Energy and environment

The reduction of regional environmental impact as a result of production is supported by a series of business measures. The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Axis 3, provides for the regional allocation of project funding relating to energy-saving, the use of renewable sources and improved refuse-management. The Regional Energy Plan provides funds for the establishment of systems to reduce consumption and emissions as well as supporting cooperation between businesses and systems of research in the field of energy.

In conjunction with other local bodies, the Region is also engaged in the creation of ecologically equipped productive areas, in which shared management of services (sewerage, water, sorting of waste, etc.) reduces costs for businesses in a certain area, while at the same time reducing environmental impact.

The Region has also implemented Special Area Programmes, for planning the development of specific areas. Aims and instruments are developed jointly with local bodies.This approach is used to tackle problems ranging from air pollution in heavily industrialised areas, to urban redevelopment of port areas and the maximisation of potential for tourism.