2023 Award "Best Practice in Citizen Participation"

17th Edition

Phase 6 of 7

Publication Preparation 18/09/2023 - 06/11/2023

Process phases

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Guimarães: “Poliniza-te” project

Official proposal

30/05/2023 15:52

The “Poliniza-te” project emerged from the need to raise awareness about the importance of pollinators for the ecosystem and the services they provide to humans. Its main objectives were to promote education and awareness about pollinators and their conservation, mobilize the community to take action towards their protection, and influence public policies towards more pollinator-friendly practices. These goals are in consonance with EU guidelines and initiatives, such as the EU Pollinators Initiative, the EU biodiversity strategy for 2030, the European Green Deal and other initiatives developed worldwide to promote measures to halt the global decline of pollinating insects.

The “Poliniza-te” project relied on a multifaceted methodology, which combined several approaches to achieve its objectives. Environmental education in schools was one of the main pillars of the project, aiming to empower young people with knowledge about the importance of pollinators and their role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. This approach allowed for the development of long-lasting habits and attitudes towards nature conservation, which can positively impact the community in the long term.

Another key initiative was the pollinators festival, which served as an important tool to raise awareness and disseminate knowledge to a wider audience. The festival allowed the community to engage in fun and educational activities, which encouraged a sense of ownership and responsibility towards local biodiversity.

The communication campaign on the preservation of green spaces for pollinators was another significant aspect of the project's methodology. This initiative aimed to influence public policies and decision-making processes by highlighting the importance of preserving natural areas and promoting more sustainable management of green spaces. By engaging with the wider community, the campaign sought to create a more favourable environment for pollinators, while also providing opportunities for citizens to participate in decision-making processes.

Finally, scientific research played a crucial role in the project, resulting in the publication of a book about local pollinator insects. This research allowed for a better understanding of local pollinators and their interactions with the environment, providing valuable insights into their conservation needs.

Several evaluation methods were employed to assess the effectiveness and impact of the project. The environmental education component was evaluated through quantitative and qualitative methods to measure both cognitive and emotional aspects of students’ perception of insect pollinators. Social media platforms were used to engage with the public, monitor feedback, and evaluate the project's reach and impact. Citizen engagement activities, such as workshops and public events, allowed the community to share their feedback and ideas, analyse the project's impact and identify areas for improvement.

In conclusion, the “Poliniza-te” project was a successful initiative that achieved its objectives of promoting pollinator conservation through education, research, and community engagement. Its multidisciplinary approach, inclusive nature, and focus on evaluation were key factors in its success. The project's legacy will be felt for years to come, as the habits and attitudes developed through its initiatives will promote a lifelong respect for nature and the conservation of pollinators.