Exploring Sustainable Solutions for Marginalised Mountainous Regions: A Reflection on MARGISTAR’s General Assembly

On the 17th and 18th of April, DCU Business School welcomed 36 international researchers for the MARGISTAR’s General Assembly. MARGISTAR, a collaborative initiative aimed at addressing the multifaceted challenges confronting marginalised mountainous regions. Hosted by DCU Business School and IIDB, the project’s annual General Assembly provided a platform for in-depth discussions and strategic planning to propel MARGISTAR’s mission forward.

MARGISTAR, a COST Action uniting over 130 scientists, policymakers, and local stakeholders from 30 countries, delves into the intricate web of natural, environmental, social, and economic dynamics within marginalised mountainous areas. With a focus on fostering real-world solutions and post-marginalisation pathways, the consortium embarks on a journey of collective action and innovation.

The event commenced with a Management Committee meeting, offering a comprehensive overview of the project’s progress and key managerial decisions. From structural adjustments to grant allocations for Short-Term Scientific Missions, the meeting set the stage for productive deliberations on future endeavours.

Day two unfolded with immersive engagements with rural stakeholders, providing invaluable insights into transformative initiatives at the grassroots level. At Teagasc, discussions with experts shed light on research-based knowledge sharing and advisory services, vital for sustainable agriculture and forest management. The dialogue underscored the significance of aligning timber production with biodiversity goals, epitomising the ethos of MARGISTAR’s sustainable development agenda.

The journey continued to the New Ross Municipal District, where conversations with community leaders illuminated past rural regeneration efforts and informed MARGISTAR’s evolving approach. Insights gleaned from interactions with local stakeholders, coupled with a tour of the town’s landmarks, offered a nuanced understanding of post-marginalisation pathways.

In the words of Prof Juha Hiedanpää from the Natural Resources Institute of Finland, “Meeting stakeholders involved in digital innovation and rural regeneration projects in rural Ireland gave us insight into transformative actions taking place at local levels.” These interactions not only enrich MARGISTAR’s research but also reaffirm its commitment to fostering sustainable futures for marginalised mountainous regions.

As MARGISTAR continues to forge partnerships and drive impactful change, the Dublin General Assembly stands as a testament to collaborative endeavours in pursuit of a more sustainable world.

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