EcoBoost!
EkoBoost! The project for inspiration and action when it comes to the environment, sustainability and ecosystem services.
The fact that we are facing major challenges regarding the environment, climate and sustainable development is not new. Studies show that climate change has a significant impact on biodiversity and ecosystems, greatly impairing the ability of ecosystems to provide natural benefits. More needs to be done and we are convinced that knowledge breeds action!
Through the project EcoBoost! We contribute to insights and increase knowledge about the environment, sustainability and ecosystem services. At the same time, we focus on ensuring that increased awareness leads to concrete actions.
Let yourself be inspired
Upcoming activities
We are constantly planning new activities. Keep an eye out here and in our newsletter!
June 27, 2026 | Opening of the exhibition space
Nyhagen's Garden, Berghem
Welcome to join us in inaugurating one of the EkoBoost project's display locations.
Garden enthusiasts Sara and Magnus Brenne at Nyhagens Trädgård have created several different small biotopes and environments that have created a real paradise for, among other things, flowering plants, insects and amphibians
During the inauguration, we will learn more about the efforts that have been made and what significance it may have for species in our local environment.
Follow along and be inspired about how you can benefit biodiversity in your location.
Time: June 27th 1-5pm
Place: Nyhagens Trädgård, Lekvad Berghem (directions via google maps link) https://maps.app.goo.gl/S6S7g6wjpBJVZdA9A
July 19, 2026 | Opening of the exhibition space
Meadow and pasture at Årås Estate & Gardens, Kölingared
Den 19 juli är det dags att inviga den fjärde av EkoBoost-projektets visningsplatser för biologisk mångfald. På Årås Säteri & Trädgårdar i Kölingared har de ideella krafterna i Bygdegårdsföreningen Årås Kvarn bla anlagt en ny blomsteräng, börjat restaurera en betesmark och skapat boplatser för vildbin och fåglar.
Under invigningen får du veta mer om de insatser som genomförts, vilken betydelse de har för naturen i vår närmiljö och hur du själv kan gynna biologisk mångfald på din egen plats.
📍 Årås Estate & Gardens
📅 19 juli
⏰ 14.00–16.00
Arrangemanget är kostnadsfritt och finanserieras genom Leader Sjuhärads projekt EkoBoost!
August 29, 2026 | Study visit - multiple use and diversity at Bönabo Norrgård
Bönabo Norrgård, Hestra
Join Leader Sjuhärad and Skogens kraft on an inspiring study visit to Bönabo Norrgård outside Hestra. During the meeting, you will learn about examples of how the farm, through forestry, agriculture and rental housing, can contribute to increased biodiversity and new business opportunities in the countryside.
Program:
10.00 Meeting at Bönabo Norrgård in Hestra. Frida Andersson and Lars Johansson welcome.
10.15–12.30 Walking tour of the farm grounds with a tour of the forest, the cottage and the farm. We will have coffee along the way and get to share good ideas and knowledge that can promote biodiversity and sustainable use of natural resources.
12.30-13.00 Closing with opportunity for questions and discussion.
Consider: Dress for the weather and wear good shoes as we will be outdoors all afternoon and will be walking a lot during the tour.
Time: August 29th 10am-1pm
Place: Bönabo Norrgård, Hestra: Google maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/C5NyKipZyeLZf3zd9
Register here by August 26th: Multi-use meeting: Multi-use and diversity at Bönabo Norrgård – Regional calendar
If you have any questions, please contact Katarina: katarina.berlin.thorell@leader-sjuharad.se
The meeting is financed by Leader Sjuhärad and Skogens kraft.
August 30, 2026 | Lecture and workshop on biodiversity, Hägna Gammelgård in Od
Hägna Gammelgård, Od
Together with Gäsene Hembygdsförening we are organizing an inspiration day about biodiversity in your area. Katarina Berlin Thorell from our EkoBoost! project will lecture and lead a practical workshop at the local history museum to create biodiversity-friendly environments and small biotopes. More info coming soon
If you have any questions, please contact Katarina: katarina.berlin.thorell@leader-sjuharad.se
October 24, 2026 | Theme day on sustainable food production in Sjuhärad
Rådde farm, Länghem
On October 24th, we invite you to a theme day about sustainable food production in Sjuhärad. What does sustainable food production mean for the environment, for the farmer and for the consumer? – that's what we'll talk about on this day!
Speakers include Gunnar Rundgren, author and debater, and Markus Hoffmann, LRF. Book the date now – more info and program coming soon.
If you have any questions, please contact Katarina: katarina.berlin.thorell@leader-sjuharad.se
Viewing locations in Sjuhärad
Together with committed actors and people in Sjuhärad, we are creating four display sites - places where we create and inspire how to benefit biodiversity and strengthen nature's ability to deliver ecosystem services.
Diversity pond in Melltorp
Pond becomes a haven for life in and around water
A pond is being built in Melltorp that benefits amphibians, insects and plants – and at the same time helps to retain water in the landscape. Here, a display area for life in and around water is created.
The host of the place is the landowner.
Erikstorp forest area
Small measures – big environmental benefits
In the Erikstorp forest area, biodiversity is being enhanced with, among other things, a stone wall in gabion technology, molehills and fauna depots. Here, environments are created for everything from insects to bats – in the middle of nature and close to the path.
The host for the exhibition site is Bollebygd Municipality.
Årås Estate & Gardens
Biodiversity in full bloom
At Årås Säteri och Trädgårdar, a display area is being created where meadows, flowering bulbs, willows and hollies breathe new life into the historic landscape. A new grazing area is being created – and the sheep are given a role in combating invasive species.
The venue is hosted by the Årås Kvarn Community Association.
Nyhagen's garden
Place for pollinators and small beneficial animals
In Nyhagens Trädgård, creative solutions are being created for pollinators and small animals. Here, a dryland meadow, a wintering site for amphibians and a new bee hotel are being arranged – all to show how nature can benefit both small and large areas.
The exhibition space is hosted by Sara Brenne Artwork and Garden HB.
Realize an idea!
Do you, your association or your organization, have an idea that contributes to biodiversity or benefits nature, but needs a less support to get started? Then we would like to recommend one of our micro-supports!
Search up to SEK 25,000!
Seeds of change
Do you, your association or your company have a project idea with a focus on biodiversity or ecosystem services? Through micro-support Seeds of change It is possible to apply for up to SEK 25,000 to, for example, create flower meadows, small bodies of water or insect hotels.
Micro-grants mean less administration and faster decisions – you can get started quickly! We accept applications on an ongoing basis as long as there is money left to distribute, and of course we are your sounding board during the application process! 🐝
How can we help you?
Katarina Berlin Thorell is the project manager for EkoBoost and is available for questions about the activities and opportunities offered within the project.
How can we help you make a difference?
Discover the possibilities with EkoBoost!
At EkoBoost, we offer a mix of inspiring lectures, field studies, workshops and other practical elements. The activities are aimed at entrepreneurs, public employees, community members and the general public – in short, anyone who wants to learn more and make a difference through action in their own locality.
By Seeds of change There is an opportunity to apply for funding for initiatives that benefit many, we call it public benefit. Are you curious about it? Or do you, your association or your company have an idea for something else that you think we could collaborate on? We would love to hear from you!
Katarina Berlin Thorell
Project Manager
katarina.berlin.thorell@leader-sjuharad.se
0704 75 61 94
The board's decision justification
The project will be a highlight for the focus area "ecosystem services" and fits well within the strategy's area. The project combines skills-building activities with both lectures, study visits, field studies and practical parts such as workshops. By highlighting the importance of ecosystem services, we hope to encourage a sustainable lifestyle and inspire practical efforts that contribute to conscious change. The project will have a main focus on biodiversity.
About the project
Project period
2024-2027
Project owner
Leader Sjuhärad
Project Manager
Katarina Berlin Thorell
info@leader-sjuharad.se
The project in the media
Have you read or heard about the project in the media? Please share the article or broadcast with us: info@leader-sjuharad.se.
About the financing
Granted leader support
3,335,831 SEK
Co-financing:
–
Total financing
3,335,831 SEK
In addition to the above, the project expects to contribute with non-profit commitment worth SEK 520,200.
The Leader support consists of funding from the EU, the state and the municipalities of Sjuhärad.
Incoming EU funds have been granted from:
Rural Development Fund