Restoring biodiversity along the Italian Green Belt: forgotten bunkers, abandoned meadows and disappearing ponds

Challenge

In the last decades, the small mountain municipality Lusevera in the Julian Prealps, has experienced profound changes in land use and economy. A strong population decline led to a loss in traditional practices and thereby biodiversity. 

Objective

Our project wants to counteract these effects by repurposing forgotten military structures to increase biodiversity, and especially restoring alpine ecosystems, while supporting environmental education and eco-tourism initiatives in this part of the Italian Green Belt. Results produced through on-site interventions and biodiversity monitoring will guide future conservation efforts. 

Approach

To enhance biodiversity in our region, we will implement exciting actions:

• Transforming old bunkers into bat hibernaculas, promoting awareness of their ecological importance.
• Restoring 5/6 hectares of Alpine meadows on former shooting ranges by reintroducing traditional agroecosystems.
• Revitalizing 5 ponds, breeding grounds and habitat for endangered amphibians.
• Organizing conferences and guided walks tailored for schools, a virtual tour, and strategic placement of informative panels.

Expected Results

Our aim is to restore disappearing alpine ecosystems to enhance biodiversity: we envision bunkers as havens for endangered bats, rejuvenated meadow habitats and eco-services, and a thriving small alpine wetland with optimal conditions for wildlife survival, especially amphibians. Educational events will raise public awareness on the importance of healthy ecosystems, and eco-tourism will showcase this beautiful region and community.