Actions speak louder than words
Arbor Hubs
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The Arbor Hubs are participatory landscape revitalization projects offering multi-sectoral activities geared towards reducing stress, enhancing practical skills, and promoting social and environmental added value. By combining these elements, Arbor Hubs contribute to building resilient communities that prioritize well-being, sustainability, and the promotion of social and environmental added value.
By leveraging under-used rural or peri-rural areas, combining traditional practices with innovative solutions, creating conditions for an ecological and social transition, and promoting new forms of economies, the creation of Arbor Hubs serve as a transformative force, revitalizing communities, and promoting sustainable development.
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a) Current context of climate and pandemic crises:
The world is currently facing interconnected crises in the form of climate change and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. These crises have highlighted the importance of addressing environmental sustainability, mental health, and social well-being. Arbor Hubs provide a solution that tackles multiple issues simultaneously. By creating participatory landscape revitalization projects, Arbor Hubs contribute to environmental sustainability by promoting green spaces, biodiversity, and ecological restoration. Additionally, these hubs offer multi-sectoral activities that can help individuals cope with the mental and physical challenges
b) Impact of the attention economy on personal well-being:
In today's digital age, people are constantly bombarded with information and distractions. This constant exposure to screens and technology can negatively impact personal well-being, including mental health, cognitive abilities, and social interactions. Arbor Hubs provide a physical space for people to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. Engaging in practical skills and activities in these hubs allows individuals to focus their attention on meaningful and tangible experiences, promoting mindfulness, stress reduction, and improved mental well-being.
c) Need for new inclusive spatial interpretations in harmony with nature:
Traditional urban planning and spatial interpretations often prioritize economic development and neglect the importance of nature and inclusive design. This approach leads to the degradation of natural environments, social inequality, and disconnection from nature. Arbor Hubs offer a new spatial interpretation that integrates nature and inclusive design principles. By revitalizing landscapes and creating participatory projects, Arbor Hubs provide accessible and inclusive spaces for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. These hubs can serve as community gathering places, promoting social cohesion, cultural exchange, and a sense of belonging while harmonizing with nature.
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To create Arbor Hubs, we will leverage under-used rural areas, combine traditional practices with innovative solutions, facilitate an ecological and social transition, and promote new forms of economies. We will identify suitable locations and repurpose under-utilized land. Integrating traditional knowledge and innovative approaches will balance cultural preservation and environmental sustainability. Educational programs, community engagement, and partnerships will drive the transition. Arbor Hubs will support local businesses, explore eco-tourism, and foster entrepreneurship. Monitoring and evaluation will ensure effectiveness and continuous improvement.
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The projects are currently being tested and are expected to the running by the summer of 2025.
Arbor Hub Finalborgo
Liguria, Italy
A safe place to re-connect through nature, sport, and agriculture.
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The projects are currently being developed and are expected to the running by the end of 2024.
Arbor Hub Brè
Ticino, Switzerland
A place where renewed traditions are created from collaborative processes based on inclusive cultural and agricultural experiences.
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The projects are being defined and will be entering the development phase in the coming years.
Arbor Hub the Pantry
Amman, Jordan
A social enterprise focusing on creating well-being while promoting sustainable food practices and generating economic empowerment.
Arbor Hub Chillan
Itata Valley, Chile
A land between the Pacific and the Andes where time is aligned with the rhythm of nature.
More information coming soon
Advocacy
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Through different kind of means (documentaries, music, festivals, conferences etc.) we want to promote a shift in current narratives and advocate for a systemic change that prioritizes human and planetary well-being, moving away from perceiving them as externalities.
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1. Challenges like climate change and pandemics are interconnected, requiring a holistic approach that acknowledges the interdependence between humans and the planet.
2. Prioritizing well-being leads to long-term planning, sustainable practices, and respect for ecological limits, promoting a future that balances social, economic, and environmental aspects.
3. Recognizing the interdependence allows us to build resilience, anticipate disruptions, and adapt to ongoing and future challenges effectively.
4. The current narrative perpetuates inequalities, but a systemic approach ensures fairness, inclusive decision-making, and equitable sharing of benefits and costs.
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Collective action and collaboration across disciplines and sectors is essential for addressing complex challenges, and a narrative emphasizing interconnectedness fosters collaboration, innovation, and resource sharing.
Schweiz 2291
Short films
Blue Arbor will serve as a jury for the short films themed "Morgen - Tomorrow - Domani" during the Locarno Film Festival.