As part of an exhibition held in Riga on October 15, 2024, a seminar took place focusing on the role of local governments in supporting the implementation of new technologies. The event brought together stakeholders from various sectors to explore how municipalities can help drive innovation across industries. The CERITA project was presented as a positive example of cross-sector cooperation and innovation in the field of waste management.
The discussion centered on identifying ways to improve collaboration between public institutions and private companies. Participants highlighted the importance of strong local governance in enabling the adoption of new technologies—particularly in areas such as renewable energy, automation, and environmental sustainability.
The CERITA project served as a case study, demonstrating how local authorities in Riga and Tartu are working alongside international partners to promote sustainable waste management practices using a circular economy approach. The project’s ability to align public support with private innovation was recognized as a model for future initiatives in Latvia and beyond.
Key takeaways from the seminar included the need for clearer policy frameworks, targeted funding mechanisms, and structured cooperation between cities, technology providers, and investors. These elements are critical for scaling up solutions and ensuring successful implementation at the local level.
CERITA brings together six partners from the Baltic States and the Netherlands, working to transform municipal waste management systems through innovation and circular economy practices. The project is 100 percent funded by the European Innovation Council and the Executive Agency for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (EISMEA) and will run through 2024–2025.