The PeriNEXT project has successfully completed its International Virtual Workshop, bringing together participants from Portugal, Türkiye and Belgium to exchange knowledge and collaboratively explore the climate-neutral transformation of peri-urban areas across Europe.
Held online via the Zoom platform, the full-day workshop followed the agenda outlined in the project’s implementation plan and created an interactive environment in which experts, VET professionals, and local stakeholders reflected on both national and cross-country insights. The event included presentations, thematic discussions, and group reflections designed to deepen understanding of peri-urban challenges and co-develop sustainable, inclusive solutions.
Throughout the morning sessions, each partner region presented its national findings based on the earlier national workshops, highlighting the key challenges and opportunities observed in their peri-urban areas. These sessions provided an important comparative perspective, showing that although the regional contexts vary, many issues are commonly shared across Europe.
In the afternoon, the workshop continued with breakout discussions, where participants collaboratively explored local-level solutions and common strategic directions. The session also showcased best practices from Portugal, Türkiye, and Belgium, illustrating real-life examples of climate-neutral and community-driven approaches. A cross-country synthesis followed, focusing on transferability and the potential for joint innovation.
The final part of the workshop opened a space for exploring EU funding opportunities and future collaboration ideas, supporting the long-term sustainability and scaling potential of the PeriNEXT partnership. The event concluded with closing remarks and participant feedback.
The workshop marks an important milestone in the PeriNEXT project, strengthening cooperation across partner countries and generating valuable input for the upcoming project outputs, including the Climate Neutral Awareness Kit and the International Ideathon.
The PeriNEXT team extends its thanks to all participants for their contribution, engagement, and commitment to advancing the sustainable transformation of peri-urban areas.
