Event 2

The local participatory sessions were launched in February 2023 in all territories, with open meetings and presentations organised to introduce the qualitative survey to local key stakeholders (local promoters, activists and experts).

All contents (texts, names, pictures) referring to participants have been anonymised for data protection and privacy purposes. Pictures published on the partners’ webpages have been duly authorised by participants.

The points raised by the Gorno, Wiazowna and Elblag communities (Poland) focussed on the following contents:

Górno:

The resources:

1. Mała Kadzielnia (former quarry): This recreationally developed area offers various amenities such as a stadium, market, and bar. It serves as a popular gathering place for locals and visitors, providing opportunities for leisure activities and community events.
2. Lagoon in Cedzyna: The lagoon attracts tourists from Kielce and serves as a recreational spot. Its scenic beauty and water-based activities make it a popular destination for relaxation and enjoyment.
3. Miniature Park in Krajno: The Miniature Park in Krajno offers a unique experience for visitors, showcasing miniature replicas of famous landmarks and attractions. It serves as an educational and entertaining destination, attracting tourists interested in cultural and historical exhibits.
4. Proximity to Swietokrzyski National Park and Łysica: Górno benefits from its proximity to the Swietokrzyski National Park and Łysica, which are known for their natural beauty and biodiversity. These areas provide opportunities for hiking, nature exploration, and eco-tourism.
5. Developed network of bicycle paths and ski slope: The presence of a well-developed network of bicycle paths encourages outdoor activities and promotes eco-friendly transportation. Additionally, the ski slope caters to winter sports enthusiasts, attracting visitors during the snowy season.
6. Developed agrotourism: Górno benefits from a thriving agrotourism sector. Visitors can experience rural life, engage in farm activities, and enjoy locally produced food and products. Agrotourism provides economic opportunities for the local community while offering visitors an authentic and sustainable travel experience.
7. Active young people and seniors, Rural Housewives’ Clubs: The presence of active young people, seniors, and Rural Housewives’ Clubs highlights the community’s engagement and social cohesion. These groups contribute to the local culture, organise events, and support initiatives that promote the region’s development.

Challenges:

1. Large number of tourists and littering: The popularity of the Cedzyna Lagoon attracts a significant number of tourists, leading to challenges related to waste management. Efforts should be made to educate visitors about responsible tourism practices and implement effective waste disposal and recycling systems.
2. Pro-environmental awareness development: While there may be existing environmental awareness among various groups, continuous efforts are needed to enhance and expand this awareness. Focus should be placed on environmental education for adults to promote sustainable practices and behaviours.
3. Grass burning: Grass burning poses a threat to the environment and air quality. Implementing awareness campaigns, enforcing regulations, and promoting alternative methods of vegetation management can help mitigate this issue.
4. Land fertilisation and runoff: The excessive use of fertilisers in agricultural practices can result in runoff, which pollutes rivers and water bodies. Encouraging sustainable farming practices, promoting responsible fertiliser use, and implementing measures to minimise runoff are crucial for preserving water quality.

Actions taken:

1. Environmental actions in schools: Conducting environmental activities and initiatives in schools fosters eco-consciousness among the younger generation. These actions may include environmental education programs, tree planting, recycling campaigns, and the establishment of school gardens.
2. Regular environmental clean-up campaigns: Organising periodic clean-up campaigns helps raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a clean and litter-free environment. These campaigns encourage community participation and provide an opportunity for locals to take pride in their surroundings.

In conclusion, Górno possesses various resources that contribute to its attractiveness as a tourist destination. However, it also faces challenges related to waste management, environmental awareness, grass burning, and land fertilisation. The actions taken, such as environmental initiatives in schools and regular clean-up campaigns, demonstrate the community’s commitment to addressing these challenges and fostering a sustainable environment for both residents and visitors.

In Wiązowna:

The resources:

1. Good climate: Wiązowna benefits from a favourable climate, which can attract visitors and provide a pleasant living environment for residents. The climate may offer opportunities for outdoor activities and agricultural pursuits.
2. Common rooms and nature reserves: The presence of common rooms and nature reserves provides spaces for community gatherings, events, and recreational activities. These areas contribute to the well-being and social cohesion of the community.
3. Rivers Mienia and Świder: The rivers Mienia and Świder offer natural beauty and potential for water-based activities. They can serve as attractive destinations for fishing, boating, and nature exploration, enhancing the recreational opportunities in Wiązowna.
4. Water bodies and bathing places: The presence of water bodies and bathing places provides residents with opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and relaxation. These natural features contribute to the quality of life in the community.
5. Eco-associations: The existence of eco-associations indicates a commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices. These associations can play a crucial role in promoting environmental awareness and organising initiatives related to conservation and ecological education.
6. Parks: Parks offer green spaces for recreation, leisure activities, and community events. They contribute to the aesthetics of the town and provide a place for residents to connect with nature.
7. Schools and other institutions: Educational and community institutions such as schools, libraries, and cultural centres play a vital role in Wiązowna’s resources. These institutions provide opportunities for learning, social interaction, and community engagement.
8. Public transport: Access to public transport facilitates mobility and connectivity within and beyond Wiązowna. It enables residents to commute, access services, and reduces reliance on private vehicles, contributing to sustainable transportation practices.
9. Well-functioning centre of social services: A well-functioning centre of social services offers support and resources to residents in various aspects of their lives. It enhances the community’s social infrastructure and contributes to the well-being of individuals and families.

Challenges:

1. Opposition of the people: The presence of opposition among community members can hinder progress and collaboration. Addressing differences in opinions and fostering open dialogue can help mitigate this challenge and promote unity.
2. Attitude of entitlement in the community: An entitlement mentality can hinder community development and cooperation. Encouraging a sense of shared responsibility, civic engagement, and participation can help overcome this challenge and promote a collective mindset.
3. Inactive groups of working age: The presence of inactive groups of working-age individuals can impact community vitality and participation. Efforts should be made to encourage engagement, create opportunities for involvement, and address potential barriers to active participation.
4. Littering of vacant lots: Littering of vacant lots detracts from the aesthetics of the community and can have environmental consequences. Implementing education campaigns, enforcing regulations, and promoting responsible waste disposal can help address this issue.
5. Two national routes: The presence of two national routes may bring increased traffic and associated challenges such as congestion and road safety. Implementing traffic management measures, infrastructure improvements, and promoting alternative modes of transportation can help alleviate these challenges.
6. Unreliable waste segregation by people: Inconsistent waste segregation practices by residents can hinder recycling efforts and waste management efficiency. Enhancing education on proper waste sorting techniques, providing clear guidelines, and improving infrastructure for waste collection and recycling can help address this challenge.
7. Waste sorting plant in the municipality: The presence of a waste sorting plant within the municipality can pose challenges such as noise, or other environmental concerns. Ensuring that the plant operates within regulatory guidelines, addressing community concerns, and promoting transparency can help mitigate potential conflicts.

Actions taken:

1. Discounts for waste composting: Incentivizing waste composting through discounts encourages residents to engage in environmentally friendly practices. By offering reduced rates for composting services or composting bins, the municipality promotes the reduction of organic waste and the production of nutrient-rich compost for gardening and landscaping purposes.
2. Subsidies for replacing heating stoves: Providing subsidies for replacing old and inefficient heating stoves encourages residents to transition to cleaner and more energy-efficient heating systems. By offering financial support or grants, the municipality promotes the use of eco-friendly heating alternatives such as modern wood-burning stoves, pellet stoves, or other sustainable heating technologies.
3. Regular environmental clean-up campaigns: Organising regular environmental clean-up campaigns helps raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a clean and litter-free environment. These campaigns involve community participation and encourage individuals to take responsibility for their surroundings. By providing opportunities for residents to actively contribute to the cleanliness of their community, these initiatives foster a sense of pride and environmental stewardship.

In Elbląg:

The resources:

1. Developed network of bicycle paths: Elbląg boasts a well-developed network of bicycle paths, providing residents and visitors with safe and convenient routes for cycling. This infrastructure promotes active transportation, reduces traffic congestion, and encourages a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.
2. Developed city parks (especially Bażantarnia and Dolnika): The presence of well-maintained city parks, such as Bażantarnia and Dolnika, offers green spaces for recreational activities, relaxation, and community events. These parks provide opportunities for residents to connect with nature, engage in outdoor activities, and enhance their overall well-being.
3. Active young people and seniors, Youth City Council, non-governmental organisation actions: Elbląg benefits from the involvement of active young people and seniors in the community. Their engagement, along with the initiatives of the Youth City Council and non-governmental organisations, contributes to the social and cultural vibrancy of the city. These groups organise events, projects, and campaigns that promote community development, foster creativity, and address various social issues.
4. Support from local policymakers: Elbląg enjoys support from local policymakers who recognize the value of community development and the importance of preserving and enhancing the city’s resources. Their collaboration with residents, businesses, and organisations helps shape policies and initiatives that promote sustainability, economic growth, and a high quality of life.
5. Some infrastructural interventions: Elbląg has seen infrastructural interventions aimed at improving the city’s amenities and services. These interventions may include the development of public spaces, renovation of historic buildings, improvements in transportation infrastructure, or the enhancement of utilities. Such interventions contribute to the overall attractiveness and functionality of the city.

Challenges:

1. Lack of cohesion due to city rebuilding: Elbląg faced significant destruction during World War II and was subsequently rebuilt, resulting in a lack of historical cohesion. The mixture of old and new structures may present challenges in creating a unified architectural and urban design aesthetic. Efforts to promote cohesive urban planning, preservation of historical elements, and the development of a distinct city identity can help overcome this challenge.
2. Non-environmentally friendly local policy: The absence of environmentally friendly local policies can hinder sustainability efforts in Elbląg. This may include inadequate waste management practices, limited renewable energy initiatives, or a lack of emphasis on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Adopting environmentally conscious policies, promoting energy efficiency, and encouraging sustainable practices can address this challenge and contribute to a greener city.
3. Climate change and infrastructure policy: Elbląg may face challenges related to climate change, such as rising temperatures and extreme weather events. Inadequate infrastructural policies that do not account for climate change mitigation and adaptation measures can exacerbate these issues. Implementing climate-resilient infrastructure, such as green spaces, urban heat mitigation strategies, and efficient water management systems, can help address the challenges associated with climate change.
4. Lack of space for common activities: Insufficient public spaces for communal activities can limit opportunities for social interaction and community engagement. The lack of parks, plazas, and gathering spaces may hinder the development of a vibrant public life. Investing in the creation and enhancement of public spaces that cater to various age groups and foster community interaction can help address this challenge.
5. Issues with the public transportation system: Elbląg’s public transportation system may face challenges that affect its efficiency and accessibility. Limited routes, unreliable schedules, and inadequate infrastructure can deter residents from using public transport. Prioritising public transportation investments, improving connectivity, and promoting sustainable mobility options can help create a more efficient and attractive public transportation system.
6. Safety issues in certain neighbourhoods: Some local neighbourhoods in Elbląg may face safety concerns, which can impact residents’ well-being and quality of life. Issues such as crime rates, inadequate lighting, or insufficient security measures can create a sense of insecurity. Implementing community policing strategies, enhancing urban planning for safety, and promoting neighbourhood watch initiatives can help address safety issues and create safer living environments.

Actions taken:

1. Construction and renewal of a network of cycle paths. At the same time, public transport and its accessibility is an issue.
2. Development of urban green spaces. Prioritising large spaces at the expense of micro-green spaces.
3. Supporting residents’ groups such as a youth council or senior citizens’ clubs. At the same time, some of the residents’ green ideas (e.g. the development of micro green spaces is rejected)

In Starachowice:

The resources:

1. Lots of green areas.
2. Proximity to the national park.
3. Developed network of bicycle paths.
4. Active young people and seniors, Youth city council, non-governmental organisation actions, volunteers.
5. Support from community service centre.

Challenges:

1. Development of wilderness areas.
2. Revitalization of “Piachy”.
3. Replacement of heat sources estate.
4. Further development of the sewage system.
5. Afforestation of land.
6. Building environmental awareness.
7. Integration and greater activity of children, youth and the elderly.

Actions taken:

Participants in the meeting decided that the most important thing is environmental education. Discussion of a specific idea will take place at future meetings.

The points raised by the Cosenza Panebianco and the Magione communities (Italy) focussed on the following contents:

In Cosenza Panebianco:

Panebianco is an un-green neighbourhood that requires sensitization towards environmental issues and sustainable practices. The lack of awareness and engagement in green initiatives and practices may contribute to the neighbourhood’s current state. Efforts should be made to educate residents about the importance of environmental conservation, resource efficiency, and sustainable living.

Another challenge in Panebianco is the absence of meeting and social spaces, hindering the development of strong community relationships. Establishing communal spaces, such as parks, community centres, or gathering areas, can provide opportunities for residents to interact, socialise, and cultivate relationships. These spaces can become hubs for community activities, events, and initiatives.

Furthermore, there is a lack of proposed activities and initiatives in the existing spaces of Panebianco. It is crucial to identify and promote a diverse range of activities that cater to the interests and needs of the residents. These activities can include cultural events, sports programs, workshops, and educational campaigns. By offering engaging and inclusive initiatives, the neighbourhood can foster a sense of belonging, encourage participation, and strengthen community bonds.

The neglect of public green spaces and roads in Panebianco is another challenge that needs attention. Regenerating and maintaining these areas can significantly enhance the aesthetics and functionality of the neighbourhood. It involves activities such as landscaping, tree planting, installing benches or seating areas, improving lighting, and ensuring proper maintenance. These actions contribute to creating an inviting and well-cared-for environment that residents can enjoy and take pride in.

To address these challenges, activating the participation of the inhabitants is crucial. Encouraging residents to take ownership of their community and involving them in decision-making processes can lead to more sustainable and vibrant neighbourhood development. Initiatives such as neighbourhood associations, community meetings, and participatory planning processes can facilitate active involvement, empowering residents to contribute their ideas, talents, and resources to improve the common spaces and overall quality of life in Panebianco.

Overall, revitalising Panebianco requires a comprehensive approach that includes sensitising residents towards environmental issues, creating meeting and social spaces, proposing diverse activities, regenerating public green areas and roads, and fostering resident participation. By addressing these aspects, Panebianco can transform into a greener, more vibrant, and inclusive neighbourhood that meets the needs and aspirations of its inhabitants.

In Magione:

By promoting conscious practices, even administrations are more motivated to implement awareness-raising actions among the citizens, allowing us to effectively address issues that are important to each of the community members.

Of vital importance is the constant dissemination of good practices and the structuring of a model that is agreeable to every subject to whom the project is presented, and that is continuously updated to encourage active participation.

In the learning process, activities that directly involve participants play an important role, enabling them to easily grasp topics and technical notions that may initially seem difficult to understand.

All of this could be put into practice using non-formal education methods such as creating workshops that consider the general level of knowledge on a specific topic and using computer applications like Kahoot.

Many of the suggestions for the Co-Green project involve a focus on communication, or rather, effective communication that triggers an empathetic mechanism to awaken a shared sense of involvement and participation in project actions, activities, and initiatives, aiming to raise awareness and consciousness about the importance of every small gesture.

Indeed, it is a priority to promote conscious practices and implement awareness-raising actions by administrations to address important issues. There is a widespread need for constant dissemination of good practices and the development of a shared model that encourages active participation.

Direct involvement of participants through activities and the use of non-formal education methods, such as workshops and computer applications, are seen as crucial in facilitating understanding and engagement. Effective communication plays a significant role, aiming to awaken a sense of involvement and participation in project actions and raise awareness about the importance of every small gesture.

The points raised by the Primorsko-Goranska Županija (PZG) community (Croatia) focussed on the following contents:

Building an effective network requires a thoughtful approach that fosters collaboration, knowledge sharing, and long-term sustainability. In this commentary, we will explore various points related to network development, including good practices, education, communication strategies, and sustainable growth. These points aim to strengthen the network’s impact and ensure its longevity.

1. Sharing Good Practice and Study Visits:

One of the keys to success in any network is the sharing of good practices. Study visits provide an excellent opportunity for members to learn from each other’s experiences, exchange ideas, and gain valuable insights. By organising regular study visits, the network can facilitate cross-pollination of innovative ideas and approaches, ultimately benefiting all participants.

2. Education on Different Topics:

Continuous education is vital for the growth and development of network members. By organising educational sessions or workshops on various topics relevant to the network’s objectives, participants can acquire new knowledge and skills. This shared learning experience strengthens the network’s collective expertise and enhances its overall effectiveness.

3. Regular In-Person Meetings and Information Sharing:

Face-to-face interactions play a crucial role in building strong connections and fostering meaningful collaborations. Therefore, it is important to organise periodic in-person meetings, ideally once every three months. These meetings should be held in different locations around the County to accommodate participants from various regions. Additionally, establishing effective communication channels between meetings ensures that information is shared in a timely manner, promoting continuous engagement and collaboration.

4. Capacity and Roles:

To optimise the network’s operations, it is essential to discuss and assign clear roles and responsibilities to its members. This includes tasks such as writing texts, public relations, photography, and imaging. By clearly defining these roles, the network can leverage the unique skills and expertise of its members, ensuring efficient task execution and avoiding duplication of efforts.

5. Balancing Internal and External Communication:

Striking a balance between internal and external communication is crucial for the network’s success. Internally, the network should foster open and transparent communication channels among its members, facilitating idea sharing and problem-solving. Externally, the network should consider utilising platforms like social media, specifically Facebook or Instagram, to showcase its activities, engage with stakeholders, and attract wider attention.

6. Shared Digital Platform:

Creating a shared Google file for stakeholders within the network to access can serve as a centralised repository for shared interests, ideas, and solutions. This platform enables efficient collaboration and information sharing, providing members with a valuable resource to draw upon and contribute to collectively.

7. Mailing List and Data Protection:

Establishing a mailing list is an effective means of disseminating information to network members. However, it is essential to ensure compliance with relevant data protection laws to safeguard individuals’ privacy and maintain trust. Adhering to data protection regulations ensures that sensitive information is handled appropriately and that communication remains secure and compliant.

8. Long-Term Sustainability:

To ensure the network’s longevity, it is crucial to explore sustainable funding models that minimise financial burdens and time commitments for participants. This may involve seeking external funding opportunities, collaborating with local organisations, or exploring revenue-generating activities. By discussing and implementing sustainable strategies, the network can continue to thrive and fulfil its objectives in the long run.

9. Sub-Groups Based on Sector of Interest:

To cater to the diverse needs and interests of network members, establishing sub-groups based on sectors of interest can be beneficial. These sub-groups allow for focused discussions, knowledge exchange, and targeted initiatives within specific domains. By encouraging specialisation, the network can facilitate deeper engagement and deliver more tailored solutions.

The points raised by the Karditsa community (Greece) focussed on the following contents:

The community of Karditsa demonstrates a high level of involvement in participatory processes, with individuals engaging either as representatives of civil society organisations or as active citizens. This active participation indicates a strong commitment to shaping their community and influencing decision-making processes.

The participatory processes in Karditsa have been effectively managed in most cases. This implies that there is proper facilitation, coordination, and organisation of these processes to ensure meaningful participation and constructive outcomes. Effective management involves creating an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are heard, respecting the input of all stakeholders, and fostering open dialogue and debate.

A key factor contributing to the success of participatory processes is the adequate representation of different views. It is essential to ensure that a wide range of stakeholders, including diverse social, economic, and cultural groups, have the opportunity to participate. This inclusivity allows for a more comprehensive understanding of community needs, concerns, and aspirations, leading to well-rounded decision-making.

The existence of opportunities for dialogue and debate is another crucial success factor for participatory processes. By creating spaces and platforms for stakeholders to express their opinions, engage in discussions, and exchange ideas, it promotes a more robust decision-making process. Meaningful dialogue fosters mutual understanding, enables the exploration of different perspectives, and helps identify common ground for consensus-building.

Overall, stakeholders in Karditsa express satisfaction with their participation in the process, the level of transparency, and their contribution to the outcome. This indicates that the participatory processes have been perceived as fair, inclusive, and transparent, where stakeholders feel their voices were heard and their contributions were valued. It reinforces the notion that involving citizens in policy-making processes can enhance their sense of ownership and empowerment.

Furthermore, participatory processes in policy-making can help build trust between citizens and local authorities. When community members have the opportunity to actively engage in decision-making, they develop a sense of agency and confidence in their local institutions. Trust is fostered through transparency, accountability, and the recognition that citizens’ input is taken into consideration when shaping policies and initiatives.

GENERAL CONCLUDING REMARKS

Summarising the events organised in the communities involved in the project. Common points among the communities mentioned in the provided information include:

1. Natural resources: Several communities benefit from the presence of natural resources such as parks, rivers, lagoons, and national parks. These resources offer opportunities for improvement of community wellbeing as well as strengthen local resilience.
2. Infrastructure: communities have focused on infrastructure development, including bicycle paths and transport systems. Their quality presents itself differently in different communities, while at the same time being identified as one of the most important points for determining the standard of living. It is also often associated with green themes, strongly involving the local community.
3. Participation: communities show different levels of citizens activities and diversified models of community engagement. Various communities highlight the presence of active young people, seniors, and community groups such as Rural Housewives’ Clubs, eco-associations, and non-governmental organisations. These groups play an essential role in community development, organising events, and supporting initiatives. Active involvement and participation of residents are emphasised as crucial factors in addressing challenges and promoting community development. Initiatives such as community meetings, participatory planning processes, and resident associations are mentioned as ways to activate resident participation.
4. Environmental awareness and sustainability: Some communities express the need for continuous efforts to enhance environmental awareness among residents and promote sustainable practices. Environmental education, clean-up campaigns, and incentives for eco-friendly behaviours are mentioned as actions taken. The importance of social cohesion and the need for community spaces are highlighted in multiple communities. Establishing communal spaces, parks, and meeting areas fosters community relationships, socialisation, and a sense of belonging.

Frames for participatory actions: The competencies of the engaged communities vary. Some of them have experience in organising joint activities on their own, relying on a strong and efficient local government or active NGOs. For others, communities are more passive in nature, relying more strongly on the activities of public institutions and top-down development policies. Communities also approach relations with external actors in different ways. Some are hermetic and focus on themselves and their resources. Some, on the other hand, also try to open up to knowledge, experiences and resources from outside. During the meetings, the role of networking, relationship building and face to face contacts was highlighted.