Estonia intends to use part of the EU's Just Transition Fund to invest in a sauna festival, an axe-throwing centre and a dance marathon, part of a strategy to build a culture of the good life.
The Just Transition Fund is one of the EU's main strategic funds to help countries move towards climate neutrality by 2050. By funding the promotion of clean energy, environmental restoration, the creation of new businesses and the retraining of workers, the Fund is making a major contribution to EU countries' progress on sustainable development.
Estonia plans to use EU funds for sauna masterclasses
The EU has granted €354 million to Ida-Viru County in eastern Estonia, a pioneer of the country's environmental transition. The funds will be used to diversify economic activity, reduce the production of fossil fuels and create new businesses based on the circular economy.
However, part of the funds will be allocated to the cultural sector.
To celebrate the Estonian love of sauna, EUR 10 000 will be allocated to the NGO Rakvere Marathon to organise masterclasses on Estonian sauna culture in Ida-Viru County, and thousands of euros will be redirected to fund a dance marathon. Other investments will include the staging of the Estonian disc golf championship, a digital library and a children's summer ice hockey camp.
Sauna is the hub of Estonian culture; the ultimate social network that plays an important role in community life. Throughout the year, Estonians stop by the sauna to seek comfort, cleansing and connection with others. The practice is deeply rooted in the culture of the people; healing baths and spas have been popular in Estonia for over 200 years.
The first written records of saunas date back to the 13th century, when they were used as birthing rooms as they were the cleanest part of the house. Today, a sauna is a place to meet friends and family on any occasion; whether it's a New Year's Eve celebration, relaxation after work or a place to spend quality time with loved ones. | BGNES
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