![Icon-priorities-P2](/sites/default/files/styles/priority_sm/public/media/2022-09/Icon-priorities-P2.png?itok=dTUdFvyt)
The jury has nominated three excellent North Sea projects to enter the final round of the REGIOSTARS Awards contest.
We are thrilled to announce that three North Sea projects are among the 25 REGIOSTARS Awards finalists! TOPSOIL, JOMOPANS and BITS were chosen among a record-high 262 applications.
What comes next?
Public voting for the finalists starts on 2 September. Whilst the jury will select a winner in each category, the public voting determines who wins the Public Choice Award. Please stay tuned!
On 8 October, the final winners will be announced at the REGIOSTARS public ceremony. This event takes place in Brussels as part of the European Week of Regions and Cities.
Big congratulations on the nominations to our amazing North Sea finalists!
Meet the North Sea final contenders
![A group of people wearing safety vests, in a boat dragging scientific equipment. across a lake.](/sites/default/files/media-object/2024-07/TOPSOIL-green.png)
Photo: TOPSOIL
TOPSOIL
Climate change causes visible damage, such as storms and floods. However, it also affects the underground, impacting our drinking water and agricultural land. TOPSOIL studied the impact underground and found solutions for soil and groundwater management. Governments, farmers, and water managers have adapted TOPSOIL's measures, improving water management across the North Sea region.
TOPSOIL is applying in Category 2 - A Green Europe.
![A dolphin with the fin seen above water.](/sites/default/files/media-object/2024-07/Jomopans_green.png)
Photo: Peter Heslenfeld/JOMOPANS
JOMOPANS
This project put the spotlight on the impact of noise from human activity at sea on marine life. By measuring noise in the North Sea it influenced EU-wide regulation and regional policies. JOMOPANS work continues to encourage industries to reduce noise pollution from shipping and offshore windfarms.
JOMOPANS is applying in Category 2 - A Green Europe.
![Two people with bikes checking an app in a green area in sunny weather.](/sites/default/files/media-object/2024-08/BITS-finalist.png)
Photo © Deelfiets Nederland, courtesy of BITS
BITS
BITS was a first mover in promoting the use of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) to make cycling a better and safer experience. In 33 innovative pilots, the project showcased a range of smart cycling solutions. One pilot in Flanders, using 3D cameras to identify traffic risk, won a National Road Safety Award. Using a ‘cycling to work’ app, commuters in Germany and the Netherlands replaced 25-50% of their car trips by bike trips.
BITS is applying in Category 3 - A Connected Europe.