Abstract ID: 3.12539 | Accepted as Talk | Talk/Oral | TBA | TBA

This study investigates the role played by cultural heritage in fostering community resilience to natural hazards in Val Resia, a mountain valley recognized within the Julian Alps Biosphere Reserve. Conducted as part of the RETURN partnership funded by the PNRR, the research aimed at co-developing an understanding of how intangible values – such as cultural identity, collective experiences and local practices- are key factors in fostering community resilience to natural hazard risks and can be linked to different phases in the disaster risk management of the valley. The project used transdisciplinary participatory methods, engaging with community members, local associations, and stakeholders affiliated to the Biosphere Reserve to reflect on the unique cultural identity of Val Resia, and its role in the community’s historical resilience to natural hazards. Empirical data collection was conducted with the support of the Julian Alps Biosphere Reserve, co-defining the workshop modalities through the definition core topics of interest for the community, stakeholder inclusion and participatory methods. Data was analyzed through coding with the support of qualitative data analysis software and tested against a conceptual framework. Key findings highlight the community’s attachment to the territory, expressed through local cultural practices and rich local knowledge. Deeper insights into results present possible contributions of identified elements and expression of cultural heritage and local knowledge to different phase of community-based disaster risk management. The study also revealed the challenges of investigating the connection between cultural heritage and resilience through participatory processes, with insights on the adopted methods and practical recommendations. Aligned with the Biosphere Reserve governance principle, our research underscores the importance of community involvement in co-producing knowledge to develop risk management strategies rooted in the fundamental relationships between communities, cultural heritage, and the environment. Main intended output of this study is to contribute to the development of a replicable model for communities facing similar hazards, emphasizing the role of cultural heritage in fostering resilient societies.