On the 5-7th June 2019, IGCAT´s president and co-founder Dr. Diane Dodd contributed to the UNESCO international forum held in Mazatlán, Mexico, by explaining the importance of gastronomy in the sustainable development of cities. Her message correlates to the main topic of the forum which was titled ¨Creativity and cultural tourism for sustainable urban development¨, where the subject of how new strategies and initiatives could boost the promotion of heritage and creativity was debated.
One of the platforms for action in this context would be the arts, culture and gastronomy, IGCAT´s principal driving force. Here, the panel discussions were based on several principal questions, diving into the structure of necessary policies and governance systems to realise the sustainable urban development through culture and creativity. With representatives from the UNESCO Creative Cities Network and IGCAT´s expertise in the gastronomy sector, a stimulating exchange was made about learning processes and collaboration strategies.
Dr. Diane Dodd also delivered the closing key note speech addressing and highlighting how the focus areas from the Regions of Gastronomy project initiative supports the United Nation´s agenda for sustainable development goals in the year of 2030. These focus areas covers the subject of feeding the planet; innovation, creativity and job opportunities; educating for our future; balanced and sustainable tourism; linking urban and rural; and finally well-being and healthier living, which shares the same essence with several of the total 17 goals from the United Nations such as zero hunger, good health and well-being and quality education.
About the European Region of Gastronomy
Candidate and awarded Regions of Gastronomy from Europe, guided by IGCAT, are working together to raise awareness about the importance of their cultural and food uniqueness and share the long-term aim to: promote a better quality of life in European regions; highlight distinctive food cultures; educate for better health and sustainability; nurture creativity; improve tourism standards; and stimulate gastronomic innovation.
About IGCAT
IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance to safeguard and promote distinct food, culture, arts and sustainable tourism assets. This is essential to balance against globalised food trends that are impacting on our planet, health and local economies.
IGCAT is a non-profit institute established in 2012, working with regional stakeholder consortiums in the fields of gastronomy, culture, arts and tourism. It counts on the expertise of a worldwide network of experts and works in partnership with specialised intergovernmental organisations.
IGCAT provides the Region of Gastronomy Award and is the official secretariat for the European Region of Gastronomy Platform. Furthermore, the Institute has developed the European Young Chef Award the Local Food Gift Challenge, the Top Visitor Experience and the Food Film Menu.
12 June 2019
