The main goal of implementing the BlossomingCities project was to develop and implement an innovative Pollinator-friendly training model for VET trainers. This model aimed to equip urban actors, including mayors, policymakers, city decision-makers, and practitioners, with the knowledge and skills to create pollinator-friendly urban environments. By engaging stakeholders from diverse backgrounds and fields of expertise, the project sought to address the decline of wild pollinator populations in urban settings through collaborative efforts at local, national, and European levels. The project aimed to: Develop a Pollinator-friendly training model for VET trainers. Engage urban actors in promoting pollinator-friendly practices. Target nature-based solutions to enhance urban biodiversity. Sensitize policymakers to support pollinator-friendly initiatives.
We applied for this project because there is a pressing need to address the decline of pollinator populations, which play a crucial role in global food production and ecosystem health. Reports indicate a significant decline in pollinator species due to factors like habitat loss and urbanization. Our partnership represents countries with varying levels of initiative in pollinator conservation, highlighting the need for coordinated efforts. Through our research, we identified a lack of comprehensive strategies and educational resources for city actors and urban planners to create pollinator-friendly environments. Thus, we sought to develop a training model to equip VET trainers with the tools and knowledge to educate stakeholders and promote pollinator conservation in urban settings.