The partners met last week in Arendal, Norway, at the offices of GRID-Arendal. Despite the very Norwegian weather, the group still dared to explore Raet National Park, guided by Lars Kullerud, President of the University of the Arctic (UArctic). This was followed by a presentation in his lovely home with coffee in front of a warm fire; true Norwegian ‘hygge’!
The working sessions enabled the partners to work on the final project deliverables, particularly by testing the certification tool, which comprises 65 indicators. The partners also coordinated the preparation of the upcoming webinar on the 10th of December, which will present the certification tool to race organisers.
The Tuesday session concluded with a screening, for GRID-Arendal employees, of the documentary produced by the project (available here).
A final meeting marked by collective reflections
As this was the last consortium meeting, partners took the opportunity to reflect on the project and share what stood out the most for them:Kilian Jornet Foundation: The project showed that trail running “has a lot to say and defend.” The team particularly enjoyed the debates around the tool’s indicators, which they see as key elements to help transform trail running. The collaboration with Österlen Spring Trail and Zegama races also highlighted how difficult change can be, but that only by analysing, engaging directly and facing obstacles can real solutions emerge.
Ecoserveis : The project was driven by “a strong feeling and purpose,” especially through the Österlen Spring Trail event. They also emphasised the pleasure of learning throughout the process and from the other partners.
ADP: The project came “at exactly the right moment.” GTC helped highlight what was already being done through the Österlen Spring Trail and build on it. It was also a pleasure to take part in the Erasmus+ project.
GRID-Arendal : The most exciting part was the collective work on the 65 indicators, trying to make them both feasible and genuinely environmentally meaningful.
The consortium meeting ended with a team-building session of curling in Kristiansand, which surprised most by being a lot more challenging than it looks!
