Dear Colleagues,

Regional and national parks, protected areas and natural reserves are playing a key role in the implementation of strategies for the conservation and protection of natural resources. They also contribute to the development of local communities by promoting sustainable practices such as responsible tourism, fair trade, organic farming, etc.

If this area interests you, don’t miss this opportunity. From 22-29 July, 2001, the National Park of Aspromonte (Southern Italy) is organising a series of cultural events to promote partnership and co-operation between Parks, NGOs and grassroots organisations from the Mediterranean Basin. This event is being organised in the framework of an educational campaign co-ordinated by the Regional Centre for Development Co-operation (CRIC/Italy) and the Third World Group (Malta) and co-financed by the EU.

Among the initiatives, you’ll be invited to participate in a two-day workshop to exchange ideas and experience on ”Economy, Ethics and the Environment». Following the workshop, participants will be invited to take part in a Tour of the Aspromonte Park’s local communities where they shall be given the opportunity to present their activities and display material and products in the framework of the Mediterranean World Music Festival ”Sentieri Suonanti Mediterranei”.

To enhance the participation of representatives from non-EU countries, travel expenses and accommodation costs for two representatives from National Parks and one NGO representative from each country will be paid for by the organisers.  Participants will be selected on the basis of the following Call for Interest (see Annex) and a questionnaire.

With kind regards.

Eric E. van Monckhoven
Consultant