#IMC: September 14 - 18 2025

Education, research and dissemination activities to foster sustainable development: the unique experience of the University of Milan – UNIMONT centre

Assigned Session: FS 3.234: Digital Technologies and Sustainable Mountain Development

Abstract ID: 3.10625 | Accepted as Talk | Talk | TBA | TBA

Anna Giorgi (1)
Stefano Sala (1), Luca Ghirardelli (1)
(1) 1. Centre of Applied Studies for the Sustainable Management and Protection of Mountain Areas (CRC Ge.S.Di.Mont.), Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Milan, Italy, Via Morino 8, 25048, Edolo (BS)

Categories: Culture, Education, Sustainable Development
Keywords: Sustainable Technology, Education, Place based education, Mountain Development

Categories: Culture, Education, Sustainable Development
Keywords: Sustainable Technology, Education, Place based education, Mountain Development

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Italy, with 35,2% of its territory classified as mountainous, is one of the most mountainous countries in Europe. 12,1% of Italians live in mountain areas, primarily in small municipalities with fewer than 5.000 inhabitants. These remote villages often face socio-economic challenges and are classified as “marginal” areas. However, they also possess unique resources & untapped market potential for young entrepreneurs in both traditional and emerging green and digital sectors. Established in 1996, UNIMONT, a satellite center of the University of Milan located in Edolo— a small municipality in the central Italian Alps— serves as a pioneering model of how digital technologies can drive sustainable development in mountain regions. UNIMONT leverages digital tools to enhance place-based education, research, and knowledge dissemination, fostering innovation in mountain communities. UNIMONT offers on-site, face-to-face learning for its degree programs, with 250 students in the 2024/25 academic year. At the same time, through innovative use of technology, UNIMONT extends its reach beyond the physical classroom, connecting with individuals and institutions in other mountain areas across Italy and beyond. Since 2012, UNIMONT has organised 506 seminars, nearly all of which have been accessible remotely. The recordings are available on their YouTube channel, and the total number of participants has reached 29.563. Over the past five years, the UNIMONT website has recorded an average of 385.383 annual visits, while its community has grown to include more than 35.000 mailing list subscribers and a large network of social media followers. This presentation highlights how higher education institutionscan play a pivotal role in empowering mountain communities. By integrating digital solutions into education and research, UNIMONT exemplifies how technology-driven approaches can strengthen local economies, support climate adaptation, and promote inclusive and sustainable development in mountainous areas.

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