Networks and cities' news

EcoCore Core Network Meeting in Pärnu: Leveraging Innovation Ecosystem to Drive Regional Development and Harness Green Transition Opportunities

The picturesque city of Pärnu recently played host to the EcoCore network's transnational meeting and city learning visit which tool place on 21^st and 22^nd May 2024.  The event brought together key stakeholders from across EcoCore partner regions to discuss sustainable development, regional cooperation, and digital innovation. The agenda was packed with insightful presentations, workshops, and site visits, providing a comprehensive overview of Pärnu’s strategies and challenges in becoming a model of regional sustainability and digital excellence. Here's a summary of the highlights and key takeaways from the two-day event.

Piraeus Hosts Third Transnational Meeting of URBACT 'Cities After Dark'

Breaking stereotypes: The triumph of a disability inclusion

In this article we would like to delve into a success story led by our DIGI-INCLUSION Network Partner, the Municipality of Torres Vedras (Portugal), who were also responsible for hosting the  Transnational Partner Meeting during last April. 

More specifically, we would like to emphasise the role of Leonel Alves, who, during the Transnational Meeting in Torres Vedras, shared with the partnership his story about having a disability and being digitally included. During the meeting he was accompanied by Fernando Martins, teacher in the Secondary School Henriques Nogueira.

SCHOOLHOOD’s first stop on its journey to safe, green and happy ways to school

Last year around summertime, SCHOOLHOODs started its journey to improve the way our children are going to school. With the Baseline Study and Network Roadmap in place, we formed a timetable with 4 service lines and 9 stops to arrive at our vision: safe, green and happy ways to school for our pupils. After a period of intensive work from January to March 2024, we took a look back at our challenges and achievements in our first Quarterly Network Report - analysis & vision.

Reviving the night: How city centres are transforming after dark

Strolling through a city centre's high street at night can be quite an unexpected experience. After dark, a variety of services and activities come to life, from waste collection to the delivery of goods to shops, utilising the quiet hours for retail preparations. Just a few blocks away, music spills out from bars, mingling with lively chatter from bustling terraces. However, several factors can impact the vibrancy of city centres at night. There is no doubt that city centres face the most significant challenges of the urban night-time economy.

From the contrast of differing functions to noise pollution to the promotion of cultural and business activities, city centres are a prime testing ground for solutions that can enhance their attractiveness at night for both residents and visitors. The implementation of a night strategy can increase the perception of safety, while promoting community spirit and sense of place among different categories of residents.   

Empowering Immigrant Women through Sustainable Mobility: A Pathway to Community Integration in Cento

Nestled in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy, the town of Cento exudes a rich cultural tapestry woven from its historical roots and the vibrant contributions of its immigrant population. From its ancient Roman origins as "Cesentum" to its Renaissance splendour, Cento is renowned for its architectural treasures, elegant churches, and bustling piazzas that reflect centuries of cultural heritage. Today, Cento maintains its allure as a welcoming community where diversity flourishes, with foreigners comprising 11.3% of its residents as of January 2023. This demographic diversity not only enriches daily life but also infuses Cento's gastronomy, festivals, and social interactions with a mosaic of traditions and languages.