CRPM team members recently participated in a three-day study visit to Potenza, Italy, as part of the CiBioGo project, an initiative dedicated to exploring innovative approaches to sustainability, biodiversity, and community-driven governance.
This visit provided a unique opportunity to discover ongoing and past projects in the Province of Potenza, offering valuable insights into sustainable biodiversity management. Among the many inspiring practices we encountered, these stood out:
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Virtual Reality for Citizen Engagement – A cutting-edge IT platform enhancing virtual participation, decision-making, and smart city solutions.
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Women & Biodiversity – Blending traditional knowledge with innovation to create a more resilient environment.
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Urban & Community Gardens – Green spaces fostering intergenerational learning and sustainable practices.
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River Contracts & Local Democracy – Strengthening territorial solidarity and reconnecting communities with nature.
These initiatives demonstrate the power of citizen-led efforts in shaping biodiversity governance at the local level.
Despite the rainy weather, our team continued exploring how local initiatives are preserving unique ecosystems. A highlight was the visit to two volcanic lakes that serve as critical habitats for rare species in urgent need of protection and conservation.
Witnessing the dedication of local communities firsthand reinforced the crucial role they play in safeguarding nature. Their commitment to conservation was truly inspiring.
On the final day, we examined best practices and collaborated on policy roadmaps tailored to each of the partners from Italy, Spain, Belgium, Slovenia, and Latvia. Discussions focused on adapting decision-making methods and tools to ensure active stakeholder participation in biodiversity governance.
From species monitoring to citizen engagement initiatives, this study visit deepened our understanding of the importance of community-driven environmental action.
With a strong commitment to resilient cities and biodiversity governance, we are shaping the future of sustainable policymaking.
This study visit was organized as part of the Citizen Participation in Biodiversity Governance (CIBioGo) project, an interregional cooperation initiative led by the Province of Potenza to enhance nature and biodiversity policies.
Read more about CRPM Biodiversity Program here.
