The 6th meeting of the DALIA consortium recently took place, bringing together partners working towards healthier rivers in the Danube Basin. The project is a part of the EU Mission “Restore our Ocean and Waters” by fostering research, innovation and collaboration across Europe’s river systems.
Among the consortium partners is PET Kupa, an initiative tackling plastic pollution in Hungary’s rivers (and also the host of the 6th meeting). Founded in 2013, the project began as a small volunteer effort to clean the Tisza River and has since grown into a nationally recognised environmental movement. PET Kupa organises annual “plastic cup” competitions, in which teams collect and recycle plastic waste while navigating the river on boats built from reused bottles. Over the years, participants have removed many tonnes of waste, much of which is repurposed or recycled locally. In addition to large-scale clean-up campaigns, PET Kupa also engages schools, local communities and decision-makers, creating long-term awareness and stronger environmental responsibility across the region.
Projects like PET Kupa demonstrate how citizen-driven efforts can complement scientific research and data services. Their creativity and dedication highlight the power of cooperation in addressing pressing environmental challenges.
meteoblue values such initiatives and looks forward to contributing with climate and hydrological expertise to support cleaner, healthier rivers in Europe and beyond.
