It provides actors targeting innovative solutions in the Alpine regions with a platform for contact and discussion with CIPRA Italy, its member organisations and the research community. The workshop was developed from ideas put forward by the new Board, whose members were elected together with Federica Corrado as the new President at the beginning of 2014.

The first workshop, in September, lasted two days and was held in Oulx in the Susa Valley, a valley with many contradictions but also great potential. The programme included information on current demographic trends and projects for the restoration of intact landscapes and the rehabilitation of rural buildings as well as discussions on new forms of rural life, farming and tourism, and new services for the community.

These current changes are an expression of a sense of new departures in the Alps, leading to new forms of spatial planning. It is important for CIPRA Italy to fully understand them so that the organisation can draw up new strategies, not only to contribute to the preservation of the natural and cultural heritage but also to preserve the Alps as the home of the Alpine population. That involves intensifying contacts with other associations, institutions and the business and research communities. The presence of over a hundred people at the first development workshop and their active involvement show that the format is attractive, and further events – in other Alpine valleys perhaps – are envisaged.

www.cipra.org/italia (it)

Source: Annual Report 2014, CIPRA International, http://www.cipra.org/annual-reports