Submerged forests to save Lake Como and Lake Lugano

Context

TL;DR

• Project Echo to restore submerged meadows in Lake Como and Lake Lugano
• 320,000 euros and 60,000 francs for the triennium 2025-2027
• Partners: Proteus, Enerion Renewables, Minoprio Analisi, SUPSI

Key facts

• Cosa: Restoration of submerged meadows and assessment of CO2 storage capacity
• Quando: Triennium 2025-2027
• Dove: Lake Como and Lake Lugano
• Chi: Proteus Association, Enerion Renewables, Minoprio Analisi, SUPSI
• Importo: 320,000 euros and 60,000 francs
• Piante: Vallisneria spiralis, Myriophyllum spicatum, Potamogeton perfoliatus, Potamogeton lucens
• Tecnologie: 3D printing and Biochar innovation
• Siti sperimentali: Two experimental sites of 500 square meters each, located between three and five meters deep

In brief

• Project Echo to restore submerged meadows in Lake Como and Lake Lugano
• 320,000 euros and 60,000 francs for the triennium 2025-2027
• Partners: Proteus, Enerion Renewables, Minoprio Analisi, SUPSI

Key facts

• What: Restoration of submerged meadows and assessment of CO2 storage capacity
• When: Triennium 2025-2027
• Where: Lake Como and Lake Lugano
• Who: Proteus Association, Enerion Renewables, Minoprio Analisi, SUPSI
• Amount: 320,000 euros and 60,000 francs

In a warehouse in Minoprio, in the province of Como, a scientific experiment is underway that could revolutionize the protection of lake ecosystems. The Interreg Echo project, funded by the Interreg Italy-Switzerland cross-border cooperation program, aims to combat the effects of global warming in Alpine lakes. Thousands of aquatic plants, including Vallisneria spiralis, Myriophyllum spicatum, Potamogeton perfoliatus, and Potamogeton lucens, are growing in 18 transparent tanks, ready to be transplanted into Lake Como and Lake Lugano.

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Operational details

Implications for cross-border workers

The Echo project could have a significant impact on cross-border workers living and working in the Lake Lugano region. Protecting lacustrine ecosystems not only improves water quality but also contributes to biodiversity and climate stability, crucial factors for the quality of life and well-being of the community.

Direct benefits

Cross-border workers could directly benefit from improved water quality and greater stability of lacustrine ecosystems. This could translate into greater tourist attractiveness and an increase in economic opportunities for local communities, including cross-border workers employed in the tourism and catering sectors.

Environmental impact

Stabilizing sediment and reducing CO2 emissions contribute to the fight against climate change. This is particularly relevant for cross-border workers living in areas sensitive to climate change and who may be affected by extreme weather events. Protecting lacustrine ecosystems can also improve the resilience of local communities in the face of climate change.

Community involvement

The Echo project involves local partners, including SUPSI, which could offer training and collaboration opportunities for cross-border workers. This could include training programs on environmental restoration techniques, biodiversity management, and sustainability, which could be useful for cross-border workers in related sectors.

Future scenarios

If the project is successful, it could be extended to other lakes and sensitive areas, offering further opportunities for cross-border workers to be involved in environmental restoration and sustainability projects. This could also lead to greater cross-border collaboration and strengthened relations between local communities and cross-border workers.

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Key points

Concrete actions for cross-border workers

Cross-border workers who wish to be involved in the Echo project or who want to learn more can follow some concrete steps. First, they can visit the Interreg Echo project website to obtain updated information on progress and participation opportunities. Additionally, cross-border workers can contact local project partners, such as SUPSI, for information on training programs and collaboration opportunities.

Active participation

Cross-border workers can actively participate in the Echo project through volunteering, attending events, and awareness activities. This can include participating in lake shore clean-up days, water quality monitoring activities, and educational programs for local schools and communities.

Training and professional development

Cross-border workers can also benefit from the training opportunities offered by the project partners. This can include courses on environmental restoration techniques, biodiversity management, and sustainability, which can be useful for professional development and enhancing their curriculum vitae.

Involvement of local communities

Cross-border workers can play an active role in involving local communities in the Echo project. This can include participating in public meetings, disseminating information about the project's activities, and promoting environmental awareness initiatives. Furthermore, cross-border workers can collaborate with local authorities to promote sustainability and environmental protection policies.

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