REGENERATIVE CULTURE and Tourism: Earth-Centred Design, Human Values, and Local Co-Creation in Spain

09 Feb 2024

From Sustainability to Regeneration:

While "sustainability" aims to minimise negative impacts, regeneration actively rebuilds damaged systems and fosters positive change. This holistic approach considers ecological, social, cultural, and economic dimensions, recognizing their interconnectedness. It empowers local communities to participate in co-creating solutions that enhance their well-being and the resilience of their cultural environments.

 

ECD and HCD: A Synergistic Framework:

ECD emphasises designing with, not against, nature, respecting ecological boundaries and fostering biodiversity. HCD prioritises understanding and addressing human needs, values, and aspirations. Combining these approaches ensures solutions are both ecologically sound and human-centred, fostering cultural preservation and social equity.

 

Culture and Society 4.0:

Leveraging digital technologies responsibly can accelerate regenerative innovation. Culture and Society 4.0 promotes responsible technology use to empower communities, preserve cultural heritage, and foster inclusive growth.

 

Cluster and Four-Helix Ecosystems:

Building clusters of SMEs, universities, research centres, and public authorities (the four-helix model) fosters knowledge exchange, resource sharing, and collaborative innovation. This enables local Living Lab pilot projects to test and refine regenerative solutions in real-world settings.

 

Benefits of Regenerative Culture and Tourism:

  • Enhanced cultural heritage preservation: Regenerative practices can repair damage, conserve resources, and revitalise traditional knowledge, ensuring cultural heritage thrives for future generations.
  • Empowered communities: Local participation in co-creation fosters social cohesion, cultural identity, and equitable development.
  • Economic resilience: Sustainable tourism attracts responsible travellers, generating long-term economic benefits for local communities.
  • Increased biodiversity and ecosystem health: Regenerative practices protect natural resources and support biodiversity, improving air and water quality, and mitigating climate change.

 

Spain: A Gateway for Regenerative Innovation:

Spain's rich cultural heritage, diverse ecosystems, and vibrant SME landscape make it ideal for pioneering regenerative approaches in the cultural and tourism sector. Local Living Lab pilot projects, supported by cluster and four-helix partnerships, can demonstrate the power of this approach across the country.

 

Examples:

  • Regenerative tourism initiatives could offer immersive experiences that educate visitors about local ecosystems and empower them to contribute to their restoration.
  • STEAM+S education programs could equip local communities with the skills and knowledge to develop innovative solutions for cultural preservation and heritage management.
  • Digital platforms could connect cultural producers, artisans, and travellers, promoting fair trade and economic opportunities for local communities.

 

Conclusion:

By embracing Earth-Centred Design, Human-Centred Design, and Culture and Society 4.0 principles, Spain can harness the power of regenerative approaches to revitalise its cultural and tourism sector. Local Living Lab pilot projects and SME partnerships can serve as catalysts for co-creating a future where cultural heritage thrives alongside healthy ecosystems and empowered communities.


Article by By Shahram Yalda through meta-research (FINNOVA co-designed with humannation)

 

References:

  • Hawken, P., Hawken, A., & Kimbrell, A. (2020). Drawdown: The revolutionary roadmap to reversing climate change. Penguin Books.
  • Manzini, E. (2008). Design for humanity: Products and services for the well-being of individuals and society. Springer.
  • The European Commission. (2023). Culture and creativity. <invalid URL removed>: <invalid URL removed>
  • The European Cluster Collaboration Platform. (n.d.). https://clustercollaboration.eu/: https://clustercollaboration.eu/
  • Further Reading:
  • The Ellen MacArthur Foundation: https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/: https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/
  • The Regeneration Alliance: https://regeneration.org/: https://regeneration.org/