Discover Sustainability (Nov 2024)
Fostering regional intelligence from the ground up: a selection of case studies from EU projects
Abstract
Abstract This paper argues that sustainable development and regional intelligence can be markedly advanced through the strategic application of bottom-up initiatives, emphasizing participatory vision setting, collaborative production, and resource acquisition via crowdfunding and cooperatives. The study explores how these components are practically implemented within the context of three HORIZON2020 EU projects spanning the period from 2019 to 2024: citizen science hubs, makerspaces, and community bioenergy initiatives. By examining these projects, the paper identifies and analyzes the key elements of regional intelligence that are strengthened through bottom-up approaches. Qualitative analysis reveals that community-based initiatives grounded in citizen science principles play a pivotal role in enhancing citizen trust, transparency, and public engagement. The establishment of citizen science hubs facilitates inclusive decision-making processes and empowers local communities to actively participate in scientific endeavors, thereby fostering a deeper integration of local knowledge into regional development strategies. Moreover, makerspaces, as platforms for collaborative production, promote principles of the circular economy by encouraging resource reuse and promoting sustainable manufacturing practices. They also serve as catalysts for user-driven innovation, facilitating the creation of customized solutions tailored to local needs. Finally, community-driven bioenergy initiatives contribute to sustainable energy production, diversify energy sources, reduce fossil fuel dependency, and enhance regional resilience. Cooperatives play a crucial role in improving organizational efficiency and sustainability, enabling local stakeholders to scale initiatives, maximize impact, and promote equitable distribution of benefits, fostering social cohesion and inclusivity. The findings underscore the critical importance of bottom-up strategies in advancing sustainable development goals through increased regional intelligence. By integrating these initiatives into regional policies and practices, policymakers can leverage local knowledge and resources to address complex challenges, promote innovation, and build resilient, inclusive communities capable of navigating future challenges.
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