07/05/2020

The National Rural Network has held the first online exchange of experiences among Local Action Groups, entitled "Biosphere Foods," promoted by the Mariñas-Betanzos Regional Government (RGD). This virtual meeting brought together representatives from 32 Local Action Groups and managers of more than 20 Biosphere Reserves to share their experiences with the incorporation of company products and services into the "Spanish Biosphere Reserves" brand, highlighting the natural and artisanal products of the regions.

The Mariñas-Betanzos Rural Development Group , host of this exchange, proposed this meeting with the aim of promoting a shared network between Local Action Groups and Biosphere Reserves to promote short food circuits associated with the Biosphere Reserve brand . To this end, the commitment and participation of the population, organizations, and public administrations are three key elements highlighted by Beni Rodríguez, President of the Council of Biosphere Reserve Managers, in achieving a territory designated and recognized by UNESCO to promote sustainable development models.

Francisco Cantos, Secretary of the Spanish Biosphere Reserve Brands Committee of the Autonomous National Parks Agency , has recognized the Biosphere Reserves' track record in supporting the socioeconomic development of their territories, highlighting their commitment to sustainability and helping entrepreneurs linked to Biosphere Reserves establish population in rural areas.

The commitment to a local food system —through the promotion of short-term food supply chains and the enhancement of the territory—are the driving forces behind the launch of the Mariñas Coruñesas and Terras do Mandeo Biosphere Reserves brand. Miguel Fernández, a technician from the Mariñas Betanzos Regional Government (GDR), presented the Group's experience in implementing the brand, sharing the vision with other groups that have been involved in the process.

The results of the Local Action Groups' worksheets were also presented, with the aim of generating a space for dialogue that would encourage joint reflection and participation , seeking to identify the advantages and opportunities presented by this joint work, as well as to learn from the obstacles and limitations that arise during the process and the possible solutions to overcome them.

Through these types of actions, the National Rural Network promotes the implementation of joint initiatives, fostering the work of Local Action Groups and enabling the search for innovative solutions tailored to the current situation, addressing current needs and future challenges.