The challenges addressed by the Living Lab are related to coexistence with large and medium-sized carnivores, such as wolves, bears, lynxes and jackals. These carnivores are present in Slovenia and represent a significant challenge, especially in protecting domestic animals, preventing damage, understanding their behavior and establishing effective and socially acceptable measures to reduce conflicts.
In addition to the challenges, their presence also brings significant advantages, as it indicates preserved habitats and biodiversity and offers opportunities for the development of educational programs, nature interpretations and sustainable tourism. It also enables the connection of local communities, researchers and nature managers in the design of innovative coexistence practices.
Within the framework of the Living Lab, solutions are co-designed in collaboration with stakeholders. The theme of the living laboratories in Slovenia is focused on spreading knowledge and raising awareness about the importance of coexistence with large carnivores and on identifying the challenges and opportunities that their presence brings. Special emphasis is placed on raising awareness and education, sustainable tourism, interpretation of nature and the active role of local residents in preserving biodiversity. Since the living laboratories also take place in the area of Slovenian Istria, we focused part of the activities on the jackal, which has become a permanently present species here in recent years.
As part of this activity, we expect that prototype tools for education, awareness-raising and sustainable tourism will be designed and developed, including in the form of gamification and edutainment.
During the workshops, participants learn about content already developed by experts, existing tools and materials in education and awareness-raising. This encourages them to exchange personal views, experiences and ideas and develop their own prototypes.
