The conclusion of the “Let’s create an SDGs heritage – SDGCultheritage” (www.sdgheritage.eu) project is approaching fast, and will see local dissemination events held by each partner organisation, to communicate the project’s undertakings and outcomes.
Two dissemination events have already been held — in Poland on August 28, 2024, by the Foundation for Landscape Protection – FOK (Polish partner), and in Cyprus on November 30 and December 1, 2024 by the Cyprus Sustainable Tourism Initiative – CSTI (Cypriot partner).
The local dissemination event in Poland was held at the Officers’ Casino in the New Courtyard of Mazovia, which has undergone extensive revitalisation and has recently been put into use, also with the aim to present how the Casino’s restoration was carried out in accordance with the principles of sustainable development, and aligned with the New European Bauhaus values.
The renovation respected natural resources, promoted eco-friendly technologies, and incorporated energy-efficient solutions, such as connection to the district heating network and energy-saving windows and doors. Additionally, the conservation and reuse of original materials embraced the concept of a circular economy. The revitalisation also supported local biodiversity, ensuring the restored areas harmonised with the natural environment. By choosing the venue, the Foundation underscored the importance of sustainable cultural heritage preservation.
The dissemination event in Poland focused on the integration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into cultural heritage projects. It introduced participants to the project Handbook designed to align cultural heritage projects with SDGs, featuring practical examples and case studies, and concluded the event with an interactive Q&A session and a panel discussion where participants shared best practices, challenges and future directions for integrating SDGs into cultural heritage preservation.
Participants encountered cultural heritage’s critical role in promoting sustainable development and the need for strategic alignment with SDGs to ensure long-term impact. Discussions underscored the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, the sharing of best practices, and the use of practical tools like the Handbook introduced as part of the event. The panel highlighted challenges such as limited resources and the complexity of balancing preservation with modern development needs. However, there was a consensus that overcoming these challenges through innovation and cooperation is essential for the successful integration of SDGs in cultural heritage initiatives. The event closed with a commitment to continue building partnerships and applying the insights gained to future projects.
Meanwhile, the local event in Cyprus took place as part of the “RE-Merry Christmas” bazaar, held at Agios Tychonas’ Poseidonia Hotel. CSTI participated with its own booth and, through presentations and workshops, visitors discovered how culture and art, via tourism, play a crucial role in achieving the SDGs.
The remaining local dissemination events will be held in Greece, Italy and Spain by the end of December, marking the conclusion of the project’s activities.
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