In this article, we explain the importance of Urban Resilience Europe and provide details about our upcoming webinar series. We will outline each session, introduce the distinguished speakers, and explain why these discussions matter for cities across Europe.

The importance of urban resilience in Europe

Today, cities face unprecedented challenges from climate change. Rising temperatures, unpredictable weather, and environmental degradation threaten urban infrastructure and local economies. At Farclimate, we firmly believe that urban resilience in Europe means taking proactive steps to protect our communities.

For example, urban areas serve as economic, cultural, and social hubs that drive regional growth. Therefore, enhancing resilience not only mitigates the impacts of climate change but also boosts local prosperity. By integrating policy, finance, and NBS, cities can overcome these challenges. Our webinar series reflects this vision by offering practical examples and proven strategies that support urban resilience in Europe across the continent.

Webinar Series: Catalyzing urban transformation

Our webinar series focuses on three core themes, each addressing a critical aspect of urban resilience in Europe. These sessions will provide urban stakeholders with actionable insights and strategies to achieve lasting change.

Finance & Policy: driving sustainable urban change

The first session, «Finance & Policy,» takes place on March 27, from 18:00 to 19:00 CET. In this session, experts will discuss how robust financial strategies and clear policy frameworks can drive urban sustainability. Attendees will learn to secure funding for climate resilience projects and design policies that support transformative urban initiatives. By focusing on these areas, cities can build urban resilience in Europe and stimulate local economic growth.

Speakers in this session include industry leaders who have successfully navigated complex funding landscapes. Their insights will help urban leaders understand how innovative financing models and supportive policies can accelerate urban transformation.

Nature-based solutions: tools for climate resilience

The second session, titled «Nature-based solutions,» will be held on April 9, from 18:00 to 19:00 CET. This webinar highlights the critical role that nature-based solutions play in enhancing Urban Resilience Europe. Experts will demonstrate how integrating green infrastructure and ecological practices into urban planning can reduce vulnerabilities and increase adaptive capacity.

We are excited to feature Andrés Alcántara from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as a key speaker. His presentation, alongside insights from other thought leaders, will showcase successful case studies that illustrate how NBS contribute to creating climate-resilient urban environments.

Business development & Multi-stakeholder approach: scaling impact

The final session, «Business development & Multi-stakeholder approach,» is scheduled for April 23, from 18:00 to 19:00 CET. In today’s interconnected world, achieving urban resilience in Europe requires collaboration among policymakers, financial experts, businesses, and community organizations.

In this webinar series, a panel of experts will discuss effective strategies to foster cross-sector collaboration. Distinguished speakers include:

• Diana Kupper from the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI)
• Fenn Faber from Klima Agence
• Giacomo Falchetta from Centro Mediterrano sui Cambienti Climatici (CMCC)
• Leen Zevenbergen from B Corp
• Thomas Osdoba from EIT Climate KIC
• Andrés Alcántara from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)

They will share their experiences and practical tips for creating synergistic partnerships that drive sustainable urban transformation.

Why this Webinar Series matters

Each session in our webinar series offers unique insights to help cities overcome climate challenges. By participating, urban stakeholders will:

• Gain actionable strategies for integrating policy, finance, and NBS into urban planning.
• Discover innovative funding mechanisms and supportive policy frameworks that promote urban transformation.
• Learn from real-world case studies and expert experiences that demonstrate how to build urban resilience in Europe.
• Network with professionals who share a commitment to sustainability and urban innovation.

Moreover, these interactive sessions allow participants to ask questions, exchange ideas, and build partnerships that support collective climate action. We encourage urban leaders, policymakers, and sustainability professionals to seize this opportunity and contribute to a resilient future.

Join the movement!

At Farclimate, we remain dedicated to advancing urban resilience in Europe by fostering collaborative, innovative solutions. Our partnership with Green Growth Generation exemplifies our commitment to this cause. We invite you to join our webinar series, learn from top experts, and play a crucial role in transforming urban areas into sustainable, climate-resilient hubs.

Register now for free and be part of the change. Together, we can build a resilient future for European cities.

]]> https://farclimate-project.eu/regional-climate-adaptation-workshop/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=regional-climate-adaptation-workshop Thu, 13 Mar 2025 12:28:45 +0000 https://farclimate-project.eu/?p=536 On February 20, 2025, the Municipality of Fundão hosted a highly engaging climate adaptation workshop titled “Beiras e Serra da Estrela Regional Workshop: Pathways to Climate Resilience.” This event was dedicated to discussing innovative strategies for adapting Mediterranean regions to the impacts of climate change. Funded under the European Horizon Europe programme and held in collaboration with the DesirMED and FarClimate projects, the workshop successfully brought together regional, national, and international stakeholders. In this article, we explore the key takeaways, topics discussed, and the collaborative efforts that made this climate adaptation workshop a pivotal event in the region.

Overview of the Climate Adaptation Workshop

The climate adaptation workshop organized by Fundão Municipality served as a vital platform for knowledge-sharing and strategy development. In this session, experts, public and private sector representatives, academics, and civil society members convened to examine the challenges posed by climate change in the Mediterranean context. Notably, the event emphasized the integration of social and ecological factors, thereby addressing the complexity of regional climate risks.

During the workshop, participants engaged in in-depth discussions on how Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) could be implemented to mitigate climate change impacts. Moreover, through interactive visioning exercises looking toward 2030 and 2050, the workshop paved the way for establishing strategic pathways for enhanced regional resilience. These initiatives not only underscored the importance of sustainable practices but also highlighted the role of collective action in driving regional transformation.

Key Themes and Collaborative Strategies

Throughout the day, the event delved into various key themes that are critical for the success of climate adaptation initiatives. Firstly, the workshop provided a detailed analysis of the region’s climate risks, which helped to underscore the urgency of addressing environmental challenges in Mediterranean territories. Secondly, participants discussed the interdependence of social and ecological systems, exploring how these relationships can be leveraged to develop robust adaptation strategies.

Furthermore, the workshop featured collaborative sessions where stakeholders shared best practices and proposed innovative solutions. In one of these sessions, specific attention was given to the implementation of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) as a sustainable way to combat the adverse effects of climate change. By highlighting success stories and real-world examples, the discussions fostered a spirit of innovation and practical problem-solving. Additionally, experts emphasized that integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific strategies is essential for achieving long-term climate resilience.

Moreover, the workshop examined how planned actions in key areas—namely Fruit Farming, Forestry, and Livestock Farming—can contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future. By structuring the proposed measures around these pillars, the event reinforced the need for tailored strategies that cater to the unique characteristics of each sector, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of climate adaptation initiatives.

Future Pathways and Regional Impact

Looking ahead, the outcomes of the climate adaptation workshop are expected to have a lasting impact on the region. The event successfully defined strategic pathways and concrete actions aimed at bolstering climate resilience across Mediterranean areas. For instance, the Municipality of Fundão presented several planned actions that include the deployment of innovative scientific instruments and the application of NbS strategies. These initiatives are designed to be replicated in other territories within the Intermunicipal Community of Beiras and Serra da Estrela (CIMBSE), ultimately promoting broader regional sustainability.

In addition, the workshop underscored the importance of continuous collaboration among various stakeholders. Both the DesirMED and FarClimate projects, which are key partners in this initiative, contribute significantly to developing adaptive strategies that address the multifaceted challenges of climate change. DesirMED focuses on implementing scientific strategies for climate adaptation through Nature-Based Solutions, while FarClimate is committed to promoting a fair and sustainable climate transition, especially in rural areas. These collaborative efforts are crucial in ensuring that local communities play an active role in defining and executing adaptation strategies.

Furthermore, the positive outcomes of the workshop have reinforced the commitment of Fundão Municipality and its partners to invest in regional climate resilience. By leveraging innovative approaches and fostering cross-sector collaboration, the event has set the stage for a transformative journey toward a more resilient and sustainable future. The success of the workshop demonstrates that when diverse stakeholders come together, effective solutions for climate adaptation can be achieved, benefiting both the environment and society.

Conclusion

In summary, the Regional Climate Adaptation Workshop organized by Fundão Municipality was an essential event that brought together various stakeholders to discuss and develop strategies for climate resilience. Through detailed analyses, collaborative discussions, and forward-thinking visioning exercises, the workshop provided a clear roadmap for enhancing regional adaptation strategies in Mediterranean areas. With continuous efforts from projects like DesirMED and FarClimate, and the active participation of local communities, the path toward a sustainable future is becoming more achievable.

For more detailed insights on these initiatives, please visit the official project websites:

• DesirMED: www.desirmed.eu
• FarClimate: www.farclimate-project.eu

Challenges facing EU fisheries

Small-scale fishers in regions like southern Italy and Galicia, Spain, experience the adverse effects of climate change firsthand. Pollution and rising sea temperatures have led to declining catches, threatening the livelihoods of communities dependent on fishing. Additionally, accessing support from funds such as the €12 billion European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) has proven challenging for these small operators, as complex application processes often favor larger entities.

FARCLIMATE’s approach to building resilience

To address these challenges, FARCLIMATE engages stakeholders in each region to establish effective governance and management mechanisms. By creating Living Labs, we facilitate the co-creation, testing, and scaling of innovative activities in real-life settings. Our in-depth research on value chains, socioeconomic and environmental factors, and existing economic sectors informs the development of tailored solutions. Through training and workshops, we empower communities to adopt sustainable practices and enhance their adaptive capacities.

Implementing transformative solutions

FARCLIMATE focuses on developing and expanding climate-resilient measures that are accessible and understandable to all stakeholders. We prioritize nature-based solutions and consider the social, political, and economic barriers unique to each region. By promoting sustainable recommendations and supporting transformative changes in farming, fisheries, and forestry, we aim to create a more resilient and sustainable future for European fisheries.

Collaborative efforts for a sustainable future

Our consortium comprises 14 partners from six European countries, including universities, research institutions, and industry stakeholders. This interdisciplinary, multisectoral, and multi-actor collaboration ensures a comprehensive approach to climate change adaptation. By working closely with local communities, policymakers, and industry leaders, we strive to implement effective strategies that enhance the resilience of the fisheries sector amidst the challenges posed by climate change.

What is Close-to-Nature Silviculture?

Close-to-Nature Silviculture is an eco-friendly forestry management approach that works in harmony with natural processes. By mimicking the dynamics of natural forests, this method promotes:

• Sustainability: Enhancing forest health while minimizing human impact.
• Innovation: Integrating traditional knowledge with modern techniques.
• Resilience: Improving the forest’s ability to adapt to climate change.

This approach not only preserves biodiversity but also supports the sustainable management of forest resources—a critical element in mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Principles and Benefits

At the core of Close-to-Nature Silviculture are several fundamental principles:

• Emulating Natural Dynamics: By encouraging spontaneous regeneration and maintaining ecological balance, this method preserves the intrinsic characteristics of forests.
• Enhancing Ecosystem Services: Improved soil and water quality, increased biodiversity, and greater resistance to climate stresses are key benefits.
• Resource Efficiency: Sustainable methods optimize resource use and minimize environmental impacts, ensuring that forest management contributes to broader climate adaptation goals.

These benefits support FARCLIMATE’s mission to deliver climate-resilient solutions, aligning with the European Commission’s emphasis on sustainable and innovative approaches.

Sustainable Methods in Practice

FARCLIMATE applies Close-to-Nature Silviculture as part of its broader strategy to transform economic sectors affected by climate change. By adapting techniques to local conditions, the project:

• Blends traditional forest management practices with modern technologies.
• Develops decision management plans and training workshops for local stakeholders.
• Implements nature-based solutions that are both environmentally friendly and economically viable.

These methods ensure that forest ecosystems are managed sustainably while contributing to the climate resilience of communities across Europe.

Long-Term Impact and Community Resilience

The long-term vision of Close-to-Nature Silviculture is to build resilient, sustainable forests that serve as a foundation for local and regional economic stability. FARCLIMATE’s integrated approach not only strengthens forest ecosystems but also empowers communities by:

• Creating living labs that serve as models for sustainable practices.
• Enhancing local capacity through re-skilling and training opportunities.
• Providing policy recommendations and guidelines for broader application of nature-based solutions.

By forging a network of climate-resilient communities, FARCLIMATE is paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.

Conclusion

Close-to-Nature Silviculture exemplifies how innovative, sustainable forestry practices can address the challenges posed by climate change. Through its interdisciplinary approach, FARCLIMATE is transforming the way we manage our natural resources, ensuring that our forests remain healthy and resilient for generations to come. Discover more about our work and join us on the journey toward a sustainable future.

Partners from  Município do Fundão and C4G Consulting implemented the pilot for Training deployment on the 10th and 11th having assessed a total number of 155 trainees from agricultural and forestry businesses, civil society, students and other stakeholders.

The 3rd Fundão Agricultural Innovation Fair, hosted by the Municipality of Fundão from October 10-13, 2024, is now recognized as one of Portugal’s key events dedicated to agricultural modernization. Positioned as a national gathering point, the fair attracted thousands of participants, including leading agricultural companies, start-ups, and research institutions, all converging to showcase and explore innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture.

Spanning several venues, including experimental farms and the Fundão Business Center, this year’s fair emphasized cutting-edge mechanization, water efficiency, and soil management. It highlighted real-world demonstrations, allowing attendees to see advanced agricultural equipment and practices in action. The fair also featured various workshops, talks, and forums on topics ranging from robotic farming to sustainable water use, addressing both practical and forward-looking needs of the agricultural sector.

Fundão’s unique climate and diverse agricultural landscape made it an ideal setting for live demonstrations, where attendees could observe innovative practices suited to a range of crops and climates. By facilitating this hands-on environment, the fair not only celebrated the role of modern technology in enhancing agricultural productivity but also underscored the value of sustainable methods tailored to the region’s ecological characteristics.

19 September: ‘Verde Urbano: coltivare inclusione e biodiversità / Urban Green: Cultivating Inclusion and Biodiversity’
The first event, ‘Verde Urbano: Coltivare Inclusione e Biodiversità’, held at St’Orto Urbano and San Pietro in Vincoli, focused around the critical importance of urban green spaces and biodiversity. Journalist and author Fabio Balocco, whose book “Verde Clandestino” inspired the gathering, called for a reimagining of urban spaces as environments where nature can flourish alongside human activity.
His words were echoed by representatives of BeeLab and L’Autostrada delle Api – realities involved in studying and protecting pollinator insects – and the local advocacy groups Salviamo gli Alberi di Corso Belgio and Salviamo la Pellerina, who stressed the importance of protecting Turin’s urban green spaces, for all residents’ health and well-being.
Artist Giacomo Castana and San Pietro’s artistic director, Andrea Panero, further highlighted the role of community in cultural and environmental regeneration.

20 September: ‘Visioni Urbane e Torino: Storie di Rigenerazione e Sostenibilità / Urban Visions and Turin: Stories of Regeneration and Sustainability’

The second event, ‘Visioni Urbane e Torino: Storie di Rigenerazione e Sostenibilità’, at Cecchi Point, showcased two short films produced by the Ruta Summer Film School, illustrating stories of urban transformation and resilience. Works such as ‘Mario’ and ‘Verdeacciaio’ explore themes of nature’s healing power and the interaction between industrial spaces and nature. Finally, ‘Ascoltando la corrente’, offered the audience an intense look at the relationship between Turin and the river Po, putting an emphasis on the need of protecting river ecosystems in the face of climate change.

Moving forward
The two evenings offered valuable and complementary insights: on the one hand, the need to protect and regenerate urban green spaces through active community participation. On the other hand, the importance of cultivating new cultural narratives about the relationship between nature and the city. Filmmaker Luciano Papangelo translated these perspectives in two short films, capturing an intimate and authentic look at life inside the St’Orto, shining a light to the people who animate it.

These events build on the July launch of the FARCLIMATE project, which focused on urban agriculture as a key to sustainable city living. Expanding this vision, Green Growth Generation plans to continue consolidating its case study work in Turin, fostering collaboration with local groups to create a model for sustainable urban regeneration that can inspire other cities.

Discover more at https://greengrowthgeneration.com/.

24th of September

In this context, FARCLIMATE organised a Training day focusing on introducing Living Labs and stakeholder engagement on September 24th. The training was provided for European regions and communities applying the Living Lab methodology in the agriculture, fisheries, and forestry sectors, like FARCLIMATE itself. Seven of the case studies that are being launched this year within FARCLIMATE attended the training:

1. Municipality of Fundão
2. Green Growth Generation
3. CESEFOR,Junta de Castilla y León
4. Development Policy Foundation
5. Fundación Savia
6. GALP Ría de Arousa
7. GALP Ría de Pontevedra

🔸 The session was introduced by Pablo Cabanelas from Universidad de Vigo. During the morning Leidy Vanessa Enriquez Florez, Spela Zalokar (ENoLL), Teemu Santonen (Laurea University of Applied Sciences), Maria Konstantinidou and Josep Maria Salanova Grau (CERTH) focused the session on living labs, covering the fundamental principles, providing a clear narrative around the “what, who, why, when, and where” of Living Labs. They explained what Living Lab is, why it should be used, and when and where they can be effectively applied, sharing real-life examples to illustrate their impact. During the hands-on exercise,  working tables were organised to focus on defining key elements such as the purpose, host organization, mission, vision, and scope of a Living Lab. Participants also explored the roles of people within the lab, its internal structure, and the broader context, including relevant stakeholders and the Living Lab environment.

🔸After that, Juan Freire and Beatriz Rivela Carballal from inViable focused on stakeholder engagement. After an initial introduction aimed at fostering an understanding of what stakeholder management means in the context of FARCLIMATE, the session covered basic concepts such as the need for participation, the role of experience experts, understanding Living Labs within the innovation landscape, and the flexibility they offer. Following this, the group explored the journey and tools of FARCLIMATE, with collective work centered on the setup phase of the Living Labs. A practical exercise, «Landing in the Journey,» encouraged representatives from the case studies to reflect on their current position within the journey. The session concluded with a second exercise, where participants sketched an initial plan and outlined the next steps in their setup process.

🔸Finally, Jose Carlos Porto Rodríguez (Cesefor) explained the methodology for identifying climate change-related problems and exploring potential solutions. In both instances, he emphasized the importance of involving all stakeholders — not only to gather diverse perspectives, but also to ensure their active participation in this collaborative process. Also, Helena Clavero from IUCN, presented the Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions (NbS), developed by the organisation, as well as the online Self-Assessment Tool and what is needed to apply it by the case studies of the project. During the intervention, the concept of NbS and the framework used by IUCN were developed and the criteria that are part of the Standard and what information is needed to be able to apply it by the case studies were introduced, as a support tool for the best design and implementation of the actions within the project.

26th of September

Another key highlight from the Open Living Lab Days 2024  was the presentation of FARCLIMATE by Pablo Cabanelas from Universidade de Vigo, coordinators of the project. During this session, presenters discussed the systemic approach within the EU Missions and the challenge of the assessment of the impact. The systemic approach is critical to create a coordinated efforts that go beyond traditional policy and research boundaries. Specifically, Pablo Cabanelas focused on the Mission Adaptation introducing FARCLIMATE as an initiative that is working on this approach

Organised by Sabrina Bresciani and Francesca Rizzo (Politecnico di Milano), this round table also touched on the Missions “Soil”, “Oceans” and “Cities” with the participation of Giulia Campodonico, Fedra Francocci, Laura Ribotta and Morgan Ricard.

The afternoon of the 26th, the inViable team carried out the Workshop «WILD Labs – Mapping the Innovation Frontier – A Taxonomy for Navigating Spaces and Processes» to explore interoperability, draw insights and search for synergies from various participatory innovation frameworks and infrastructures (the «labs»), reflecting on processes and tools that can be integrated into what we’ve coined as WILD Labs. Through the study and analysis of various formats, spaces, processes, and tools within different innovation frameworks, they presented a taxonomy proposal for discussion. This allowed participants to explore the symbiosis and integration of learnings, ultimately paving the way for the development of a catalogue of processes and tools that could potentially be integrated into a forward-looking vision of future applications, transcending the standardisation of Living Labs: the WILD Labs. This initiative is is related to the work done at FARCLIMTE where the Living Lab framework is applied to search, experiment and scale climate adaptation solutions in several European territories and communities where agriculture, forestry or fisheries are key economic activities.

During these meetings, FARCLIMATE was presented to representatives from various entities and stakeholders in the fishing, shellfishing, and aquaculture sectors, as well as related industries. They engaged in dynamic discussions to identify additional local and regional actors who can collaborate with us to develop effective solutions to the challenges posed by climate change adaptation.

About GALP Ría de Arousa: GALP Ría de Arousa is a Local Action Group for Fisheries in Galicia, Spain, focusing on sustainable development in the Ría de Arousa region, one of the largest estuaries in Galicia known for its rich marine resources. Supported by the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF), GALP Ría de Arousa aims to enhance economic diversification, environmental sustainability, and social cohesion in coastal communities dependent on fishing and aquaculture. The group’s initiatives include improving fishing infrastructure, supporting marine conservation, and boosting local tourism related to maritime heritage.

Collaborating with municipalities, fishing associations, and research institutions, GALP Ría de Arousa ensures that its projects address local needs and garner community support. The group’s efforts are vital in preserving the region’s maritime traditions while adapting to modern economic and environmental challenges. Through its various projects, GALP Ría de Arousa plays a crucial role in both preserving the cultural heritage of the region and fostering sustainable economic development.

About GALP Ría de Pontevedra: GALP Ría de Pontevedra is a Local Action Group for Fisheries in Galicia, Spain, dedicated to fostering sustainable development in the Ría de Pontevedra region. This estuary, known for its productive marine environment, supports significant fishing and aquaculture activities. Funded by the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF), GALP Ría de Pontevedra focuses on enhancing local economic opportunities, promoting environmental stewardship, and strengthening community engagement within the coastal area.

The group’s initiatives involve upgrading fishing infrastructure, advancing marine conservation efforts, and developing tourism related to maritime heritage. By partnering with local governments, fishing organizations, and research bodies, GALP Ría de Pontevedra ensures that its projects are relevant to community needs and have a positive impact. Through these activities, the group not only supports the region’s traditional maritime industries but also contributes to sustainable growth and preservation of its cultural heritage.

For more information and updates on the project’s progress, follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter!

Community Gardens at the center

Urban gardens, as a form of small-scale agriculture, enable citizens to grow fresh, zero-mile produce, reducing the environmental impact of transportation of goods and contributing to a decrease in CO2 emissions. These green spaces offer a concrete response to the challenges of urbanization and climate change, improving air quality and fostering urban biodiversity. But not only: urban gardens can also become authentic centers of social and cultural gathering, enriched by events, exhibitions and talks that enliven neighborhood life. Places that enable people to share knowledge, experiences and strengthen community ties. This is the goal of Green Growth Generation, and one that in the coming months will involve four community gardens in the Aurora and Barriera di Milano neighborhoods in Turin: Orto Boschetto, Orto Lidl, Fattoria del Bunker and St’Orto Urbano.

Meeting with the Communities

“Progetto FARClimate: l’Orto che vorrei” represents a first step toward this goal. Attendance by representatives of other local associations ReTe ONG (Orto Boschetto and Orto Lidl), Fiësca Verd (Bunker Farm) and Fuori di Palazzo (St’Orto Urbano) was crucial in understanding the needs and requirements of each place.

Many ideas and proposals emerged during the meeting to improve and enhance these green spaces. Discussions touched on issues such as inclusivity, active participation of residents, organizing educational workshops for schools and families, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The aim is to bring people of different ages, cultures, and backgrounds together.

These gardens are not just growing spaces, but true open-air laboratories where new forms of sociality are experimented and more cohesive and resilient communities are built. Through the sharing of experiences and knowledge, urban gardens become places of collective learning and growth, where each individual can contribute to the common welfare.

The enthusiasm and energy generated during the meeting testify to the potential of this project in the social fabric of the neighborhoods involved. Green Growth Generation will continue to work with associations and residents to turn this vision into reality, starting already in September, with important new initiatives to be unveiled in the coming weeks.

You can follow Green Growth Generation in their social media accounts: LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

For more information and updates on the project’s progress, follow us on LinkedIn and X.

During two very intense and productive days, partners did not only discuss about the progress of the project and next activities to be done, but had the opportunity to make some really interesting visits to:

🔷 Fundão’s innovation ecosystem
🔋 Fundão’s biomass power plant
🌿 Carvalhal Biodiversity Station
✨ Fundão AgroTech Centre and Seminary Experimental Farm

On Day 1, the visit to Fundão’s Innovation Ecosystem was truly enlightening! 🚀🌱

To start, TNE made a brief presentation about technologies, projects and services provided worldwide, incuding the next one, a Biofuel powerplant in Silvares, a village in Fundão.

Partners explored the Business and Shared Services Centre, Business Spot, A Praça Business Incubator, and FabLab Aldeias do Xisto. These hubs have been pivotal in attracting ICT companies, creating jobs, and supporting startups in this rural town of less than 15,000 inhabitants.

🔸The Business and Shared Services Centre, conceived as the engine of the local innovation and investment strategy, has attracted 14 ICT companies and created over 1,000 highly qualified jobs. In just 4 years, it has boosted an integrated ecosystem generating 68 startups and supporting numerous private investment projects focused on R&D, professional conversion initiatives, and digital skills.

🔸Business spot aims to centralize in a single space all the information of interest for entrepreneurs in the exercise of their economic activity, from their legal obligations to business opportunities. The concept is very similar to the Lojas do Cidadão (Citizens’ Shops), but in this case the space is exclusively for companies. It is, therefore, a new model of business service, focused on the interests and needs of the entrepreneur, concentrating the answers to the business world in a single point of contact. The aim is to make it easier for entrepreneurs to access information and to promote interaction with central and local public administration.

🔸Polynucleated Urban Enterprise and Business Incubator A Praça is an incubator and accelerator of companies and businesses that integrates the national network of incubators and is certified for the various national programmes to support entrepreneurship. It has supported more than 80 startups and projects and has created about 150 new jobs.

🔸FabLab Aldeias do Xisto is a prototyping and digital fabrication laboratory in Fundão that is part of the Fab Labs’ worldwide network. The experience, technology and space provided represent the opportunity for students, citizens, researchers, innovators and entrepreneurs to become familiar with digital fabrication, create synergies and contribute to the development of new solutions adapted to the territory and companies.

During this first day partners also toured the 15 MWe biomass plant of 15 MWe, located in the industrial zone of Fundão, that incinerates waste wood (pine and eucalyptus chips) in a biomass boiler to produce superheated steam. This steam drives a steam turbine to generate electricity that is sold to the grid.

Partners ended they day visiting the Carvalhal Biodiversity Station, located in Souto da Casa, a parish in the municipality of Fundão, Portugal. This area is notable for its rich natural environment and historical significance. The Carvalhal Biodiversity Station focuses on preserving the local biodiversity, particularly within the natural landscape of the Serra da Gardunha region.

On Day 2, partners had the chance to visit the Fundão AgroTech Centre and the Seminary Experimental Farm:

🔸 Fundão AgroTech Centre aims to affirm the territory as a living laboratory for the development, testing and demonstration of technology for agriculture, integrating with other relevant infrastructures in terms of prototyping and development, advanced training and acceleration of new ideas and businesses. It aims to promote networking, namely with a wide range of regional producers available to host new solutions for agriculture. The IoT Agrotech centre is an infrastructure to support and promote innovation and entrepreneurship that aims to leverage the integration of IoT solutions in the economy, especially in rural-based activities.

🔸The Seminary Experimental Farm is one of the Fundão AgroTech Centre facilities, where several projects and experimentations are running. The farm, with 20 hectares, besides being a test filed available to start ups aiming to test and experiment its own IoT technologies, it is a place where the Município do Fundão runs several projects and experimentations, in cooperation with different entities, namely the valorisation of autochthonous breeds and three distinct test fields for cherries, olive and grapes. Furthermore, the facilities are also used to host several training programmes in the agro-forestry/agro-industrial sector, namely for Third Country Nationals.

Thank you Fundao for you incredible hospitality and for organising such insightful and intersting visits.