FLOREAT

The partnership applied for this project after a close analysis of the stakeholders and their needs, considering previous activities and projects carried out too. Indeed, it appeared clear the need for new and specialized training and formation offerings related to biodiversity safeguard and the development of innovative Nature-based Solutions, such as the use of wildflowering: farmers and technicians did not have the required skills to develop production chains of wildflowering seeds and to implement their use. Moreover, there is a clear lack in the VET offering, especially in rural areas, where there is a stronger need. This starting point led the partnership to develop the project, addressing the needs of the identified target groups, such as: - agricultural and greenery workers and technicians (e.g., agronomists, landscapers), in need for new skills regarding the topic; - VET centers, in need for updated offerings to address market needs and to be aligned with latest European directives; - professional schools, in need for innovative teaching materials regarding biodiversity safeguard; - local bodies, in need for guidance regarding Nature-based Solutions. These groups have been involved in the project, in various phases.

The implementation of the project has allowed to achieve the development of new and updated skills among workers and technicians in the agricultural and greenery industries. Thanks to the activities carried out, it has been possible to train workers regarding the importance of biodiversity and new available solutions, such as the use of wildflowering, to protect and increase biodiversity levels. This has allowed not only the acquisition of new working skills, but also a renovated and increased awareness about environmental sustainability and about the latest European directives regarding the topic. Also, the project has deploied its action in rural areas, such as Castelluccio di Norcia (Italy), where there is a more urgent need for new trainings to update workers skills, addressing also socio-economic needs.