What are Living Labs, what can they achieve, and how can you make one a reality?

The EU is supporting the creation of 100 ‘Living Labs’ to create and implement solutions for soil health.

Within a Living Lab (LL) framework, different groups and test sites work together on themes of common interest concerning healthy soils. Various partners involved in the sites will be able to use the framework and associated methods to replicate actions and solutions, compare results, exchange good practices, and benefit from collaboration within a local/regional setting.

The LL framework has been gaining relevance across Europe, but it is sometimes hard to grasp how this complex framework works in practice. In our experience, talking to those who have been part of Living Labs provides a unique window to better understand them and bring the framework to life.

If you want to learn more about LLs, join us in this hour-long webinar where we will be talking to part of the team involved in developing the successful Mirafiori Sud Living Lab in the City of Turin (part of the proGIreg project).

We will talk to Laura Ribotta, Environmental Innovation Expert at Comune di Torino and members of the University of Torino team about their experience participating in the LL; the challenges and opportunities they faced, their favourite and most challenging moments and what the future looks like for these initiatives!

This webinar is part of the NBSOIL project and is linked to our NBSOIL Academy, in particular Module 2 which focuses on interactive innovation methods and, in particular, Living Labs. To learn more, head to the NBSOIL website here, and find out how to register to the Academy!

Some of the nature-based solutions implemented at the Mirafiori Living Lab. Image source: proGIreg

What is the Mirafiori Sud Living Lab?

This LL implemented 17 nature-based solutions across sites in the Mirafiori neighbourhood characterised by its industrial, working-class legacy and stunning post-industrial heritage.

The vibrant local community, NGOs, scientists, and authorities came together with their expertise to co-create, implement and test nature-based solutions, particularly through empty spaces and buildings which had been waiting to be regenerated.

The project not only addressed environmental problems, but also social, economic and urban problems by boosting collaborative and long-lasting engagement, including with vulnerable and marginalised groups. Strong and durable connections were built between partners, residents and institutions over the duration of the Living Lab process.

Even after the official end of this Living Lab, the project relationships that were built have provided continuity to the LL’s activities in the area and led to the replication of the process, providing benefits throughout the city. We hope that hearing from the project team will inspire you to take home lessons and inspiration to your own regions, spreading its benefits even broader.

Photography and Video

Please be advised that photography and/or video will be recorded at this online event and may be used by NBSOIL and partner organisations on websites, project materials and social media.

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