Sustainability in Practice: Our Visit to Turin and Val di Susa within the DIVERSE Project
In April 2026, the partners of the DIVERSE project, including the Regional Development Agency of Ljubljana Urban Region (RRA LUR) gathered in Torino for the 4th partner meeting. The event combined in-depth discussions with a study visit, providing valuable insights into project progress and concrete examples of good practices in sustainable bioenergy and biodiversity conservation.
The meeting followed an intensive phase of project implementation, during which we organised more than 30 focus laboratories across eight pilot areas, including the Ljubljana Marsh Nature Park. These stakeholder engagement events played a key role in co-creating solutions, exchanging knowledge, and actively involving stakeholders in developing sustainable approaches. Building on these results, we are now focusing on pilot activities across two value chains – forestry and agri-food.
Focus
During the meeting, we placed particular emphasis on the open dialogue methodology with stakeholders, pilot actions in both value chains, and their role in integrating biodiversity into bioenergy systems. We presented results, exchanged experiences, and participated in joint evaluation processes, with the contribution of RRA LUR and the Ljubljana Marsh Nature Park being recognised as examples of best practice.
Part of the programme was also dedicated to shaping future pathways for sustainable bioenergy in the Alpine region and to developing policy recommendations.
From theory to practice
As part of the study visit, we travelled to the Val di Susa valley, where we explored forestry operations and a wood chip production site. On site, we observed how sustainable forest management can directly contribute to a low-carbon energy transition.
We also learned about the work of La Foresta Società Cooperativa, which successfully combines forestry management, education, and community engagement. A particularly interesting insight was the presentation of forest restoration practices in post-fire areas.
Oulx: the forest as a classroom
A particularly inspiring part of our visit was the pilot area near the French border in Oulx, where we explored the initiative “Il bosco in classe – una lezione di sostenibilità”. This approach uses the forest as an open classroom, promoting experiential learning about sustainability, biodiversity, and responsible resource management.
Moving forward together
The meeting in Turin strengthened our collaboration, enabled knowledge exchange, and reinforced our shared vision for sustainable bioenergy development. Experiences like this confirm that cooperation and learning from practice are essential for achieving the goals of the DIVERSE project.
