RIVERCLEAN – Strengthening Civil Society’s Contribution to Plastic Reduction and Circular Solutions in Albania’s River Basins
The Second Call for Project Proposals under the Cleaner Rivers – Cleaner Seas (RIVERCLEAN) project aims to strength the role of civil society organizations os key actors in environmental monitoring, awareness and advocacy by implementing systematic beach macro litter monitoring in the Ishëm and Vjosa river basins.
Key Objectives
- Implement the Beach Macro Litter Monitoring Protocol (>2.5 cm) in the Ishëm and Vjosa river basins (site selection, data collection, analysis, reporting).
- Establish citizen science networks — mobilize youth, schools, and volunteers for monitoring, clean-ups, and awareness activities.
- Promote circular economy practices — link monitoring results with local actions to reduce single-use plastics and improve waste management.
Funding Information
Total fund available: €75,000
Grant size per project: €12,000 – €15,000 (covers 100% of eligible costs)
Duration: 12 months
Geographic focus: Ishëm and Vjosa river basins
Eligible Applicants
Non-profit civil society organizations (CSOs):
- Registered and active in Albania
- Experienced in environmental protection, waste management, or community engagement
- Not previously funded under the First Call for Proposals
- Co-applicants allowed; must meet same eligibility criteria.
Ineligible applicants: political or religious entities, or organizations with legal/ethical violations.
Eligible Activities
- Implementation of the Beach Macro Litter (>2.5 cm) monitoring protocol.
- Data collection, categorization, analysis, and reporting.
- Citizen science and training for youth/schools.
- Clean-up campaigns linked to monitoring.
- Awareness and visibility events.
- Reports and policy briefs.
- Stakeholder meetings and social media dissemination.
Ineligible: political, religious, or already-funded activities; purchase of land/buildings; VAT-covered costs; sponsorships.
Budget Rules
- Staff costs ≤ 35% of total budget.
- Only real, documented, and necessary expenses are eligible.
- VAT, customs duties, loans, penalties, or duplicated costs are not eligible.
Submission:
One printed original + digital copy (USB/CD). Must be delivered in person or by mail (no email submissions). Envelope marked “Not to be opened before the opening session – Second Call for Project Proposals”
Address:
Milieukontakt Albania
Rruga Xhoxhi Martini, Pallati Teuta Konstruksion, Shkalla 3, Ap. 8,
Tirana, Albania
Deadline: January 8, 2026, 16:30
