to alleviate the urban heat island

Municipality of Põltsamaa (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 0 € 378,420.00 € 370,044.97 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0024

The Pelgu allotment garden construction and follow-up activities in urban gardening

Tallinn Urban Environment and Public Works Department (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 0 € 368,976.33 € 368,976.24 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0025

Creating a Pernova Climate Education demonstration area "Smart Park" /Pernova kliimahariduse näidisala "" SMART PARK" loomine

Pernova Educational Centre (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 1 € 351,172.49 € 351,172.49 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0023

Climate change adaptation activities in Kohtla-Järve Kohtla-Järve City Government (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 0 € 306,297.50 € 266,311.74 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0020

Construction of Drinking Water Taps

Tallinn Urban Environment and Public Works Department (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 0 € 299,464.56 € 299,464.56 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0018

Establishment of a rainwater recovery system in the Metsanurga area / Metsanurga piirkonna sademevee taaskasutussüsteemi rajamine

Märjamaa Municipality (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 0 € 298,379.75 € 298,379.32 Complete

d

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EE- CLIMATE -0021

Creation of pilot areas for nature-based solutions to increase biodiversity in Tori Municipality Tori Municipality (EE) Call / Small

Grants Scheme Outcome 2 0 € 215,339.44 € 215,339.44 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0026

Climate change mitigation and adaptation activities in Viljandi town

Viljandi city government (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 0 € 200,000.75 € 200,000.75 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0004

Climate change mitigation and adaptation plan in Narva City

Narva City Government City Economic Board (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 1 € 50,000.00 € 48,903.94 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0009

Rakvere Climate change mitigation and adaptation plan "Climate Neutral Rakvere 2035"

Rakvere City Government (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 0 € 50,000.00 € 16,867.96 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0002

Tartu County Climate change mitigation and adaptation plan

Tartumaa Association of Local Authorities (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 2 € 45,000.00 € 44,854.59 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0003

Pärnumaa Local Municipalities' common Climate change mitigation and adaptation plan

The Association of Local Authorities of Pärnu County (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 1 € 44,595.00 € 41,855.24 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0007

Lääne-Virumaa Climate change mitigation and adaptation plan

Lääne-Viru Association of Local Authorities (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 1 € 44,235.00 € 42,747.26 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0005

Climate change mitigation and adaptation plan in Pärnu City 2030

Pärnu City Municipality (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 1 € 43,744.32 € 42,183.70 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0008

Võru County Climate change mitigation and adaptation plan

Võrumaa Association of Local Authorities (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 1 € 39,951.00 € 31,469.31 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0010

Jõgevamaa Climate change mitigation and adaptation plan

Jõgeva Municipality (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 0 € 36,450.08 € 36,071.79 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0006

Läänemaa Local Municipalities' Climate change mitigation and adaptation plan

Association of Local Governments of Lääne County (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 1 € 31,404.60 € 25,120.24 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0001

Climate change mitigation and adaptation plan in Keila City

Keila City Government (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 2 0 € 14,620.00 € 10,956.99 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0013

Enhanced capacity on Circular Economy Keskkonnaagentuur (EE)

Pre-defined project

Outcome 3 1 € 900,000.00 € 783,843.36 Complete

d

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EE- CLIMATE -0014

The transition of civic amenity sites into reuse and repair centres

Strategic Centre of Tallinn (Tallinn City EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 3 1 € 357,942.53 € 246,460.26 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0017

CIRCULAR RENOVATION IN TARTU Tartu city government (EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 3 1 € 336,684.15 € 328,481.02 Complete

d

EE- CLIMATE -0015

Circular Economy project in Rae Municipality Rae Rural Municipality Government (Rae EE)

Call / Small Grants Scheme

Outcome 3 0 € 205,373.32 € 200,467.03 Complete

d

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Annex 6: Partially completed projects

For partially completed pre-defined projects or other projects receiving a grant equal to or greater than EUR 2,000,000 (including national co-financing but excluding project co-financing)

No entries found.

For partially completed non-predefined projects receiving a grant of less than EUR 2,000,000 (including national co-financing but excluding project co- financing)

No entries found.

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Annex 7: Conditions and special concerns

Description Tracking

Marked as fulfilled in GrACE

Date of fulfilmen t

Briefly describe the measures taken

1. The National Focal Point shall ensure that the Programme Operator ensures that project promoters:

o Keep any buildings purchased, constructed, renovated or reconstructed under the project in their ownership for a period of at least 5 years following the completion of the project and continue to use such buildings for the benefit of the overall objectives of the project for the same period;

o Keep any buildings purchased, constructed, renovated or reconstructed under the project properly insured against losses such as fire, theft and other normally insurable incidents both during project implementation and for at least 5 years following the completion of the project; and

o Set aside appropriate resources for the maintenance of any buildings purchased, constructed, renovated or reconstructed under the project for at least 5 years following the completion of the project. The specific means for implementation of this obligation shall be specified in the project contract.

Continuousl y tracking N/A -

Project sustainability checks, or follow-up checks, are carried out within three to five years after the approval of the final project report to ensure that the support is used as intended, assets are preserved, and the project objectives are achieved.