Global
The SUBLIME project brought together a transnational research team to conduct a participatory investigation focusing on the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within ten small towns and islands located at the edges of Europe. This initiative aimed to build shared knowledge around local opportunities and challenges through active engagement with community members.
Across communities ranging from Lesvos to Lampedusa, over 450 residents of diverse ages participated in the research. Their contributions, gathered through surveys and interviews, included perspectives from local authorities, civil society organizations, youth and women activists, educators and representatives of professional associations. This broad stakeholder involvement was crucial to understanding the unique contexts and needs of each locality.
Despite a generally limited awareness of the 2030 Agenda within these frontier communities, local actors are making significant strides toward sustainable development. The research identified over 250 civil society organizations actively working to effect positive change, alongside 20 exemplary local practices that demonstrate effective approaches to sustainability. These findings highlight both the challenges of limited awareness and the opportunities presented by existing local mobilization.
The study (download the guidelines here) nconcentrated on progress related to several key Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 4 – Quality Education, SDG 5 – Gender Equality, SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities, SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 13 – Climate Action, SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals.
The mapping initiative included the following towns and islands (click on the names below to download the field research):
Lampedusa and Linosa (Italy)
Strass und Steiermark (Austria)
Burgas (Bulgaria)
ANEL Towns (Cyprus)
West Lesvos (Greece)
Kisharsány and Siklós area (Hungary)
Msida (Malta)
Poznań District (Poland)
Tulcea (Romania)
Crnomelj (Slovenia)
The Coast of Nord and Pas-de-Calais (France)
This mapping initiative shines a light on the vibrant and often underrecognized efforts of peripheral communities in shaping inclusive and sustainable futures. By documenting local actions and highlighting existing opportunities, the SUBLIME project demonstrates the potential for progress toward the SDGs, even in regions facing significant challenges.