The project strategy 

Objectives:

The CleanA⅃ꟼ project works to restore biodiversity on Alpine trails by cleaning up/collecting abandoned, lost, forgotten, and hidden waste (mainly plastic) and will promote awareness of the extraordinary Alpine biodiversity at risk through excursions open to all and led by experts and researchers. raising awareness of the importance of protecting the natural alpine environment for human life and well-being (including economic well-being); spreading knowledge and education for students, training for professionals, and events for the general public on plastic pollution and prevention in the alpine areas concerned.

This area is considered one of Europe's most valuable biodiversity hotspots, with a high number of endemic species. 

The aim is to promote active, informed, and practical protection of the high-altitude Alpine habitat, keeping it healthy, vibrant, and resilient. This is one of the last unspoiled environments in southern Europe, home to precious ungulates, carnivores, birds, flowers, and plants, which are also under serious threat from climate change.

Cleanup actions: 

The core of the project involves the manual removal and accurate recording, for research purposes, of waste found along alpine trails, on the banks of lakes and streams, and in the most remote mountain areas, covering a vast area of the entire northwestern Italian Alps. Participants (who are provided with gloves), guided by experts, collect plastic and other polluting materials, helping to restore purity to these unspoiled landscapes but above all to understand the situation in a very precise way and to promote direct and concrete prevention actions. The aim is not only to clean up the environment, but also to raise awareness among participants and visitors of the importance of behaving in a way that respects nature.

Involvement of stakeholders:  

The success of these initiatives is made possible by the extensive network of participants, collaborations with local park authorities, local authorities, environmental, civic, and mountain volunteer organizations in particular, schools, and communities. 

Involving stakeholders encourages active participation and long-term support, creating a support network that multiplies the positive impact—both ecological and social—of the project. Partnerships with refuge managers and guides are essential for raising awareness on this issue as well.

‍