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Description
According to the Gniezno commune data, in recent years the number of its inhabitants has considerably increased. New residents include mostly young families with children, living next to one another and rarely establishing deeper relations with natives. The distance between these groups is plain to see. At the same time, older inhabitants more and more often experience limitations to participation in social life of the commune – they do not get access to all information, while the pandemic is not the best moment for the organisation of events. Consultations and research show that ecology and waste reduction are one of the key topics important for younger population of the commune.In order to combine these needs we will organise a host of activities aiming at better inhabitant integration, e.g., meetings during which we will start new gardens or adjust old ones to climate change, workshops devoted to environmental issues and the ‘Atmospheric Garden’ competition. We will also run activities promoting the ‘zero waste’ lifestyle. To wrap the project up we will hold a Flea Market organised together with participants.
Summary of project results
Data from the municipality of Gniezno show that the number of residents in the municipality has increased significantly in recent years. The new residents are mainly young families with children who live close to each other and rarely enter into deeper relationships with existing residents. There is a perceptible distance between these groups. At the same time, older residents of the municipality increasingly feel restricted in their participation in the social life of the municipality - some information does not reach them and the pandemic has not been conducive to organising events.
During the consultations and surveys carried out, it became clear that one topic of particular relevance to the younger residents of the borough was ecology and waste reduction. In the face of climate change, it is essential to promote sustainable practices such as using rainwater, protecting biodiversity and establishing environmentally friendly gardens.
As part of the project, we carried out a range of activities aimed at integrating residents, environmental education and social activation. In total, we held 13 workshops attended by 75 people. These were aimed at both seniors and young people, covering a variety of topics such as setting up gardens, using wicker, zero waste and rainwater retention.
We also organised a ''Garden with Climate'' competition, which resulted in the creation of 18 gardens using rainwater and friendly to pollinating insects. Three ''Gardens of the Five Senses'' were also created, equipped with plants, boxes and butterfly houses.
In addition, we held a public debate on the quality of life in the municipality, which allowed for an exchange of views between younger and older residents.
We also organised one study visit, during which participants were able to gain knowledge and inspiration on sustainability, environmental protection and ecological activities that can be implemented in the local community.
A key element of the project was a public consultation on what actions the municipality should take to reduce the negative effects of climate change. More than 300 people participated in the consultation and the results were used to develop recommendations for the municipal authorities.
We also organised two unique social events: the Flea Market and the Neighbours'' Festival. Their aim was to strengthen ties among neighbours, integrate the residents of the Gniezno municipality and promote the idea of sustainable development and local cooperation.
The project resulted in the creation of 3 demonstration pots that represented different types of plant communities, and the installation of 8 rainwater tanks.
We also produced a calendar with zero waste tips, interactive tips for a chemical-free home, as well as recommendations from the debate and public consultation, which were submitted to the municipal authorities.
As we indicated, the project''s target groups were both long-standing and new residents of the Gniezno municipality, including accountants, nurses, farmers, teachers, mothers raising children, traders and pensioners. The diversity of participants contributed to breaking down social barriers and integrating people with different backgrounds.
Participants who had not previously taken an active part in the community life of the municipality were able to express their opinions during the debate and consultation, which strengthened their sense of influence on local affairs. The conclusions of the debate and consultation were communicated to the municipal authorities, which may contribute to better incorporate the needs of the residents in the planning of municipal activities
The project has had a significant impact on the community in our borough. There has been an increase in the number of ''climate gardens'', which has improved the local environment, and there have been more users of the Nice Town app, which has increased residents'' involvement in community events.
Our activities also contributed to improving the social and personal competences of the participants. Dialogue and constructive discussion skills increased by 80%, and 86% of participants increased their knowledge of zero waste, rainwater, bee keeping, permaculture and wicker in the garden. Feelings of social exclusion decreased and most participants felt a greater sense of belonging to a local group and responsibility for the commune. 75% of participants said they were ready to continue with community activities and 60% had improved their teamwork skills.