With the Ovtar goes around operation, the content and scope of the local offer of food and non-food products in connection with the tourist offer will be upgraded and connected with the content and offer of tourism, combined in one operation. It is an integrated approach to the development of the local offer in connection with the marketing of sustainable tourism.
Presentation of the project
Location:
The local and tourist offer of the LAG Ovtar of Slovenske gorice area (Southeastern Slovenia), which comprises 10 municipalities, united into a geographical whole. In terms of development, the region is below average in both Slovenian and European standards.
Existed needs:
Unrecognizability and weak promotion of the local and tourist offer of the LAS Ovtar area or Slovenske Gorice.
The absence of common (digital) platforms and marketing channels for common market presence.
Underutilization of local (tourist) potentials.
Objectives:
Development, presentation and promotion of local producers or providers of tourist services.
Development of services that improve the inclusion of the offer in the community of all residents of the area.
Connecting the offer and establishing conditions for sustainable and green development.
Support in connection and inclusion of vulnerable groups (elderly providers, housewives’ associations, young people, disabled…)
Actual outputs:
The combined appearance of local and tourist offers on the market.
Extremely positive response from providers and inclusion in the common brand.
Implementation of the idea of sustainability and environmental protection among providers, local communities and the environment in general.
Common digital platform (website) and promotional materials for tourism and other stakeholders (tourist catalogues, catalogues of local offer, brochures, maps – available in English as well).
Promotional materials that are universally applicable to events and local vendors (promo-wall, beach flags).
Raising the quality of tourist services and adopted standards for the development of the offer.
Establishing a network of cooperation with related organizations from the public and private sector.
Providing the basic basis for the development of tourism in the region.
Network of more than 250 local stakeholders (associations, local communities, farms, tourist providers, organizations, …).
Role of LEADER:
Co-financing the connected activities of local communities and stakeholders to meet their common needs in a wider area.
Implementation of guidelines for environmental protection, principles of sustainability and digitization among providers and local communities.
Connecting different (tourist and local) stakeholders into a common system that has the same goal.
It made it possible to ensure the basic conditions in the field of tourism and the local offer, so that it stands out from the average and starts building on added value.
Emblematic character of the project
We find that local providers, local communities and other stakeholders in the area do not know how to work together if it were not for an institution like ours. As a result, until now they did not even know each other and did not cooperate, and in the wider environment this meant that the region and its key offers were unrecognizable. Organizations at the national level and in the neighborhood of our area did not treat us equally and included us in joint activities.
Our organization spent a year collecting information on the field, identifying offers and potentials, and listening to local stakeholders regarding their problems and suggestions. Regardless of the concrete results of the project, this information from the field has an invaluable value for all definitions in the strategy and in future projects, since the information is obtained directly from the people and organizations to which LEADER is intended.
With the Ovtar goes around operation, we have raised the level of tourism development, as a result more and more people are engaged in tourism (new offer, neat surroundings, more jobs). Providers have also realized that even in tourism it is possible to have a positive impact on the environment, so most of them organize events without the use of plastic, with glass packaging, recycled material… and some also prepare projects focused on the circular economy, whereby we support them.
The project represents an example for other areas that have problems in connecting local and tourist offers. Although we connect 10 municipalities and almost 200 local and tourist providers, we practically never have problems with confirming our proposals, as we enjoy a high level of trust in our work. This is the main factor of our successful work, where we can be an example to others.
Pictures
We included region:
Nature:
Gastronomy (included subjects: Association of Housewives, rural Societies, Restaurants, Tourist Farms):
Local and tourist providers (groups and individual presentation):
Legends and cultural heritage:
2- CULINARY EVENTS (included subjects: local people, associations)
In the project “The digital tools for innovative services at Jaunauce Manor” an application called « Vārti » was created at Jaunauce Manor – an augmented reality digital exhibition. It is an innovative solution that helps castle visitors visualize those art objects that historically were located in the castle but are no longer preserved or are now in European museums. In the virtual exhibition of the castle halls, visitors can view 12 paintings and eight busts that were located in Jaunauce Manor in the 19th century. The most outstanding art collection of that time in the Courland province was found here, including works by old masters like Raphael and Leonardo da Vinci, as well marble busts created by the “sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen, and other works. The collection belonged to Baron Theodor von der Rop.Historically, Jaunauce Manor’s hall also hosted celebrations of the von der Rop family. The developed application allows you to see the 3D format of the 1833 and 1915 manorial ball dances, including the waltz, and masquerades in the attire of that era. The project provided the opportunity for Jaunauce Manor to develop a high-quality, contemporary, and innovative solution to explore the cultural heritage of Jaunauce Manor, which educates and inspires people of the 21st century.
Presentation of the project
The project was implemented in Jaunauce parish which is one of the least populated places in Saldus district – 112 inhabitants (data as of 20.06.2023). Jaunauce is located 15 km from the Lithuanian border, more than 100 km from Riga. One of the longest distances to the administrative center of the county – 47km. Until the submission of the project, digital tools were used in Latvia only in the capital Riga – in 3 museums. The 4th museum is located in Jaunauce.
By developing the tourist offer of Jaunauces Castle, using modern methods, the development of Jaunauces Castle is promoted, thus giving the opportunity to preserve one of the most significant tourism objects of Saldus region and resilience of local municipality. In the future, it could create new jobs and promote the attractiveness of the place, which in turn could encourage the return of young people to Jaunauce parish.
Emblematic character of the project
The keywords of the strategy are cooperation, local resources, innovative use of cultural and historical heritage.
The Leader project mitigates at least 4 THREATS defined in the strategy – the emergence of new outskirts without development opportunities, because the project ensures development, both the potential of the cultural and historical monument – Jaunauce Castle, and the potential of tourism development will be used, and new tourism products and services will be created.
The project provides innovations and is original – for the first time in the territory of the LAG, an augmented reality exposition will be created – it is able to visualize non-existent objects that were once in the castle. Information about cultural heritage is presented according to the 21st century. technological possibilities, which are very important for attracting children and young people.
In the strategy, projects that are innovative at the strategy level in the territory of the local action group are considered innovative projects, the connection of cultural and historical heritage with innovations is emphasized.
Jaunauce Castle’s example of good practice is a good source of inspiration, a model and a place for consultation for managers of other historical buildings. The application arouses interest in other palace services.
Pictures
Association Mēs-Jaunaucei
Association « Saldus District Development Association”
The “Villages of Portugal/Aldeias de Portugal” are an interactive and collaborative network of villages, based on sharing and using the methodology and principles of the LEADER approach for the co-construction of a development and valorization project for each village, based on its resources and potential and in the involvement of the community and local actors, led by the Local Action Group in each area with the support of ATA – Associção de Turismo de Aldeia, a national association dedicated to capacity building marketing and promotion and dissemination of local endogenous resources.
Presentation of the project
The project’s intervention area is Mainland Portugal and its objective is to enhance the cultural heritage of rural areas, reinforcing the demographic fabric of the most isolated regions. In this way, it is possible to promote social inclusion and alleviate poverty in these territories. Promoting its villages and empowering its community, in order to consolidate the “Aldeias de Portugal” network, expanding its representation at national level and the expected social impact.
With the active participation of 16 Local Action Groups, the project was able to classify 61 villages, providing significant improvements in the quality of life and the preservation of rural traditions in Portugal. This achievement is the result of the promotion and conservation of rural heritage, using memory and local identity as essential resources.
Community involvement is crucial to success, and each local stakeholder must contribute with their work, thus ensuring the continuity and success of each village project. The importance of exploring the deep emotional bond between inhabitants and their village is also highlighted, using this bond as a driver for local development. Each local person/organisation personal investment not only ensures the continuity of the project, but also strengthens the feeling of belonging, essential for the sustainable defence and promotion of each village.
Emblematic character of the project
The Network Villages of Portugal is a driver of aggregation and valorization of sustainable dynamics that aim at the development of the territory, through the dynamization of its endogenous resources and assets that characterize its identity.
1.Cultural Preservation: Many villages have significant cultural and historical value. Preserving these aspects not only maintains local identity, but can also attract cultural tourism.
2.Local Economic Development: Investing in infrastructure, promoting rural tourism and supporting local economic activities in villages generates jobs and stimulates economic growth in rural areas.
3.Environmental Sustainability: Villages, often located in natural environments, benefit from strategies that aim to balance economic development with environmental conservation.
4.Social Inclusion: Combat rural depopulation, promoting social inclusion and providing opportunities for rural communities.
5.Increased Quality of Life: By investing in local services, such as education, health and leisure, villages can improve the quality of life of their inhabitants and attract the return of “children of the land”.
In summary, the « Villages of Portugal » project and network play a crucial role in the LEADER supported Local Development Strategy of each LAG partner, as they represent strategic locations in their areas to drive sustainable economic development, preserve culture and promote quality of life in rural areas, promoting social inclusion and combating poverty in these territories.
The most emblematic activities of the Aldeias de Portugal are registered on the social networks:
Activities in several villages include remembering/reactivating community traditions related to agrifood heritage, creation of new events to promote local products, local participator assemblies to decide on future events of the project or training the community to welcome visitors with the initiative “Have lunch and dinner with us”:
“Quinta de Travassinhos” is a rural tourist accommodation (TER – Turismo em Espaço Rural) development in the agrotourism modality, located in Santa Marta de Penaguião, in the Alto Douro region. The rehabilitation process of the farm, which dates back to the 18th century, was supported by LAG Douro Histórico, through the LEADER Measure of the Mainland Portugal Rural Development Program. The space currently offers 9 accommodation units, living and dining room, kitchen, leisure space, SPA and outdoor pool.
Presentation of the project
This project aims to respond to the need, increasingly felt in the region, to offer quality and differentiated tourism units in the municipality of Santa Marta de Penaguião, more specifically in the village of Sanhoane.
This project considered the following opportunities:
– High international notoriety that Portugal, as a tourist destination, experiences;
– Recognition of the Alto Douro Wine Region as a world heritage site by UNESCO;
– Growing demand for tourism products based on « experience/discovery »;
– Increased demand in the areas of wine tourism, ecotourism and entertainment activities;
– Growing interest in regional products (gastronomy, wines…);
– Increase in the number of visitors to the Douro Region and demand for quality tourism;
– Search for destinations that allow contact with nature and rurality;
– Positive tourist references to Portugal and the Douro region in the international press;
– Lack of direct competition on site;
– Natural conditions of the region: the climate, the river, the vineyard and the cultural and landscape diversity.
– Lack of institutional promotion – Economic instability, with strong pressure on prices;
– Economic and political situation in Europe
This tourist space consists of the ground floor, through which there is the main entrance and where the enterprise’s service and administrative support areas and a SPA are located. On the 1st floor there are 5 bedrooms with private bathroom and on the 2nd floor there are 4 bedrooms, 1 of which is intended for people with reduced mobility. It also offers an outdoor space, where, in addition to outdoor meals, there is a swimming pool, from where you can enjoy the stunning landscape. The investments, promoted through LAG Douro Histórico and with the support of EAFRD funds within the scope of sub-measure “Diversification of activities on farms to non-agricultural activities”, aimed at:
– Fully respect the general requirements for the facilities and operation of rural units;
– Provide the space with all the equipment necessary for its operation;
– Allow the holding of themed events and other wine tourism activities;
– Maintain the architectural and ornamental characteristics typical of the environment in which the house is located;
– Ensure efficient internal and customer relationship management;
– Contribute to qualify, expand and retain demand for the tourism unit;
The project was supported by a 50% non-refundable subsidy of the eligible investment. The support amounted to €84,966.06 in European funding and €14,994.02 in national funding. The investments consisted of remodelling the house and creating a swimming pool, intervention in exterior arrangements, furniture and kitchen equipment, household appliances, as well as various studies.
The promoter intends to invest in a strategy of promoting the tourist unit, based on the dissemination of quality services, with entertainment and cultural leisure activities, with very attractive prices for this type of offer.
Emblematic character of the project
This is an innovative project, taking into account the lack of tourist offer of this nature in the place where it is located and also due to the diversification of the products it offers to its potential customers.
It fits perfectly into the strategy defined and approved by the local partnership of the LAG, which presents tourism as one of its priority areas.
The project will contribute to population retention, not only by creating jobs but also by increasing the dynamics associated with the local economy.
This type of projects can be perfectly replicated in other rural territories with similar socio-economic characteristics, within the framework of LEADER strategies taking advantage of local potential and diversifying the functions and activities in the territory.
The project started on the kitchen counter of Miguel Rodrigues’ parents. Miguel has always had a taste for sustainable and healthy food, so he had this idea of creating a healthy almond paste, taking advantage, in a sustainable way, of one of the most traditional products in his region, the Algarve almonds.
After many experiments, his team got there, and today they have a very careful production process that uses only natural ingredients and manages to preserve the maximum qualities and taste of all products. Instead of I’M NAT, the name of the company, you could call them natural delights. They gladly accept.
Their mission is to continue to create natural, tasty and honest products, promoting a change in eating habits, making them healthier and more sustainable.
Presentation of the project
The promoter of the project intended to use almonds, one of the most characteristic products of his region, in a sustainable way, creating new products/new usages to the product, creating value, promoting the territory, and promoting healthier eating habits. The promoter looked for support next INTERIOR DO ALGARVE CENTRAL Local Action Group to install and start his business (to adapt a space and to acquire equipment for processing and marketing). Regarding the products, knowing that the quality of the ingredients is fundamental, in 2017, the company started to look for local producers that would guarantee this quality. In 2018 their almond paste was already part of breakfasts in the region and in 2019 they were on the lips of the whole country! Making a big leap, the company created a new name and a new image. I’M NAT! was born, in English, because naturally, the company want to go around the world! Today the company has a wide range of products produced with Algarve almonds and other nuts The company is located in the small village of Bela Salema, next to Faro, in Algarve, the southern region of Portugal.
Emblematic character of the project
In a region with a high rate of precarious employment, the project allowed the creation of new jobs, with perspectives of stability. This also allowed the valorisation of endogenous products, traditional local production methods and the valorisation of products and the territory. The project also allowed local production to be boosted, through the creation of partnerships with local producers. The project also aims to promote healthy and sustainable eating habits using local products (no added sugar, no palm oil, vegan products) and disseminate this approach, encouraging adoption by other companies in other regions of the country and even abroad.
L’alimentation est un sujet de la vie quotidienne de plus en plus prégnant. Malbouffe, obésité, pesticides, excès de sucre, de sel, origine des produits sont autant de sujets qui préoccupent les « mangeurs », et en particulier les parents de jeunes enfants. Partant de ce constat, et s’appuyant sur la démarche « BoCal » (Bon et loCal) portée dans le cadre de l’animation des Projets Alimentaires Territoriaux (PAT) développés par la Communauté de Communes du Grand Pic Saint-Loup et Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole, Le Passe Muraille s’est fixé comme objectif de créer une unité de restauration collective scolaire de qualité privilégiant un approvisionnement en productions locales, biologiques et de saison qui sera gérée par une entreprise et un chantier d’insertion professionnelle. Ce projet d’étude-action ambitieux a fait le pari d’associer plusieurs thématiques autour d’un réseau de partenaires habituellement non connectés (agriculture, insertion sociale, formation professionnelle et restauration collective). Pari aujourd’hui réussi !
Présentation du projet
L’alimentation a été déclarée « grande cause régionale 2018/2019 » par la Région Occitanie. Cette orientation s’est basée sur une concertation d’expert et une grande consultation citoyenne desquelles ont émergé les enjeux futurs pour une alimentation saine et durable, un approvisionnement local en circuit-court, une sensibilisation à une alimentation responsable, une solidarité du champ à l’assiette. C’est très précisément dans ce cadre que le projet « De la Terre à l’Assiette » s’est positionné. Il a pour double ambition :de concevoir les repas à destination de la restauration collective scolaire basés sur un choix d’un approvisionnement fait à 100% en produits Bio et locaux, en favorisant le « fait maison » et en intégrant un dispositif de lutte contre le gaspillage alimentaire ; de répondre au besoin de qualification de main d’œuvre dans les métiers de l’hôtellerie/restauration en tension sur le Département en favorisant l’insertion sociale et professionnelle des publics les plus fragiles.
Pour cela, 2 structures ont été créées sur le territoire de la Communauté de Communes (une entreprise d’insertion et un chantier d’insertion professionnelle) dont l’activité permettra de commercialiser et développer un service de restauration scolaire sous la forme d’une SCIC (associant les collectivités territoriales). Le pari est aujourd’hui réussi, en partie grâce au rôle fédérateur apporté par LEADER, avec une mise en réseau initiée tant vers des partenaires externes (FR CIVAM, Chambre d’Agriculture) que vers d’autres projets LEADER (MFR,). Grâce à une approche d’« amélioration de la qualité alimentaire », ce sont aujourd’hui 4 communes , et bientôt 8, du territoire et plus largement 12 écoles au total qui ont fait le choix volontariste de confier la fourniture des repas scolaire à l’association Passe Muraille et à la SCIC De La Terre à l’Assiette. L’aventure débutée en 2019 abouti, aujourd’hui : à la création d’un chantier d’insertion avec 15 postes, dont 3 encadrants à la création de 2 entreprises d’insertion avec 26 postes, dont 8 en insertion à l’ouverture d’un restaurant self.
Ce sont donc 41 postes qui sont créés aujourd’hui pour ce projet dont 21 emplois permanents et 20 en insertion professionnelle. Ce sont plus de 2000 repas / jours qui sont produits aujourd’hui en bio et local. Le développement se poursuit sur les territoires voisins du Pic Saint loup. De nombreux producteurs locaux en agriculture bio se développent grâce au partenariat généré par cette action.
Le caractère emblématique du projet
De nombreuses familles font le choix d’une autre alimentation, plus saine, plus responsable, plus éthique.
Cette évolution de comportement, qui s’observe tout particulièrement sur notre territoire, est à mettre en lien avec les enjeux sociétaux actuels de relocalisation et réappropriation de notre alimentation. Le projet « De la Terre à l’Assiette » répond pleinement à ces problématiques en s’appuyant sur deux axes prioritaires définis dans la stratégie du GAL Grand Pic Saint-Loup : favoriser les circuits-courts, promouvoir et valoriser les productions du territoire (Fiche-Action 4) et favoriser l’adaptabilité du public en recherche d’emploi et encourager le retour à l’emploi (Fiche-Action 2).
Accompagner la réalisation de ce projet, c’est montrer que c’est POSSIBLE. Possible d’accompagner ce changement de comportement jusque dans la restauration scolaire. Possible de faire de la restauration collective en s’approvisionnant localement en produits Bio et de saison.
Ce projet « De la Terre à l’Assiette », qui s’appuie sur des principes simples et la volonté forte d’acteurs locaux institutionnels, publics et privés, contribue à faire rayonner l’image d’un territoire en l’associant à une politique de haute qualité alimentaire et pourra être modélisé et développé sur d’autres territoires, pour la restauration scolaire, ou tout autre type de Restauration Hors Domicile. Le nombre de création d’emplois 41 au total est au rdv et permet un retour sur investissement des 25 000 € de FEADER absolument exceptionnel.
Galeria Municipal – Centro Interpretativo do Concelho
Portugal
Introduction
The Montemor-o-Velho Interpretive Center introduces technological innovation to explore history, customs, experiences and traditions in an interactive and playful way.
Using technological resources and interactive and dynamic exhibition spaces, it is possible to get to know the municipality of Montemor-o-Velho in its various aspects: heritage, gastronomy; traditions; culture; endogenous resources; economic activities; environment and biodiversity. Each visit is intended to be a unique “journey”, in which the visitor is challenged to interact to discover the secrets and history of Montemor-o-Velho, reinforcing the identity ties of the local community, especially the younger ones who, in a certain way, have stopped contacting with some of these identity experiences and customs.
In this space, which originates from the refunctionalization of the old Municipal Market and Gallery, it is possible to enjoy an experience where visitors can breathe and experience the history, heritage, culture and identity of the municipality and its people in an innovative way.
Presentation of the project
The Montemor-o-Velho Interpretive Center is located in the historic center of the town of Montemor-o-Velho, covered by the intervention of Local Action Group AD ELO and is characterized as a strategic project promoted by the municipality of Montemor-o-Velho that aims to qualify, study, preserve and disseminate the municipality’s cultural heritage. The development of the project was supported under the LEADER measure Mainland Portugal Rural Development Program.
The goal of this project was to create the technological functionalities of the Interpretive Center, which provides the dissemination of a set of thematic content linked to the identifying and endogenous elements of the municipality of Montemor-o-Velho. Therefore, each of the tools available at the Interpretive Center aims to use technology in an interactive way, providing the visitors with a complete communication of content that demonstrates the history, identifying elements, places to visit and values of Montemor-o-Velho.
From games to various multimedia content, everything was thought out in detail to take visitors on a journey through the visual, graphic and sound roots of Montemor-o-Velho.
On the ground floor of the old Municipal Gallery, interactive games challenge children and adults to catch crayfish, one of the pests of the Baixo Mondego (Carolino type) rice fields, or to uncover the municipality’s legends, discovering, for example, the chests hidden in the Castle. The « multimedia wall » offers several promotional and informative videos with subtitles. The interactive counters and kiosks showcase the values, personalities and material and immaterial heritage of the municipality. The “Time Tunnel”, on the 1st floor, takes visitors on a journey through Montemor-o-Velho from its beginnings to contemporary times. The strong technological component associated with the space tatgets different types of audiences.
The Montemor-o-Velho Interpretive Center was inaugurated in July 2023 and is open from Tuesday to Sunday and is accessible to people with reduced mobility.
Emblematic character of the project
The project to create the Montemor-o-Velho Interpretive Center was supported by the LEADER measure, highlighting the strong evidence of innovation in the community, presenting itself in the territory as unique and differentiating, as it included the recovery and improvement of an important heritage site in Montemor-o-Velho, the Municipal Gallery (Old Market), boosting its appreciation through conversion and equipping it into an Interpretive Center, allowing the valorization of the municipality’s heritage, cultural, economic and tourist elements.
Specifically, the Interpretive Center was structured to function as an element that stimulates and promotes the preservation and reinforcement of local identity through activities that provide differentiating experiences that have a strong impact on the tourist component of the territory, also promoting its attractiveness. It is also intended that this space constitute a reference element for the school community.
The dynamization of the Interpretive Center promotes and enhances complementarity with other local projects and dynamics, targeting different audiences of the local community.
This project can be transferred to other territories, through the actions of LAGs in the implementation of their Local Development Strategies, adapting its structuring/implementation to specific situations/opportunities. The promotion of local heritage, based on the valorization and refunctionalization of structures, placed at the service of the community and the local economy, are basic factors of the LEADER intervention that are present in this project and that can be disseminated to many other territories.
Networking for the collection and aggregation of various local heritage elements, the promotion of animation initiatives for the development and promotion of rural territories, innovation by developing dynamics using technology, the dissemination and preservation of the territory’s identity elements and the encouragement of initiatives that promote the involvement of new social actors in local development, namely, younger generations, are present in this project.
Located in Santo Amaro, the smallest parish on Pico Island, with the help of LEADER project and ADELIAÇOR LAG, an old grocery store was converted into a contemporary and welcoming grocery store with cafeteria service, where in addition to selling various local food products (and others), there is an offer of light meals and home deliveries.
Presentation of the project
The project located in the parish of Santo Amaro, Pico island, Azores, Portugal consisted of carrying out total remodelling works on the existing building to adapt the space, acquiring equipment and utensils for the creation of the grocery store and cafeteria space and the acquisition of a vehicle for home delivery service.
In addition to the sale of conventional products, the promoter invested in the sale of organic and gourmet products and the cafeteria section presents a diversified offer of prepared products for immediate consumption, valuing the use of seasonal and healthy local/regional food products, namely vegetables and fruits.
With the support of LEADER, it was possible to support this project, which is of great importance and relevance at a local level, considering the lack of a point of sale for basic products in the parish of Santo Amaro and throughout the island of Pico of a point of sale of diverse products, namely organic and gourmet, and provision of light meals (breakfast, brunch, lunch).
The space is also adapted to carry out awareness-raising actions that allow reflection and information to consumers about the importance and usefulness of consuming organic products for health and well-being. In terms of promoting and marketing the business, also combining a playful and educational aspect, the promoter organizes events in partnership with local entities related to the themes of agriculture and circular economy, food and gastronomy, health and nutrition, environment and sustainability.
Emblematic character of the project
The project supported under the intervention 6.4.1 – Investment in the Creation and Development of Non-Agricultural Activities, in the LEADER measure of the Azores Rural Development Programme is a business initiative that promotes traditional and innovative know-how.
It is an investment that contributes to the implementation of LAG ADELIAÇOR’s strategy in the area as its creation allowed to offer new services/new practices, through home sales and new products, with the sale of regional gourmet products, contributing to the promotion of competitiveness and diversification of supply.
The project is also justified by its articulation with the primary sector as it uses and sells organic horticultural products.
The project is also associated with local distinctive/traditional factors, both because it allowed the restoration of the building of an old grocery store and because it offers a service selling regional gourmet products.
Also noteworthy is the preservation and dissemination of local culture through the meal service, making use of seasonal local and regional products.
The recovery of built heritage and its refunctionalization associated with the promotion and valorisation of local products, generating wealth in rural areas takes on a demonstrative and transferable role with an innovative character covered by the LEADER/CLLD philosophy.
Pictures
Claudia Ávila de Matos
LAG ADELIAÇOR
Associação para o Desenvolvimento Local de Ilhas dos Açores
The project Alijó Walking has the general aim of creating a network of walking routes throughout the municipality. With the definition of 17 short routes, covering all parishes in the municipality of Alijó, the project aims to offer visitors and locals the possibility of enjoying scenic, geological and heritage resources, as well as direct contact with the local communities.
Presentation of the project
This project encourages the valorization of the natural, scenic, and cultural resources existing in Alijó through the creation of a set of short walking trails, where visitors can observe and learn about the local species of fauna, flora and geology present in the territory, as well as about points of interest in the municipality’s architectural and cultural heritage.
After the project, maintenance/preservation activities for the pedestrian trail network are also included as well as activities to publicize/encourage visitation to the territory, through the use of the implemented trail network.
The project, supported through LAG Douro Histórico, within the framework of sub-measure “Village Renewal” LEADER Measure of the Mainland Portugal Rural Development Program has the following concrete objectives:
a) Value and promote local heritage elements (such as chapels, viewpoints, forts, sanctuaries), landscape (with emphasis on the geology, flora and fauna present in the territory) and environmental (with emphasis on the cultivation of vineyards, border olive groves and spontaneous Mediterranean forests);
b) Value endogenous traditional knowledges, uses and customs, within the territorial coverage area of the routes;
c) Boost and value local products (wine, olive oil and gastronomy);
d) Establish interaction networks between the local community and tourists;
e) Improve the well-being of residents in the territory;
f) Fight isolation and social exclusion;
g) Create employment and income opportunities for the resident population and economic operators identified in this territory;
h) Provide opportunities for citizen participation, under conditions of gender equality;
i) Increase the tourist attractiveness of the territory;
j) Increase the offer of tourist resources.
Emblematic character of the project
All the trails set in this Route Network will allow visitors to discover the entire territory of the municipality, increasing, through this tourist offer, its notoriety and promotion.
The project is particularly relevant within the framework of the local development strategy of the LAG defined for the territory by the local partners, given that one of its key pillars is the development of the tourism sector.
The network of routes also constitutes an important opportunity to create dynamics between the populations of the different parishes and villages crossed by the route.
The project will contribute to a significant increase in the dynamics associated with the local economy and tourist attraction, as well as the improvement of sporting activities associated with Nature.
This project is easily replicable by all other municipalities in the LAG Intervention territory, as well as by other territories, which see the promotion of tourism or the practice of sport as an opportunity for local development.
The project idea is to test and create knowledge about the possibilities of biochar within SydostLeader’s geographical area. This will be performed in two different ways. Two test models for environmentally friendly biochar plants are developed, a pilot project for testing a biochar burner, there will be built handling machines to take care of biocoal, a large event with information about biocoal is carried out and the local biochar network with about ten people and entrepreneurs is developed and expanded. The first test model to be built is a simple, modified biochar production model suitable for the horticulturalist. This model, Biochar garden, does not extract heat but produces biochar in a clean and environmentally friendly way. Within the framework of the project, we will build two prototypes and develop them so that they are user[1]friendly and take local conditions into account. They will be used to spread information about biochar and in a practical and educational way show the technology of producing biochar in an environmentally friendly way.
Presentation of the project
The project is located in Ödavata, Emmaboda municipality, South East Sweden. The project adresses problems of enviromental issuses as negative emissions play an increased role in reducing the effects of global warming. Production and use of biochar is a way of creating negative emissions. Objectives of SydostLeader strategy is that the area’s needs and capabilities can then be summarized into three broad goals: 1. Increased attractiveness 2. Balanced and sustainable living 3.Strategic partnerships for local development and growth – The project has a bearing on all of these objectives. The actual results are far beyond expectations and a real success, the results has been spread across Sweden with more than 40 active ambassadors and partners established such as companies, universities, the church, voluntary organizations and the general public. – They are ready to spread and share the knowledge in the rest of Europé SydostLeader has mostly been the funding ans supporting partner. The project has also been designated to the best Leaderproject during this programperiod in comparation with 70 other projects with the motivation: ”whit such a dark result they give us hope on a bright future”
Emblematic character of the project
Quote from our strategy: “We must develop environmental measures that promote the hospitality industry and entrepreneurship and improve the quality of life. Both wind and hydropower as well as bioenergy are areas that can be better developed in our area and many places also have good conditions for alternative renewable energy sources. Measures for climate-smart energy access and a balanced and sustainable living environment are thus crucial for the development area’s future.” Says it all! The project addresses both environmental issues, entrepreneurship and also using those issues in developing there visitors center. There are many different ways the ideas can be transferred to other LAGs and the project has already developed materials and can hold courses and trainings on site in Ödevata and are completely open to sharing their knowledge with others. – So anyone who wants to collaborate, just get in touch via sydostleader.se or directly to Ödevata https://www.odevatagardshotell.se/en/contact/ and you will be provided with material which is produced in English. Some material enclosed.
APPENDIX Report: Ödevata Biochar Project – A Success Story for Sustainability and Innovation 2018-06-21 and 2020-06-26 Project Results: We are pleased to announce that the Ödevata Biochar Project has been an incredible success in every imaginable way. After two years of dedicated work and devotion, the project has yielded a range of impressive results:
● The machines are built, functioning, and actively used on the farm and during visits and events.
● Ödevata has become a highly innovative and exciting meeting place for biochar, transition, and innovative sustainable entrepreneurship.
● Ödevata has evolved into a model for sustainable tourism and is sought after for study visits.
● The project sequesters significant amounts of carbon dioxide on the farm through its biochar production, with a potential sequestration period of 1000 years. The goal is to sequester 120 tons of carbon dioxide annually, and we are well on our way to achieving this.
● A social enterprise has been established to produce garden-friendly biochar. This is a direct result of the biochar project and a collaboration with Växjö diocese.
● Through collaboration with neighbors and community cooperation, homemade biochar has been produced instead of being solely burned, spreading knowledge about biochar and its value.
● Veg Tech, a company, cultivated its first green roof, a sedum roof, as a test using Ödevata’s biochar. This success story has been featured in newspaper reports. Ödevata has the world’s first sedum roof with biochar in the growing substrate in the world on one of its facility’s roofs.
● The biochar project has received extensive media coverage with several newspaper articles spreading knowledge about biochar and its potential.
● Annually, Ödevata has hosted 10 paying study visits to the farm due to the high interest in the innovative biochar project.
● Through volunteer work, you have reached approximately 1500 tourists annually, inspired them, and shared knowledge about biochar.
● You have also engaged 300 schoolchildren in biochar production and use during the project.
● During the project, you have identified valuable applications for biochar, including its use as a filtration system in an aquaponics setup.
● Several researchers from institutions such as Linnaeus University and the Department of Marine Sciences in Gothenburg have shown interest in biochar, although no research project has been initiated yet.
● The company Bioenergy visited Ödevata and has now sold and installed a biochar furnace on a farm outside Stockholm with the knowledge contributed by the project.
● You have delivered biochar to a self-sufficient farm for evaluation, and they now serve as ambassadors for biochar.
● Biochar has undergone analysis and proven to be fantastic for water purification, leading to research projects in collaboration with SLU (Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences) and a wastewater contractor.
● Interest in biochar is steadily increasing, and Ödevata has played a significant role in spreading knowledge about this sustainable material.
● The County Administrative Board of Kalmar County has visited and initiated their own biochar projects as a result of your efforts.
● You have collaborated closely with the organization and association REFARM Linne, and the collaboration has been strengthened through the biochar project.
● The target audience has expanded significantly and now includes a broader audience, from tourists to businesses, municipalities, and organizations. Project Establishment: The project has been established by sharing knowledge with visitors, tourists, and partners, as well as by inspiring and engaging people in sustainability issues. You have also collaborated with various organizations and stakeholders to achieve the project’s purpose and goals, which has been crucial for the project’s success. Intended Target Audience: The project’s intended target audience included tourists in the local area, in Sweden, and in northern Europe, who are interested in transition and sustainability. Additionally, businesses, municipalities, and organizations in the local area. Other Beneficial Target Audiences: Through extensive media coverage and knowledge dissemination, you have reached target audiences that you may not have initially expected. The project has also succeeded in engaging and inspiring a broad audience, including people of different ages and backgrounds. Project Future: It is evident that the Ödevata Biochar Project has achieved its goals and delivered fantastic results for a more sustainable world. The project’s successes are likely to continue, and you have the potential to reach even more target audiences in the future, including farmers, fish farmers, and large heat plants. Your efforts to spread knowledge about biochar and sustainability have laid the foundation for a more sustainable and conscious future. In summary, Ödevata Biochar Project has become an exciting success story that demonstrates how dedication and innovation can positively change the world. The project has not only achieved its goals but has also inspired and engaged a broad audience and partners, and its future looks promising. Continue to spread knowledge about biochar. Other Partners We Collaborated With to Achieve the Project’s Purpose and Goals: Veg Tech AB Refarm Linné Sjöborgen Spetsamåla Gård Markus Vallien Anders Ljungberg Hustech, Jim Johansson Växjö Stift, Äppelkärnan Hemma på Hult Does Ödevata Biochar project continue after the project period ends? 2020-07-01 – 2023-10-31 During the period from June 2020 to October 2023, the time after the project’s conclusion has been a continuous and exciting journey. Our passion for biochar has not only persisted but has also grown in tandem with our knowledge and network. We have continued our mission to spread knowledge about biochar, and its strength has not diminished. Digital Audio File for Easier Dissemination: We have also taken innovative steps, including the creation of a digital audio file that can guide visitors at Ödevata when we cannot be there personally to guide them through our biochar project. Visits and Conferences with a Biochar Theme: We still have an open heart and an open farm for interested visitors who want to learn about biochar production and usage. Interest in biochar has continued to grow, and the demand to visit Ödevata to gain knowledge and inspiration has not waned. We continue to offer study visits, courses, and inspiration meetings.
Interestingly, some conference bookings have focused on Ödevata precisely because of our exciting biochar project. The opportunity to see and experience our biochar production has been the driving force. Biochar Valborg: Biochar Valborg, an event with a strong drive to make a difference, is a project that we have initiated in collaboration with our network, Go Nature Trip. Our vision, although ambitious, is within reach. We want to transform all Walpurgis bonfires in Sweden and perhaps even abroad into biochar bonfires. Biochar Valborg has already been celebrated live in Ödevata for three years and has also reached a digital audience of about 300 people. Additionally, we have invited others to conduct Biochar Valborg at their own locations and together stream our biochar bonfires. We are already planning for Biochar Valborg 2024, which will be live-streamed from a completely different location, and we hope for even more biochar bonfires. Would you like to join and share your fire? Biochar Valborg is now spreading beyond Sweden: Biochar Valborg has now expanded to Biochar Samhain in the autumn. This is a result of our collaboration with the artists Nina Bacos and Anna Bokström, who have now brought Ödevata’s biochar project to Scotland and Italy. They had previously collaborated with us in Bergkvara and conducted a biochar event at Bergkvara Konsthall. We have maintained contact, and together, we celebrated the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain on October 31. It was an online event in collaboration with Grow food Dunoon, Bullwood Nature Trail in Scotland, Diö Konsthall, and Ödevata. The event included our biochar bonfires and a Scottish performance about the battle between the Summer King and Winter King. Through this collaboration, we have shared our knowledge about biochar even further. Ödevata lends out Biochar Barrels/Kon-Tikis for free: We have also lent out our biochar barrels, or Kon-Tikis, for free to other enthusiasts during these three and a half years. Our condition has been that those who borrow them not only use them themselves but also invite neighbors, friends, and other groups to collectively produce biochar and learn more about it. This simple concept has been very successful and has led to meaningful conversations about biochar and sustainability. In Sweden, there are many Biochar Ambassadors and producers: Here is a list of individuals and groups we have been in contact with. Those from whom we have learned, been inspired by, loaned our FREE KON-TIKI to, and/or sold a KON-TIKI to, or who have encountered biochar for the first time through us and have become ambassadors for biochar, helping to spread the knowledge further: Veg Tech AB Örebro bostäder Go Nature Trip Allégården Kastlösa Lisegården Gullabo Holma Folkhögskola Allégården Kastlösa Möllekulla Länsmansgård Marie och Michael Johansson, Stolpabäck Karin och Karolina, Rörshult Care – växtkraft i generationer, Emmaboda Borrabo Gård Kalmar Energi Mattias Gustafsson, EcoTopic AB Skogens Kraft Ellen Nystedt Michelle Södermann Nina Bacos och Anna Bokström Projekt: Wellbeing tourism Naturskyddsföreningen Voxtorps Gården Refarm Linné Sjöborgen Spetsamåla Gård Markus Vallien Anders Ljungberg Hustech, Jim Johansson Växjö Stift, Äppelkärnan Hemma på Hult Våneviks gård JME Bygg Ab,Anna Svarvar, finland Granefors Energi AB Sjöborgen Arne Rasmus Vikner, Stockholms skärgård Kalmar Södra koloniförening Lena Sjöberg, nätverk Mörtfors Skogslunds trädgård och bigårdar Ställdalens byalag Folkets Trädgård Möllekulla Länsmansgård Mölndals kommun Ölands folkhögskola Eva Zwahlen, Emmaboda Jörgen Eklund, Katrineholm Anders Sandkvist, Göteborg Niklas Kronkvist, Bottnansmåla Gård, Holmsjö Börsryd lantbruk, Nybro Jörgen Olssons Lantbruksföretag, Vistagris Skärva gård Mundekulla Skogslyckan HB Ekenäs Gård Kimberly Melkersson Stockamöllan By Eva Oscarsson, Mölndals villakvarter Iwona Slojka, Cross Baltica Michael Li, Digital hjälp och ambassadör för Biokol Valborg HUSHÅLLNINGSSÄLLSKAPET KALMAR-KRONOBERG-BLEKINGE Mittlandsgården Aspö by föreningen Växjö stift, Startade en ekonomisk förening som producerade biokol åt kund Kosters Trädgårdar Skogsbönder i Gullabo Nätverk kvinnliga självhushållare Emma Svensson, Bungemåla Vissefjärda Markus Vallin Halbe Rinsma, Eriksmåla Emma Axelsson, Emmaboda Eva och Andreas Garami, Långasjö Johanna Nanni Söderberg, Refarm Linne Länsstyrelsen i Kalmar län Linne universitetet Alvesta Kommun Several are now biochar producers themselves All of the above have become biochar ambassadors and are helping to spread knowledge about biochar within their networks. Some are solely interested in biochar, while others have started using it in various ways in their locations or communities. Many of them have even become biochar producers and conduct courses and training to further disseminate knowledge. More Highlights We have also had several highlights during this period, including training and courses held by Markus Vallin at Ekoby in Lund and at Holma Folk High School in Höör. Våneviks Gård, which, this autumn, hosted a training day for FOBO in Eksjö. Refarm Linne, which has started and operated its own biochar projects after visiting us. The County Administrative Board of Kalmar has also initiated several biochar projects after receiving training from us. Linnaeus University has been inspired by our project and has seen the practical potential of biochar. The university is now conducting several biochar studies. Biochar is here to participate in saving the world In summary, biochar is an exciting and powerful concept with the potential to have a positive impact on the environment and society. We are confident that more countries and cultures can benefit from biochar and transform their traditional bonfires into sustainable events. This is what we will work towards. Would you like to help
