PROJECTS : 2024 ELARD Cooperation awards

Project n°23

INTRODUCTION

The project is an interregional LEADER cooperation. The project started with Walloon LAGs visiting Flemish bicycle projects, revealing two cooperation opportunities. First, both regions had campaigns to promote cycling: Flanders focused on mobility poverty with cycling schools, while Wallonia aimed at improving fitness through “Je pédale pour ma forme.” These initiatives inspired mutual exchanges and led to the translation and organization of “train the trainer” programs in both languages. Second, the project explored transport poverty among the elderly in residential care centers. Various adapted bicycles were tested and implemented as additional services for the elderly. Both Walloon LAGs and Leader Hageland tested these bicycles in rural care centers, purchasing at least five with LEADER funds. Pilot projects demonstrated the integration of these bicycles into daily operations, with manuals developed for proper use and management. The collaboration concluded with an event showcasing the experiences and outcomes of the campaigns and adapted bicycle initiatives.

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PRESENTATION OF THE PROJECT

First : both regions (Flanders and Wallonia) had awareness campaigns and programs to encourage people to cycle more. In Flanders, the focus is mainly on tackling mobility poverty (establishing cycling schools https://www.defietsschool.be/over-de-fietsschool). In Wallonia, the focus is on encouraging people to exercise more and thereby improve their fitness and health (the program: “Je pédale pour ma forme” https://jppmf.be/). These differences serve as mutual inspiration and lead to an exchange of experiences between the parties. Both Wallonia and Flanders have a “train the trainer” program in their awareness campaigns. Within this collaboration project, the “train the trainer” component was translated into the other language and training sessions have been organized to train interested facilitators.

Secondly : The mutual aim was found, to explore the transport poverty among elderly people in residential care centers, and their possible sustainable solutions . At the start of the cooperation various types of adapted bicycles have been tested and implemented. examples were given of an adapted bicycle as an additional service for the elderly people in a residential care center. Both the Walloon LAG’s and Leader Hageland wished to test the concept in residential care centers in rural areas (LEADER area). Different types of adapted bicycles have been tested during the project. At Least 5 adapted bicycles have been bought by local care centers with the help of LEADER funds.

Adapted bicycles had to be integrated into the daily operations of residential care centers. Within the collaboration, pilot projects have been set up that have served as demonstration projects. When testing these bicycles, manuals have been developed and translated. These were specific manuals for a good use and management of the bikes within the context of an care center, as well for physiotherapist, as for visiting family etc. (Liability, availability & reservation, training, routes, maintenance etc…)

At the end of the collaboration, we organized a closing event where the experiences gained was presented, both in terms of campaigns and in terms of experiences with adapted bicycles.

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PRINCIPAL OBJECTIVES

1. Transfer of knowledge to Walloon partners on how to start a cycling school

a. Developing a course in French

b. Training session

c. Starting a cycling school in Aarschot where Walloon partners can follow the process

2. Transfer of knowledge of the project “Je pédale pour ma forme” to existing cycling school initiatives in Flanders. The Flemish Promoter ensured the recruitment of participants, while the Walloon partners provide:

a. Developing basic materials in Dutch

b. Training session

3. Exchange of experiences on the use of different types of adapted bicycles in nursing homes, between the Hageland and other Walloon LEADER groups. Various types of bicycles would be purchased, both in Flanders and Wallonia, user experiences would be systematically recorded, and the existing manual “Iedereen op de fiets”(=cycling for all) would be used.

a. Setting up pilot/demonstration projects with nursing homes

b. Integrating customized bikes into the routine activities of care homes

c. Mapping out adapted cycling routes

d. Recording experiences/use/points of attention

e. Organizing an exchange day

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ADDED VALUE OF THE PROJECT

Cycling offers numerous benefits, especially in rural areas where public transportation is limited. By enhancing mobility, cycling can significantly improve the quality of life for rural residents. Tackling rural issues is a core activity of LEADER, and this project has notable social, environmental, and economic impacts.

The rise of electric bikes has made cycling a viable transportation option for a broader population. In rural areas, long distances and geographic challenges can affect the acceptance of cycling as a daily mode of transport. However, electric bikes mitigate these challenges. This project involved cooperation between a Local Action Group (LAG) in Flanders, where the landscape is flat and cycling has long been a political and social priority (infrastructure, safety, awareness, education). Electric bikes enable other rural areas with rugged landscapes to catch up. Knowledge transfer in this new context, supported by LEADER, can accelerate this process. Cooperation also opens new perspectives on health and elderly care, themes relevant across Europe.

1. Benefits of Cycling for Rural Mobility are (part one of the project):

Enhanced Accessibility:

Connectivity: Bicycles provide reliable transportation, connecting residents to essential services like healthcare, education, and shopping, which may be spread over large distances in rural areas. Independence: For those without cars, cycling offers an affordable, independent mode of transport, reducing reliance on others and easing access to work, school, etc.

Economic Benefits:

Cost-Effective: Bicycles are inexpensive to purchase and maintain compared to motor vehicles, making them viable for low-income households and newcomers. Local Economy: Increased cycling can boost local economies by encouraging bike-related businesses, such as repair shops and rental services. Environmental Impact:

Sustainability:

Cycling is eco-friendly, reducing carbon emissions and pollution, contributing to a cleaner, healthier environment.

Land Use: Bicycles require less infrastructure than cars, preserving rural landscapes and reducing the need for extensive road networks.

Health and Wellbeing:

Physical Activity: Regular cycling promotes physical fitness, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

Mental Health: Cycling can improve mental health by reducing stress and anxiety, and providing opportunities for social interaction and outdoor activity.

2. Adapted Bicycles in Nursing Homes was the second main topic in the project.

Incorporating adapted bicycles into nursing homes offers significant social and therapeutic benefits:

Social Benefits:

Inclusion: Adapted bicycles, such as tricycles or tandem bikes, enable residents with varying mobility levels to participate in cycling activities, fostering inclusion and community.

Interaction: Group cycling activities encourage social interaction among residents, staff, and family members, combating loneliness and isolation.

Therapeutic Benefits:

Physical Rehabilitation: Adapted bicycles can be part of physical therapy programs to improve strength, balance, and coordination, providing low-impact exercise gentle on the joints.

Cognitive Stimulation: Cycling can stimulate cognitive functions by engaging residents in purposeful, enjoyable activities, helping maintain motor skills and coordination.

Emotional Wellbeing: The sense of freedom and accomplishment from cycling can boost self-esteem and overall happiness among residents.

Practical Implementation:

Pilot Projects: Setting up pilot or demonstration projects in nursing homes can assess effectiveness and refine the approach to integrating adapted bicycles.

Customized Routes: Designing specific cycling routes within or around the nursing home ensures safety and accessibility for all participants.

Experience Recording: Systematically recording user experiences and feedback helps continuously improve the program and address any issues.

In conclusion, promoting cycling in rural areas and integrating adapted bicycles in nursing homes can significantly improve mobility, health, and social inclusion. Teaching people to cycle and providing the necessary infrastructure and support can create a more connected, healthy, and vibrant community. These added values can be copied easily across other European Rural area’s.

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Project n°22

INTRODUCTION

The mobilization of Terra Agraria in Galicia is one of the great challenges that our Autonomous Community has to improve rural production systems linked mainly to primary production, and therefore generate wealth in the territory, being one of the pillars to address the rural demographic challenge.

Following the approval of the Law on the improvement of the agrarian territorial structure of Galicia , where the figure of the “Exchanges with geometric modification “to promote the planning of agricultural areas of interest in an agile manner, the GDR 4 Region of Lugo In 2018, it began to develop, through its own funds, a Pilot Project that would, on the one hand, improve the productive agricultural planning of the parish of Nodar in Friol without having to resort to more complex procedures such as land restructuring, and on the other hand, use this PILOT to work jointly with the General Directorate of Rural Development, establishing a regulatory mechanism that would allow the application of these articles of the Law.

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PRESENTATION OF THE PROJECT

This makes the procedure both quick and very economical, which does not require a large outlay of public funds.

Environmentally, this is a procedure that does not affect the territory of study, since it is only a modification of the existing boundaries, but in no case does it intervene on the landscape or affect environmental elements. It is therefore a figure that 100% respects the existing environment since it does not act on it, helping environmental sustainability, fighting against smallholdings which in itself entails a reduction in the carbon footprint produced mainly by fossil fuels.

From a sociocultural point of view, the project affects the improvement of neighborhood relations, which can usually be made difficult with other more interventionist tools. The Procedure is as we have been saying 100% voluntary which helps maintain relationships of agreement between the neighborhood and allows for greater interaction between them, as well as a greater collaborative spirit.

DEGREE OF CONSOLIDATION OF THE INITIATIVE

The initiative is clearly consolidated, the first swap project developed in the Parish of Nodar in Friol (2 phases)is practically finished. Three others are under construction: parish of Condes (Friol), Vilameá (Guntín), Mosteiro (Outeiro de Rei).

It is worth highlighting the launch of projects in Orders (A Coruña) and in the parish of Cabanelas in A Estrada (Pontevedra) which gives faith to the application and extension of the measure outside the territory of the GDR4.

It is no less important to highlight that the consolidation of the project led to the majority of the agricultural areas of Galicia becoming interested in the project and at the same time the rest of the Rural Development Groups, having this initiative as a proposal within their cooperation plans LEADER strategy for the programming period 2023-2027.

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PRINCIPAL OBJECTIVES

Specifically, this project aims to address the following objectives:

• To advance the development of a simple land-use planning tool aimed at improving the competitiveness of farms by resizing land.
• Create a technological application/platform that allows users to make proposals for territorial modification through exchanges of a given agricultural area.
• To learn formulas for fighting smallholdings in other places where they are being developed through public and/or private initiatives (French SAFER, the reorganisation of ex- communist countries such as Hungary).
• To demonstrate the validity of the tool for different agricultural areas and environments.
• Evaluate the costs of the tool to value it as a valid solution in areas with good road and access infrastructure.
• Establish a legal procedure under the Law for the Improvement of the Agrarian Territorial Structure (METAGA) and the Law on the Recovery of Agricultural Land in Galicia, which can be used as a regulatory basis by the administration (Xunta de Galicia).

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ADDED VALUE OF THE PROJECT

1. Agreement between three GDRs from regions in which the countryside is a basic pillar of their productive economy. It is the first project where very similar regions cooperate in this area and can work on new projects in the area of transformation and marketing of agricultural products.

2. Need to improve the structure of agricultural ownership, reducing smallholdings to make exploitation more efficient through a simpler system with less cost than land consolidation/restructuring.

3. Implement a system of grouping land in areas smaller than the parish where concentrations are usually made.

4. Promote the use of unused land, since when concentrated it can enable the implementation of new agricultural projects.

5. Promote the management of rural property since all plots resulting from the exchange process will have at least a public notarial title.

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Project n°21

INTRODUCTION

The SENIOR SPACE project seeks to favour the creation of communities and territories that are friendly to the elderly, acting on DEMOGRAPHIC CHANGE, making the elderly visible, both in decision-making and in the implementation of services that treat this sector of the population as a generator of employment and not as an irreversible problem, thus facilitating a new economy linked to the silver economy.

Objectives:

-Enhance the contribution of older people and social organisations in the process of territorial development.

-To create friendly and inclusive environments for all people throughout their life cycle and regardless of their circumstances.

-Establish a governance model that incorporates an ageing population perspective in local policy planning.

-Generate and propose strategies, alliances and intervention policies favourable to active ageing.

Actions:

– Awareness-raising campaigns, conferences.

– Elaboration of a Framework of Intervention with the elderly

– Computerised management tool, which measures the friendliness of each community.

– Local Action Plans in each of the municipalities.

– Promotion of volunteering. For further information, the website: https://www.espacioseniorextremadura.es/

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PRESENTATION OF THE PROJECT

It is a LEADER regional cooperation project that unites 6 Development Groups: ADERCO, ARJABOR, LA SERENA, LA SIBERIA, TAGUS and ADESVAL (coordinator). A total of 105 municipalities in six rural territories with a population over 65 years of age of more than 20%. All with the common problem of ageing and population loss. It has been developed from 2021 to December 2022, considering continuity in the next Strategy 2023 – 2027.

The SENIOR SPACE project seeks to raise awareness and act on DEMOGRAPHIC CHANGE, an issue that affects all areas, making the elderly visible, both in decision-making and in ensuring the implementation of services that treat this sector of the population as a generator of employment and not as an irreversible problem. The project deals with one of the most remarkable aspects of demographic change, which is the growth in number and percentage of the elderly in our society. Demographic change is experienced in all developed countries, but in rural areas (where the project is located) it is linked to ageing and depopulation, these being the two main factors that cause demographic change. This project focuses on the elderly, but also aims to facilitate a new economy linked to the silver economy, which means acting on job creation and thus tackling one of the causes of depopulation. The plan has several aspects, which are not watertight departments; in the definition of the thematic area, WORKING ON DEMOGRAPHIC CHANGE was chosen, as it was understood that it was the concept that broadly included the most important aspects of the project, as beyond specific actions in the areas where the cooperation project is being developed, they are aimed at making ageing visible as a condition of social planning and opportunities for rural areas.

The analysis of the economic and demographic situation of the six territories and the current context makes it possible to act: The new model of attention and care that the Regional Government of Extremadura is promoting is largely based on proximity services in rural areas. This new model, together with the transition in the model of care at national and European Union level, means that we propose the project as a proposal to bring the elderly closer, not only as the object of the services, but also as the subject of what they should propose through their participation.

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PRINCIPAL OBJECTVES

• Align with the idea of active ageing of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the new European care model.
• Expand governance understood as the balance of all public agents and civil society in the construction of friendly communities for the elderly.
• The creation of proximity services in rural areas that allow older people to decide where they want to live.
• The creation of employment in rural areas, mainly through the creation of new local services in rural areas.
• To consider the silver economy as a powerful sector in the face of rural depopulation.
• To make the elderly visible as an actor and a driving force for development.

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ADDED VALUE OF THE PROJECT

The project proposes a change of outlook towards the elderly, making them and their environment aware that they are still active members of their community, not only as care seekers, but also as consumers of services.
It generates capacity to fight against the demographic challenge and promotes a strategic development for the territory of action for these reasons:

• A methodology based on raising the awareness of all the actors involved, giving an active presence to the elderly (social innovation and governance).
• Public (town councils) and private collaboration, a line of work that produces alliances and business dynamism through commitment to defining new types of services and generating employment.
• Creation of products or services with an important innovative component such as those linked to proximity services and other specialised services for seniors.
• The local councils and the territory will have a computerised tool to register and continuously improve the degree of friendliness towards the elderly. Coordinated planning of entities and interest groups.
• The project works to align, from the regional space, the transition in the world of care that from Europe, Spain and Extremadura is being promoted towards a new model.
  Espacio Sénior can be replicated in counties with problems of population ageing and unemployment. Actions favouring transferability have already been carried out: the project has been presented at regional and national meetings (RRN and REDR) and in France. LEADER Good Practice Sheet for RRN and the project has been included in the Social Innovation Manual. Some examples: conferences: RRN 16 June 2021, participation in RURALISONS L’EUROPE! UNIS DANS LA RURALITÉ, 16 MARS 2022, participation in the 1st Forum on the Demographic Challenge of Extremadura or in the selection of good practices of national projects.
  With the results of the project, in the Alagón Valley in particular, there is already a line of work on social entrepreneurship linked to proximity services. It is especially aimed at women and qualified young people.
  The project can be transferred to any territory and, without difficulty, to those with similarities in their administrative and population structure: small municipalities, ageing, depopulation, portfolio of dependency services.
  The transfer of the project must always be done with the participation of local actors, the hallmark of LEADER.
  The project pivots on governance (active incorporation of the elderly as object and subject), demographic challenge, generation of employment and enterprise in disadvantaged groups and planning aligned between administrations and interest groups.

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Project n°17

INTRODUCTION

“Green Vinum” is a transnational cooperation project implemented by four Local Action Groups implementing programs of the European initiative CLLD/LEADER, in different regions of Europe. The goal of the transnational cooperation plan is to strengthen the competitiveness of small and medium-sized winemaking and distilling businesses through the pinpointing and promotion of good environmental practices in matters of energy savings, incoming raw materials, and wastes management during the production proceedings of small winemaking/distilling businesses. The process of production and maturation the wine sector faces significant issues in terms of waste and energy consumption that could be improved. A standardized environmental management process could offer every winery, depending on its size, the possibility of reducing waste production and energy demand from a more sustainable production process. In addition, the possible negative effects of climatic instabilities that create production problems could be avoided.

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PRESENTATION

Sustainability, energy, and climate change are increasingly critical issues for the winemaking industry, as it faces the challenge of reducing its environmental impact while producing high quality wines. The winemaking industry is highly dependent on natural resources, including land, water, and energy, and is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events and changes in grape growing conditions. To explore initiatives and strategic plans over sustainability, adaptation to climate change, and mitigating energy use, winemakers in France and Greece were involved in the “Green Vinum” project.In detail the following activities were implemented:

Activity 1: Coordination actions Each partner will dedicate a budget for the required coordination actions, where applicable. These actions are related to the administrative and financial planning and monitoring.

Activity 2: Recording of existing situation on the wineries sector

A.2.1 Recording via research There is already work done in the subjects of sustainable techniques (incl. Waste management), energy efficiency and resilience to climatic change. An external expert with the support of the involved LAGs scaned the existing bibliography in order to offer full reports on the three sectors.

A.2.2 Recording via questionnaires The questionnaires will be drafted by with questions regarding the environmental, sustainable, energy and legal dimensions of a winery’s operation. The process was organized by an external expert, including the process of drafting the questionnaire, distributing and receiving the questionnaires and analyzing the results. Scope was to record the major risks, the critical points of the production process, the energy data and the potential existing innovative or good practices, the problems recorded by the climatic changes.

Activity 3: Creation of Handbook on Proposed Techniques and Best Practices

A.3.1 Handbook on Proposed Techniques and Best Practices A Handbook on Proposed Techniques and Best Practices was be created with the support of an appointed external expert.

The contents of the Handbook is:

1. Summary of the questionnaires results

2. Results about bibliography references – summary)

3. Good practices organized in the 3 sectors: waste management/energy efficiency/climate resilience).

4. Conclusions

Activity 4: Networking, Training and Adaptation

A.4.1- Implementation of international workshops & study visits In each involved area a workshop was organized with the participation of local working groups members. In these workshops the results of activity 2 were also presented and, more importantly, open discussions with the individuals of the field took place, recording views/objections/comments/suggestions.

A.4.2 Sustainable Training and adaptation In each CLLD / LEADER area involved, training courses are organized in the local language, on the proposed techniques and best practices with the participation of experts involved in the project.

A.4.3 Adaptation of proposed techniques The involved wineries that have or are going to adapt sustainability techniques and best practices for sustainable development, will create an innovative network of “green wineries”, implementing specific actions, such as pilot actions for the use and re-use of waste.

Activity 5: communication actions

A.5.1 Network communication actions

A.5.2 Local communication actions

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PRINCIPAL OBJECTIVES

The specific objectives are the following:

• Increase the capacity of territories to propose an integrated tourist offer, connected with local products and wine producers focused not only in wine but also in the bioclimatic method of production.

• Favour employment, job opportunities and the birth of new enterprises, multi-functionality, and diversification of the rural economy.

• Increase the quality of life in rural areas, the attractiveness of rural territories and services to cope with demographic, social and economic changes.

• Training and informing young entrepreneurs in the agri-food sector in the target areas.

• Increase knowledge and awareness on energy saving, energy self-sufficiency, waste reduction and its treatment.

• Networking companies, processes, methodologies, knowledge, and contacts.

• Learning about the impact of climate change on local viticulture.

The central axis of the Strategy is structured in the following General objectives:

• To support wineries about sustainability (incl. waste management), energy efficiency and resilience to climatic changes.

• To record and evaluate the existing situation on the wine industry.

• To offer the possibility of visits and exchanges to wine professionals and relevant experts.

• To create active local working groups for sustainable wine productions and to train these groups.

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ADDED VALUES OF THE PROJECT

The GREEN VINUM partnership presents a complementary dimension, both LAGs and associations of winemakers or independent entrepreneurs, either as partners or as indirect beneficiaries, depending on the participating country operating framework. The main added value of the project is that it was well-tailored to the needs of the involved LAG areas, since it was focused on the most pressing needs of these areas. Moreover, it encompassed several fields, sustainability, comate change, energy efficiency, legal requirements. Furthermore, the project was innovative sine it is generated new processes to be adapted in the involved areas, based on the recording of existing innovative knowledge. Finally, the project promoted the links between actors, creating partnership that would not have existed without LEADER. GREEN VINUM reached fully the relevant beneficiaries of the involved LAG areas, either via direct involvement of wine makers association or via the leverage of the local entrepreneurship recorded. What was also important was that different geographical zones were reached, leading to high level and success exchange of knowledge. The Green Vinum project has been designed and implemented in order to meet all LEADER principles. In detail:

1. Bottom-up approach: the actual needs of local wine makers were recorded and LAGs have implemented the specific project to meet their needs.

2. Area-based approach: The areas involved small, homogenous, socially and functionally cohesive territories, characterised by common traditions, a local identity, a sense of belonging or common needs and expectations.

3. The local partnership: the people who were previously the passive ‘beneficiaries’ of a policy become active partners and drivers of their area’s development;

4. An integrated and multi-sectoral strategy: in all involved areas LAGs explored and addressed the needs and opportunities of the area in an integrated way to achieve the desired common goals.

5. Networking: In all areas the LAGs formed networks of local partners which through its strategy and activities promote links between local actors and others in the development chain.

6. Innovation: the project was innovative sine it is generated new processes to be adapted in the involved areas, based on the recording of existing innovative knowledge.

7. Cooperation: Cooperation via Green Vinum is not an end in itself, there was a clear purpose and benefit in working with others. Cooperation with other regions in the Green Vinum areas was an excellent source of innovation and knowledge transfer for local people and allowed rural areas to address and take advantage of their diversity introducing new perspectives and insights from other areas, importing and exporting successful approaches and good practices. In terms of sustainability, several initiatives have been adopted in the involved areas. Moreover, the sustainability of the project over time is proved by the need for best practices in the winemaking industry which is driven by a range of factors, including consumer demand for sustainable products, the need to comply with regulatory requirements, and the economic benefits of reducing costs through energy efficiency and waste reduction. Adopting best practices recorded in the Green Vimum handbooks and reports could also improve the industry’s resilience to climate change by promoting sustainable land use and reducing the risk of crop losses due to extreme weather events. These outputs could be used by any other area and, moreover, a Green Vinum 2 project has already been designed to implement in the next CLLD/Leader period. To address challenges, the winemaking industry via the “Green Vinum” had the opportunity to adopt best practices for sustainability and energy efficiency, adding value to the local enterprises, local economy and local strategy for different areas. However, a key challenge that French and Greek stakeholders in the winemaking industry encountered refers to the absence of a ‘protocol’ or ‘standard’ that sets out the process steps to implement and monitor sustainability initiatives. On the strategic horizon, ensuring higher safety and quality of wine, good working conditions and treatment of wastewater are high priority sustainability aspects for French and Greek wine producers. Overall, the winemaking industry with Green Vinum project took a proactive approach to sustainability, energy, and climate change in order to ensure its long-term viability and meet the demands of consumers and regulators. By adopting best practices, the industry can reduce its environmental impact, improve its economic performance, and ensure the continued production of high-quality wines for future generations.

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https://www.dropbox.com/t/abBXWhBlQyceEf4Y

Project n°18

INTRODUCTION

The Network of Waterways in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps is a cooperation project between Slovenian and Austrian LAGs, dedicated to raise awareness about the critical importance of conserving drinking water and preserving natural resources across the cross-border area of Kamnik-Savinja Alps (KSA).

At the heart of the initiative was the creation of a 190-kilometre water-themed hiking trail, divided into 11 stages, which guides adventurers past four rivers, three lakes, over 100 springs, 100 streams, and several waterfalls. The project conducted in-depth analyses of 54 springs across the KSA, highlighting the importance of water preservation. Community engagement played a key role, with 10 drinking water festivals organized and 2 student contests to educate the younger generation. Additionally, experience exchanges, workshops, and training sessions for water sommeliers helped spread good practices and foster collaboration between LAGs across borders.

The trail is now featured in the Mountaineering Association of Slovenia’s app and on the Kamnik-Savinja Alps website, making it accessible to a wider audience while promoting sustainable tourism and environmental preservation.

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PRESENTATION OF THE PROJECT

The basic development potential of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps (KSA) is in abundant water resources and pristine nature. The partners cooperated in order to raise awareness about the importance of water as a natural resource and the need to preserve its quality to ensure the long-term development of sustainable tourism. We educated locals about the necessity of safeguarding this valuable asset and preventing irresponsible pollution of river sources. By showcasing the region’s rich water resources to visitors, we want to integrate high-quality springs into a network of water routes – a long walking trail, offering a unique tourism product where visitors can enjoy pure spring water. Additionally, water quality monitoring is regularly conducted at these springs to maintain their pristine condition.

The project has made a significant impact in the KSA region by effectively addressing key environmental and community concerns through a collaborative approach. Key activities included:

• Water quality monitoring: Analysis of 54 springs in the KSA area and additional 15 the surrounding areas, with water quality data accessible via QR codes on metal pots placed near the springs. This has not only provided crucial data on water quality in KSA but has also underscored the importance of preserving these vital resources for the future.

• Water hiking route in KSA: Establishment of the 190-kilometre water route, with goal to heighten awareness of water conservation and promote sustainable tourism. Metal pots were placed next to the springs with drinking water, and the quality of the water in the various springs could be checked via a QR code on the pot. The trail is presented in the Mountaineering Association of Slovenia’s app, on the Kamnik-Savinja Alps website, and there is also a printed map in several languages available in the local Tourism Information Centres.

• Community engagement: The activities were equally distributed among the over 12 stakeholders, primarily local municipalities but also and associations from the region. 10 drinking water festivals were organized, along with 2 contests for elementary school students focused on art, comics, and literature. These activities aimed to raise awareness about the importance of preserving drinking water and fostering a positive attitude towards this vital resource.

• Educational initiatives: The project included professional excursions for knowledge exchange, water tester training, and workshops on the relationship between people and water. Round-table discussions and themed events further highlighted the healing properties of water. Education and training events were also organised for people interested in becoming water sommeliers.

• Tourism development: The project promoted sustainable tourism by designing and testing new holistic tourist products (long distance walking water trail), also water-related events and educational films were implemented. Renovations and new installations, such as drinking fountain in Luče, were also part of the project.

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PRINCIPAL OBJECTIVES

The project had several key objectives, primarily focused on the preservation of clean drinking water in the KSA region. The main aims were twofold: first, to raise awareness about the rich water resources of the KSA and the importance of their conservation; and second, to create green jobs in the area, such as local guides and water sommeliers, thereby promoting sustainable regional development.

Another important objective was to ensure full stakeholder participation in the project’s activities, fostering interconnectivity and regional cooperation. This included revitalizing dormant projects that aligned with the initiative’s goals and encouraging collaboration among municipalities, organizations, and residents.

The project engaged local communities through various activities, such as drinking water festivals, student contests, and educational workshops. These events not only raised awareness about the vulnerability of water resources but also instilled a collective sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation.

The project successfully preserved and improved the quality of 54 springs within the waterway network, contributing to the biotic and landscape diversity of the KSA area. Additionally, it diversified tourism by sustainably linking water sources with the region’s natural and cultural heritage. To support these efforts, promotional materials, including a map in 3 languages, were distributed in local tourist centres.

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ADDED VALUE OF THE PROJECT

The project excelled in its approach to partnership quality by actively promoting stakeholder participation and fostering interconnectivity across the whole KSA region. Through LAGs the project engaged over 12 diverse stakeholders, including municipalities and local associations, has facilitated widespread participation and cooperation, leading to tangible improvements in local environmental and tourism practices. This comprehensive involvement ensured that the project was executed consistently and equitably throughout the entire KSA region. By working collaboratively, partners achieved shared outcomes in their respective areas of the KSA, creating a solid foundation for future efforts.

The cross-border collaboration has ensured that project activities were implemented equitably across the entire KSA region. The LEADER methodology, with its emphasis on bottom-up decision-making and local involvement, has empowered municipalities and local groups to take ownership of the project. This participatory model has led to more effective solutions, as local stakeholders were able to contribute their knowledge and address specific common needs. The engagement of various LAGs and their associated municipalities has built strong networks and relationships between local communities, organizations, and authorities. The collaborative efforts in organizing events and sharing best practices have enhanced community cohesion.

The project focused on local needs, participatory methods, and cross-border collaboration. The project’s success in implementing a comprehensive water trail and engaging a broad spectrum of stakeholders demonstrates the effectiveness of the LEADER model in achieving meaningful and sustainable outcomes. A bottom-up approach, involving municipalities in all stages of the project, proved highly effective. Their input was crucial in shaping and implementing activities. By focusing on local involvement, sustainable development, partnerships, innovation, and capacity building, the project not only meets LEADER’s core criteria but also effectively supports the long-term development and resilience of the region of Kamnik-Savinja Alps.

The project’s strong foundation in community engagement, education, and local economic benefits, combined with opportunities for expansion and the implementation of strategies, suggests that it has significant potential for long-term sustainability and viability. By continuing to adapt and integrate the project into local and regional frameworks, it can remain a valuable resource and continue to provide benefits well into the future. Preserving a natural drinking water in Alp is for the partners a temporary mission, beyond the project. The initiatives did not finish with the project but are ongoing. In the next cooperation knowledge will be shared with a new international partner.

The project has had a significant transnational impact by promoting natural preservation, mutual learning and skills transfer between Slovenia and Austria. Through cross-border collaboration, experience exchange, and capacity building, it has enriched the knowledge and practices of stakeholders from both countries. The collaboration enabled the sharing of innovative approaches and solutions related to water conservation and sustainable tourism. The project organized professional excursions that allowed participants to exchange experiences and learn from each other.

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Project n°16

INTRODUCTION

The Vidzeme rural partnership association “Brasla” (Latvia) in cooperation with the Finnish local action group Kehittämisyhdistys SILMU ry implemented the international cooperation project “Routes across borders in Latvia and Finland” in 2022. As part of the project, nature trail research events, a tourism conference, exchange of experience in Finland and Latvia, as well as tourism infrastructure improvement works were organized.

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PRESENTATION

In 2019, when starting the implementation of the project, the cooperation partners visited each other to jointly study the nature trails in the territories of the municipalities involved in the transnational project, to give their assessments and proposals for their improvement, to gain experience and to find innovative solutions for the creation and improvement of the infrastructure of nature trails. During the research, it was concluded that the trails are relatively often used, are rich in cultural history and natural values ​​that can be preserved for future generations and are necessary for the development of tourism.

In order to find solutions for the improvement, maintenance and conservation of the surveyed trails in the territory of the Vidzeme rural partnership “Brasla”, a tourism conference was organized together with the Nature Conservation Board, Vidzeme University College, regional tourism specialists, geologists, environmental protection inspectors and representatives of the Latvian State Forest Management and other specialists.

Tourism infrastructure developed in the project:

• Improving the infrastructure of Ledurga Dendroparka in Sigulda county.
  • An environmentally friendly, composting facility suitable for people with special needs (BIO toilet) with lighting has been installed in the park area, considering the convenience of visitors, and a hearth/garden fireplace has been installed considering the organization of various events.
  • In the nearby Avotu forest, which is a protected natural monument of local importance, the project has installed information boards, signposts and a rest area, restoring the former charm of the place. Avotu birzs park is located on the bank of the Brasla river and belonged to the owner of the Inciema manor. From Brasla Bay you can see the steep banks of Brasla, which in some places reach a height of 25 meters.
• Well-maintained territory of Augstroze Lielezera in Limbažu district – an almost 1 km long walking trail has been created along the lake, where small rest areas with benches have also been installed to enjoy the untouched nature of Augstroze Lielezera. Thinking about the convenience of Augstroze Lielezera visitors, an environmentally friendly, composting facility from a bag manufacturer has also been installed. In several parishes, in order to ensure awareness and promote the arrangement of tourism infrastructure, a total of 3 information stands have been installed (in Braslava park, near the Puikule manor and Staicele’s Libyan Museum “Pivālind”) and 13 departmental stands (e.g. in Staicele near the tourist information center, Staicele paper factory, Staicele Evangelical Lutheran churches and elsewhere) with descriptions and photographs in places where they were needed, as well as a well-equipped rest area in Puikule manor park, where a table with benches has been installed.
• At the Zilākalns Cultural History and Visitor Center “ZTornis” of Valmiera region, the tourism infrastructure has been improved, tourist information stands have been placed, tables with benches have been installed and a fire place has been created.
• Recognizing the values ​​of Riebiņa Lake, Straupe Parish, Cēsi County, six recreation areas, which are already traditionally popular with vacationers, have been improved, where three tables with benches, six separate benches and an information board have been installed, on which visitors are informed that they are located in a specially protected micro-reserve of forest habitats, in which essential protected natural values, as well as installed visitor flow counter.

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PRINCIPAL OBJECTIVES

The aim of the project is to promote the transfer of knowledge and innovation in the territories of rural areas, strengthening the connection between the territories of the counties, stimulating the cooperation of the municipality and private persons (legal and physical) in order to ensure informed and sustainable use of the heritage of natural values ​​in tourism.

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ADDED VALUE OF THE PROJECT

The project “Routes across borders in Latvia and Finland” is a successful example of international cooperation and promotion of sustainable development, especially in rural areas. Cooperation promotes the exchange of best practices between countries, ensuring that innovative and sustainable solutions for tourism development are used in both countries. The project also contributes to the preservation of cultural and natural heritage, which is an important contribution to strengthening international cooperation. Transnational cooperation expands both the tourism offer and the opportunities for local communities to benefit from the results of this project in the long term. It promotes the development of local areas, the use of tourism potential and international cooperation, which is essential both in the short-term and in the long-term perspective.

The successful implementation of the project is an inspiration for further cooperation with the Finnish local action group, with the launch of a new project “The story of Nordic Manors – Time to Continue”, which indicates a positive continuation and strengthening of cooperation in the future. The added value of the project is the ability of both municipalities and private individuals to cooperate, the ability to cooperate between different rural areas in Latvia and Finland, promoting the exchange of knowledge and the introduction of innovations. The implementation of the project improves the access of local residents and tourists to natural values, as well as helps to create recognition and attract visitors, thus contributing to the development of the local economy. Improving tourism infrastructure, such as the creation of walking trails and the improvement of recreation areas, improves the experience of visitors and promotes the development of nature tourism, the preservation and sustainable use of natural heritage.

Infrastructure improvements, such as the installation of BIO toilets and the improvement of rest areas, make tourist attractions more accessible to the general public. The solutions created as a result of the project are environmentally friendly and sustainable.During the project implemented in Finland, several important tasks were carried out, which contributed to the development and improvement of tourism routes. The project promoted closer cooperation between tourism operators, representatives of local governments and businessmen, thereby improving the tourism offer in the Finnish region. This helped create a common understanding of route development needs and the resources needed to maintain them sustainably. As a result of the project, a guide map was developed that covered several nature trails, promoting their recognition and promotion to the general public. In addition, a database of the region’s trail network was created and an electronic guide was developed, which improved the availability of information and strengthened the recognition of local trails. See the video here- https://ej.uz/hmqw, https://ej.uz/xi2t, https://ej.uz/5d43

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Project n°15

INTRODUCTION

CHILD project was focusing on children’s wellbeing. The aim of the project was to build partnerships using local resources, tools and methodologies as well as knowledge transfer on the subject of children´s wellbeing. During 15 months of this activity we were exchanging of good practices among partners, establishing cooperation between NGOs, schools and peers, introducing new solutions to schools and organizations working with children and youth and changing of eating and ecological habits among project participants. During the project, 6 study visits were held – two in each country, a number of online meetings and workshops for children, as well as a competition for primary schools, a sports event for children and young people, and a conference summarizing the project in Poland.

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PRESENTATION

The activities of the CHILD project began in March 2023, although talks with partners took place several months ago, when the first official activities were undertaken. The logo of the project was prepared – which referred to all 3 partners and under this banner joint activities began.

In May 2023, 2 study visits took place – in Finland and Sardinia. Then, in September, the project partners came to Poland, and in October another group went on a study trip to Sardinia. The study visits ended with a trip to Finland in March 2024 and a visit of the partners to the conference summarizing the project in Poland in May 2024.

The visits were attended by representatives of local authorities, educational institutions and representatives of NGOs. We wanted the participants to be able to exchange good practices in the field of working with children and youth, thus transferring good solutions to our country.

In the meantime, online meetings of the partners were held to discuss the next steps of the project. In May 2023, a webinar was also held with specialists from each partner country, who presented interesting initiatives implemented by them in their countries. The webinar was open to the public and was attended by representatives of interested entities, including educational institutions.

At the beginning of 2024, workshops on ecology and artistic activities carried out jointly by Poland and Finland took place. Children taking part in workshops in Poland connected online with Finland. The workshops were aimed at increasing children’s awareness of chemicals in water and counteracting the pollution of water reservoirs. At the same time, workshops in this field were also held in Finland. The Italian partner also joined these activities, preparing a story with the children about the protection of the seas and the use of garbage from beaches. In Poland, there were also workshops “Immersed in green”, in which children prepared their costumes and then recorded pro-ecological messages in a nearby park. In addition, each country also carried out its own individual activities. In Poland, 3 types of workshops for children were held, these were art classes – in the field of aromatherapy, classes in sewing small cuddly creatures – “Eaters of sorrows”, as well as workshops “Secrets of the winter forest” – where children learned about the world of forest fauna and flora. A large sports event was also organized – Runmageddon Kids – where children’s physical activity and the principles of healthy competition were promoted.

In the course of the project, there was also a competition for primary schools “A healthy mind in a healthy body”, in which schools sent films with the participation of children, in which the possibilities of active spending of time by students during lessons or breaks were presented. The whole event ended with a conference summarizing the project, during which the special guest was also invited to give a presentation on the possibilities of introducing innovations to Polish schools, project activities in each country were summarized and awards were given to schools participating in the film competition.

554 children took part in all project activities in Poland, plus additional children involved in the preparation of films promoting physical activity (11 schools). Another 80 people took part in the study visits. Therefore, the project affected a large number of inhabitants of our area, thus contributing to increasing its effects in the field.

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PRINCIPAL OBJECTIVES

Building the partnership among partner’s countries and knowledge transfer on the subject of children´s wellbeing, which can help institutions, NGOs etc. improve activities and help addressed to children.

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ADDED VALUES OF THE PROJECT

From the very beginning, the CHILD project implemented the assumptions of the LEADER programme, thus responding to the needs of the inhabitants of the LAG area in an even better way. The assumptions of the project were created when creating the LAG’s strategy for the next years of activity, thus the tasks formulated were bottom-up and directed to a specific territory and the needs of its inhabitants. By combining a range of topics, including diet, leisure, health, etc. the entire integrated scope of the project was built, aimed at the well-being of the child. The participation of diverse actors (LAGs as project partners), children and young people, representatives of authorities, educational institutions and NGOs, further underline the complex scope of the project and thus its wide range of impacts. Innovative tools and activities were also used in the course of the project. For the first time in the area of operation of the “Ziemia Pszczyńska” LAG, an event called Runmageddon Kids took place – which is known as a sports brand in other regions or countries.

There has been interest from sports clubs to continue this topic in the future.

3 partners – 3 Local Action Groups – were involved in the partnership structure. Two of them in financial terms, one participated in the project at no cost. The choice of partners was not accidental. The project connected both the north of Europe and its south area, and the link of this project was Poland located in the central part.

Topics in the field of education, health support, and body hardening, which were the flagship for Finland, were combined with the topic of diet and leisure, which were presented in the project by Sardinia. Poland skillfully combined the whole, presenting its wide range of activities in the field of child well-being, thus tying together the scope of project activities.

The cooperation mechanisms developed by LEADER were an incredible help to undertake project activities. The possibilities of searching for partners in Europe or the common direction of the LAG’s activities certainly laid a strong foundation for the entire project, thus showing that the added value of LEADER projects is noticeable.

The partnerships that have been established in the course of the project have already shown that the next stage of the project is possible and the activities can be continued. Educational institutions that got to know each other in the course of the project are already starting talks about further joint projects, including the ERASMUS program (Poland-Finland). Non-governmental organizations working in the field of support for disabled children are also taking steps to jointly exchange experiences (Poland-Finland). There were also talks on joint sports activities (sports clubs from Polish and Italy) or further activities within the partnership of Local Action Groups.

CHILD thus enabled the exchange of experiences, thanks to which the actors involved in the project were able to get to know each other and now take further joint activities. The project has brought many benefits in terms of mutual learning and skills transfer. Through the organization of workshops, its participants could tangibly learn about each other’s good practices, which they can then transfer to their countries. The project has therefore shown that cooperation within many countries and institutions can contribute to increasing both the awareness of residents on a specific topic and also gives the opportunity to learn about new cultures, customs and history of partner countries.

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Project n°11

INTRODUCTION

The project “PTIS – Projeto Transnacional de Inclusão Social” (Transnational Social Inclusion project), financed by FEADER, through the Portuguese 2020 Rural Development Program, had as partners two LAGs from the north of Portugal (ADRIMAG and Associação Douro Histórico) and several public and private entities from Cape Verde and São Tome and Príncipe. The idea of the transnational cooperation project emerged following the experience acquired by the two LAGs, in the implementation of projects that promote social inclusion of population groups that reveal great levels of social fragility in their territories, mobilizing the integrated action of different agents and local resources. As a way of disseminating this experience, this project was created, implemented mainly in Cape Verde, but also in São Tomé and Príncipe, where children and young people were the target audience.

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PRINCIPAL OBJECTIVES

The project was designed based on the promotion of entrepreneurial attitudes, family farming, the social integration of children and young people, the training of families and the protection of the rights of children and young people. The objectives were achieved by promoting entrepreneurial attitudes among young people; promotion social integration from a perspective of community involvement of children and young people; the training of families; training children and leaders through activities aimed at the target audience; the protection of the rights of children and young people; the development of technical support actions for the self-organization of the inhabitants.

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THE ADDED VALUE OF THE PROJECT

Cooperation is one of LEADER principles and is essential for effective intervention in territories, responding the problems, needs and different expectations. To achieve this, it´s important to leave the comfort zone, look for partners, invest in innovation, dissemination and awareness, which is why this was the main objective for the construction and execution of this project.

A broad partnership was established, through several collaboration protocols between the two Portuguese LAGs and public and private partners from Cape Verde and São Tomé and Príncipe, countries that belong to the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries, including the Educational and Community Project of Terra Boa, Middle School Olavo Moniz, Sal Municipality, Porto Novo Municipality and Água Grande Municipality.

The partnership established was essential for the pursuit of the objectives, as well as for the success of their execution.

Terra Boa is a very poor neighbourhood located in Espargos City, on Sal Island, Cape Verde, where more than 60% of residents are children and young people, where the majority of the population lives in degraded houses without access to running water and electricity.

The Educational and community project of Terra Boa is an association created by residents of that community and their goal is to promote health care, education and nutrition for children and young people in that community. Aware of this reality and because of the experience of the LAGs in implementing social inclusion projects, they promoted a Social Entrepreneurship Competition, aimed at young people in those territories, who had to present innovative and creative project ideas to be implemented in Terra Boa and that would have a significant impact there. Of the young people who submitted applications, 22 were selected to replicate their ideas in the Terra Boa Community. The 22 young people travelled to Cape Verde, to participate in a Social Entrepreneurship Boot Camp, putting their projects into practice in that same community.

In addition to promoting entrepreneurial skills among young Portuguese people, with the promotion of a program of pedagogical and recreative activities, the Bootcamp allowed knowledge Cape Verde´s social reality, as well as the exchange and sharing of experiences, training and inclusion of Cape Verdean children and young people. The work was carried out to improve the Association´s facilities, educational activities and artistic expression, physical and plastic expression, promotion of sessions to encourage entrepreneurship and vocational guidance and actions in the community to raise environmental awareness. The seed of generosity remained in this community, the desire to continue providing education to those children and young people, aware that this is the key to a life with better conditions.

The partnership continues, with permanent contacts between the partners involved. The contacts between Portuguese young people and cape Verdean children and young people had an effective impact in both territories, promoting the sustainability of the project and replication, particularly for other LAGs.

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