Benevento, though smaller in size compared to other Italian cities, holds significant importance as a central urban hub in the inland regions of southern Italy. Nested in the middle of the Campania region, and with limited urban and transport development nearby, the city offers access to natural areas and national parks just a few kilometers away.

In response to the growing encroachment of urbanization on natural spaces, WWF Sannio, in collaboration with the University of Agraria and with support from the Foundation for the South, has launched the "Sveliamo la Dormiente" (Revealing the Sleeper) project. The name "Dormiente" refers to the mountain closest to Benevento, which also hosts the current Taburno Oasis.

The project seeks to promote more sustainable use of the park by both occasional and frequent visitors. This goal will be reached by raising awareness of the park's facilities, services, products, and natural resources. It is expected that this will lead to greater engagement from both citizens and tourists. Essential actions to ensure the responsible use of park resources include:

●    Mapping, categorizing, and documenting trails, accompanied by the creation of electronic and printed maps.
●    Conducting trail maintenance through minor interventions to ensure safe usage.
●    Organizing events to promote awareness of trails and their associated environmental, historical, and culinary offerings.
●    Compiling an atlas of the park's flora and fauna, drawing on data collected from monitoring and conservation endeavours.
●    
A pivotal strategy of the project involves forging partnerships with qualified professionals possessing relevant expertise, local associations deeply acquainted with the territory, and key institutions responsible for public welfare management and conservation policies.

The scientific aspect of this collaboration involves the collection, monitoring, and analysis of data, enriching and supplementing shared knowledge alongside local communities.

Additionally, the project includes a range of initiatives such as seminars, educational activities, foraging, and training for future forest operators responsible for propagating native species, alongside promoting sustainable forest management practices. Effective communication efforts, including the creation of a website and a robust social media presence, are essential components of the initiative.

The Taburno Oasis serves as a cornerstone in preserving local biodiversity, fostering environmental equilibrium, and nurturing the presence of unique plant and animal species within the region. 

https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=18TTJqmi4L99kYglLp1xJE-ZX2dE&hl=it&ll=41.172138184479316%2C14.645336000000002&z=12
www.svegliamoladormiente.net
https://www.wwf.it/chi-siamo/presenza-sul-territorio/organizzazioni-locali/wwf-sannio/
https://www.unisannio.it/it/ateneo/unisannio/ateneo-citta
https://comunitamontanataburno.it/
 

Direct SGDs:

• SDG 15: Life on land.: Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss.https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal15#targets_and_indicators
  The project is directly related to this goal, as it focuses on biodiversity conservation, sustainable management of natural resources and promotion of sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.

Indirect SDGs: 

• SDG 4: Quality education - Through educational activities and community involvement, the project contributes to the goal of ensuring quality education and promoting learning opportunities for all

• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities -  the project can support the creation of sustainable communities by encouraging the proper use of natural resources and promoting community participation in land management.
• SDG 12: Sustainable production and consumption - By promoting sustainability in park enjoyment and raising awareness of environmental resources, the project influence production and consumption behaviors in the region.
• SDG 13: Climate Action - By contributing to sustainable natural resource management and environmental awareness, the project  have an impact on climate change mitigation and on air quality in the urban space.

Justification:
The Oasis plays a key role in the conservation of local biodiversity, helping to maintain a balanced environment and fostering the presence of plant and animal species unique to the region.

1. What are the main actions the project implements to enhance the sustainability of visitor activities in Taburno Park?
2. In what ways does the project involve the local community in managing and conserving the area, and what benefits are expected for community members?
3. How does the Taburno Oasis contribute to preserving regional biodiversity, and how can it promote sustainable development and economic growth locally? 
    

Agostino Cefalo, Gramigna ODV