Scientific popularizers and specialists with specific training and previous experience on the topic of plastic pollution, circular economy and prevention will be engaged for these events dedicated to professionals, administrators and anyone directly or indirectly interested in life and activities in mountainous areas.
The goal is to raise awareness of plastic pollution in mountains, the dynamics, consequences, possible prevention and potential benefits, including economic ones.
Plastic pollution is normally associated with the sea and urban areas, very little has been investigated, however, in mountainous areas, and that little limited to microplastics: it is generally believed that these are exempt. Wrong.
Based on the experience gained in every habitat on the Planet, from the Arctic to the Mediterranean, E.R.I. has developed a systemic action also for the Alps, already hard hit by climate change, and in this action a fundamental role is that reserved for knowledge, at d all levels and from every point of view: the causes, the dynamics, the consequences, our daily direct and indirect connection with the environment and the Alpine environment in particular, the economic implications and prevention are the objects of education and training interventions.
Environmental Education:
CleanA⅃ꟼ places the education and awareness of people, especially young people and professionals, on the topic of protecting the alpine environment at the center of its activities. Through educational programs in schools and workshops for professionals, CleanA⅃ꟼ strives to spread knowledge about sustainability, biodiversity, and plastic pollution prevention, helping to train the next generation of mountain guardians.
Training for Professionals:
In addition to education in schools, CleanA⅃ꟼ offers specific training to mountain professionals, such as environmental hiking or mountain guides, tour operators and hut managers, Parks staff, local administrators, etc... The goal is to provide practical tools to reduce human impact on the Alps, encourage ecologically responsible behavior, and promote sustainable tourism. These meetings or courses help integrate sustainability into daily activities, protecting the environment and maintaining a thriving mountain economy.
Community Involvement:
CleanA⅃ꟼ training activities are not limited to individuals, but involve entire local communities. Working closely with residents and stakeholders, CleanA⅃ꟼ promotes practices that support land conservation and foster the resilience of alpine communities. This collaboration aims to grow a culture of respect for the environment and find shared solutions to protect the mountains.
Environmental Ignorance:
Despite the importance of protecting the Alps, many people are unaware of the pollution and climate change problems affecting this fragile ecosystem. CleanA⅃ꟼ is committed to filling this gap by informing and raising awareness of the vital role the Alps play in Europe's ecological, cultural, and economic well-being.
Resistance to Change:
Everyone can be initially resistant to changing their habits-it is a natural attitude to some extent. CleanA⅃ꟼ addresses this challenge through encounter, discussion, and with programs aimed at showing the concrete benefits of more sustainable practices, both for the environment and the local economy, by incentivizing change without compromising traditions.
Impacts of Climate Change:
Climate change poses an ongoing threat to the Alps, affecting the mountain ecosystem and its natural resources. CleanA⅃ꟼ integrates specific notions of climate change into the training, showing how individuals and communities can help reduce their environmental impacts and adapt to new conditions.
Collaboration:
The success of CleanA⅃ꟼ education and awareness-raising activities depends on collaboration between schools, local authorities, tourism institutions and mountain professionals. Only through working together can the natural heritage of the Alps be effectively protected and a sustainable future for the region be secured.
Awareness and Action:
Promoting environmental awareness is the first step, but it is concrete action that leads to lasting change. CleanA⅃ꟼ inspires its participants to put what they learn into practice, from cleanup hikes to efforts to reduce plastic use in their daily lives. Only through collective efforts can we safeguard the alpine environment for future generations.
CleanA⅃ꟼ invites everyone to join in this educational mission, working together to protect the beauty and biodiversity of the Alps. Protecting nature is not only a duty, but an investment in the future of our planet.