Cultural heritage serves as a cornerstone of identity and creativity for communities, while its utilization can play a pivotal role in strengthening creative professions and facilitating the transition to a circular economy. Within this framework, the INTERACTION project highlights ways in which countries such as Greece, Cyprus, North Macedonia, Lithuania, and Poland can leverage their cultural heritage to promote sustainable development and social innovation.
As part of INTERACTION, we explored specific examples of cultural heritage that can inspire young creative professionals. These have been compiled into our forthcoming database, the Inspiration Library, which will be available soon. From Greece, with its classical tradition, archaeological monuments, and folk art that serve as reference points for numerous creative fields, to Cyprus, with its rich cultural identity that inspires craftsmanship and creative industries, especially in jewelry design and traditional weaving. Similarly, North Macedonia’s cultural traditions and folklore find expression in contemporary art, while Lithuania and Poland draw upon their national traditions and histories to create music, literature, and visual arts. These countries maintain strong ties with their communities through local festivals, cultural events, and national holidays, which foster creativity and economic growth.
On the other hand, a key aspect of the INTERACTION project is the connection between cultural heritage, sustainable development, and the circular economy. The circular economy is based on the principles of reuse, recycling, and value creation from existing resources. In the context of cultural heritage, this translates into the restoration of old buildings, the use of traditional techniques for sustainable production, and the promotion of sustainability within creative industries.
For example, in Greece, the reuse of stone and wood from historical structures highlights the value of traditional architecture. In Cyprus, the use of local materials in handcrafted arts promotes self-sufficiency and environmental awareness. In Lithuania, the regeneration of old industrial areas into cultural hubs serves as a model of circular economy practices.
The INTERACTION project supports the integration of cultural heritage, creativity, and the circular economy through cross-border collaboration. It offers a platform for exchanging best practices, fostering innovation, and strengthening social cohesion.
Cultural heritage is not merely a relic of the past; it is a foundation for the future. By linking traditions with creative industries and the principles of the circular economy, we can build more sustainable and resilient societies. Collaboration between countries demonstrates that cultural heritage can be a driving force for innovation and economic prosperity.
Stay tuned for the launch of INTERACTION’s Inspiration Library, coming soon!
