The TransformAr consortium currently convening for its sixth meeting on 16-18 April 2024, in Lappeenranta, Finland, a city noted for its commitment to environmental sustainability. The meeting kicked off with Markku Heinonen providing an overview of Lappeenranta’s climate initiatives and environmental actions. Discussions on the progress of the project and strategies for maintaining momentum in the upcoming months were key highlights of the first day.

The consortium also explored Lappeenranta’s innovative climate resilience measures. Ilkka Räsänen of the Greenreality Network led a tour showcasing the city’s efforts, including a new stormwater management pilot and several constructed wetlands, with expert insights provided by Simo Sihvo. The day concluded with a visit to LUT University, where the group toured the water lab and the J. Hyneman Center, learning from the Sustainability science team headed by Risto Soukka.

The event, praised for its organization and the rich learning opportunities it provided, owes much of its success to local coordinators Sanna Varis and Liuliu Du-Ikonen.