Small community Leivi explores tourism angle in SEAP

Author: Maryke VAN STADEN, Communications Officer, Energy for Mayors, Germany - Email

Leivi in the Province of Genova, Italy, with its 2.322 inhabitants, has approved its Sustainable Energy Action Plan (SEAP) on 28 March 2011. This was the second Municipality in the Province to sign the Covenant of Mayors (in 2009) committing to reduce more than 20% CO₂ emissions by 2020. It is interesting to explore the SEAP approach taken by this small community - focusing on elements that can help improve the local quality of life and stimulate economic development.   

Citizen involvement in activities is a major element in the SEAP, with an additional focus also on the main economic sectors: agriculture, woodcraft and tourism. Typical emissions reduction measures are planned both in the private and public sector address buildings, the renewal of the public lighting system, as well as the use of renewable energy for electricity and transport of all local government operations.

This small community is also a tourist destination. The municipality assessed territory resources and decided to include the restoration of cultural and touristic paths, thereby optimizing connections between different areas. Citizens and tourists will be provided with a sustainable alternative to cars – with walkways along beautiful landscapes. Further a typical Italian cultural element was included: Leivi is particularly treasured for its olive oil manufacturing. Olive waste will be used for energy generation – for example using olive stones as biomass to contribute to heating public buildings.

This approach developed by the administration is helping to raise awareness among civil society, encouraging involvement, increasing smart behavior - towards new and sustainable development model.

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