From SuperAlp! to SuperCarpatica!

SuperAlp!2 consisted of a demonstrative crossing of the Alps using only sustainable means of transport: bike, train, bus, cableway, without forgetting the most eco-friendly and the natural way: walking. However, this project was more than just a journey across the Alps. The 2008 edition, put into practice by Marcella Morandini, wanted to make this crossing an occasion to discover the different existing networks, also at the local level, which contributed to the creation of a good future for the alpine nature and communities, in compliance with the principles of the Alpine Convention.

The Alpine Convention will support such sustainable projects in the Carpathian region. "If crossing the Alps, from Chambery in France via Switzerland and Austria, up to the Italian Dolomites, has been a project with an obvious success, you have my guarantee that, at least as a good practice and know-how this will be applied in the Carpathians probably next year," said the Secretary General of the Alpine Convention, Marco Onida.

"We are open to participate in such a project in the Carpathian mountains, and, inevitably, I suggest its name: SuperCarpatica!", added Onida. The aim was to discover and ask about the different networks, especially at the local level, to highlight the foundation for cooperation between alpine mountain communities. Moreover, the project was set to be an example of good practice which could be "exported" to other mountain areas rich in biodiversity and traditions such as Carpathians, concluded Onida.

Encouraging consumption of local products, presentation of eco-initiatives, in alpine towns or in tourist destinations, such as sustainable mass transport, generation of energy from biomass or protection of flora and fauna were the strengths of the project.