Diving into the essence of the meeting, Borislava Woodford from the Joint Research Centre (JRC) presented the New European Bauhaus (NEB) initiative, emphasizing its focus on the Green Deal of Europe and social perspectives. Woodford highlighted the guiding principles of NEB, advocating for a participatory and transdisciplinary approach to reconnect with nature, regain a sense of belonging, and prioritise areas and communities in need. NEB's dashboard, interactive map, and compass tool aim to revitalise neighbourhoods sustainably and inclusively, providing a guiding framework for project makers.
Robert Piaskowski, Plenipotentiary of the Mayor of Kraków for Culture, shed light on Kraków's journey in becoming a Cultural Heritage City and its significance for its residents. The city, with its rich heritage, renowned art schools, and thriving business districts, stands as a prime example of architectural ensemble and historical value. Piaskowski emphasised the importance of heritage for tourism, the city's development, and its role as a hub for cultural events and conferences.
Irena Łobocka, Manager of the Sustainable Infrastructure Cluster, shared insights from the EPIX project, focusing on collaborative efforts in smart cities' sustainable construction, energy efficiency, and renewable energy sources. The collaborative approach between different sectors and clusters aims to enhance skills and competencies, foster learning, and create synergies between diverse actors and practices.
Tamás Gyulai from the STEPP Cluster in Hungary highlighted Kraków's alignment as a city of the future and emphasised responsible innovation, social innovation, and cross-border networks driving urban development.
A panel discussion moderated by Agnieszka Wójtowicz-Wróbel from the Technical University of Kraków delved into the effectiveness of cultural and creative industries' clusters and social innovation initiatives, exploring their real impact.
The meeting's vibrant discussions and diverse perspectives highlighted the integral role of collaborative innovation, local engagement, and interdisciplinary approaches in transforming cities and regions sustainably. The exchange of ideas and experiences among experts underscored the importance of partnerships and citizen involvement in driving innovative solutions and cultural transformation.
The Smart Heritage Working Group's meeting provided an enriching platform to explore initiatives and cultivate collaborative strategies for sustainable urban development and cultural preservation across Europe. Click here to view the recording of the meeting.
