The Ministry of Smart Administration and Regional Development is one of the partners in the European Union LIFE Programme 2021–2027 Climate Sub-programme project “Development and Demonstration of a Portfolio of Nature-Based and Smart Solutions for Improving Urban Climate Resilience in Latvia and Estonia” (link to the project description). The project focuses on the use of nature-based solutions, urban greening, and climate change adaptation at the municipal level through various approaches.

Within the framework of the project, Ministry in cooperation with the Latvian Association of Architects, invites interested participants to attend three thematic two-day seminars during the summer of 2026. The aim of the seminars is to educate municipal and private sector professionals, including planners, architects, landscape architects, and engineers, on the implementation of nature-based solutions in urban environments, as well as on the application of the New European Bauhaus principles (link to a more detailed description).

The seminars will take place in June, July, and August, with each seminar focusing on a specific topic related to nature-based solutions and the development of more sustainable urban environments while addressing climate change risks. The first day of each seminar will be held online, featuring research findings, best practices, and experience-sharing sessions from various experts. The second day will take place in person and will include site visits showcasing relevant project examples within the respective region.

Registration is currently open for:

• Seminar “Nature-Based Solutions for Water Body Protection: Theory and Practice” (23–24 July)
  • Registration for the first day of the seminar (23 July): https://ej.uz/seminarsdbr_23jul
  • Registration for the second day of the seminar (24 July): https://ej.uz/seminarsdbr_24jul (Please note that the site visit bus tour will start and end at Liepāja Railway Station. Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the station.)
• Final Seminar “Nature-Based Solutions for Stormwater Management: Theory and Practice” (6–7 August)
  • Registration for the first day of the seminar (6 August): https://ej.uz/seminarsdbr_6aug
  • Registration for the second day of the seminar (7 August): https://ej.uz/seminarsdbr_7aug (Please note that the site visit bus tour will start and end at Daugavpils Railway Station. Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the station.)

Certified architects participating in the seminars will be eligible to receive continuing professional development (CPD) credits under the category of mandatory formal professional development activities (public safety and health).

For further information, please contact Luīze Eglīte, Senior Expert at the Department of Spatial Planning and Land Management of the Ministry:

E-mail: luize.eglite@varam.gov.lv
Phone: +371 67026553

Link to the programme for the 23–24 July seminar

Link to the programme for the 6–7 August seminar