The main topic of the meeting was the launch of the project’s second phase – the Transfer Phase – marking the transition from testing and pilot implementation to the transfer, scaling-up and further application of the developed solutions in new Mediterranean territories. This milestone confirms the successful completion of activities and the results achieved during the previous project phase, while opening up new opportunities for their wider application and further exploitation.
The transfer process will involve the technical adaptation of the digital solution to the specific characteristics of the new territories, including the development of new datasets, software localisation and customisation, as well as activities aimed at strengthening the capacities of relevant stakeholders.
During the meeting, an overview of the project activities implemented so far and the results achieved was presented, together with the plans for the upcoming period. Partners exchanged information on the progress of individual work packages, discussed forthcoming tasks and responsibilities, and agreed on the implementation plan for the new project phase.
Special attention was also given to cooperation with the Natural Heritage Mission thematic community, within which project partners actively participate in joint workshops, data exchange and the preparation of educational materials. This cooperation contributes to knowledge transfer, increased visibility of project results and stronger links between the FRED project and other initiatives and activities under the Interreg Euro-MED Programme.
In the Transfer Phase, the FRED project brings together eight partner institutions and organisations, with the University of Rijeka, Faculty of Maritime Studies, acting as the Lead Partner. The project consortium also includes RGO Communications Ltd., Democritus University of Thrace, Public Institution National Park Pelister, Consorzio Forestale Matese, Florecha – Forest Solutions, SA, Region of East Macedonia and Thrace, and Pau Costa Foundation.
With the launch of this new phase, the FRED project continues its mission to develop and implement innovative digital solutions supporting sustainable forest management and forest fire prevention across the Mediterranean region. By extending cooperation to new territories, the project will further strengthen the potential for applying its results, exchanging experience and making a long-term contribution to the resilience of Mediterranean forest ecosystems to wildfires.
The project runs from 1 January 2024 to 31 March 2028. Its total budget amounts to EUR 3,181,327.30, of which EUR 2,545,061.84 is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
