In a significant step towards promoting its rich culinary heritage, Nordland officially signed a Protocol Agreement on 15 September, marking its entry as a candidate for the prestigious European Region of Gastronomy title (possibly as early as 2028). The agreement was signed by Dr. Diane Dodd, President of IGCAT (International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts, and Tourism), and Per Theodor Tørrissen, Director of ArktiskMat.
The signing ceremony solidifies Nordland’s commitment to the European Region of Gastronomy platform, where it will collaborate with other regions to promote sustainable food cultures, local gastronomy, and regional development. Nordland now joins a distinguished network of regions striving to celebrate and elevate their local food traditions on the European stage.
“We are thrilled to welcome Nordland into the platform and as a candidate for the European Region of Gastronomy Award. I am deeply impressed with the ArktistMak event for its outward reaching approach and shared values on sustainable food systems. I congratulate the team for all its projects and future plans. The European Region of Gastronomy Award will be an exciting opportunity for the region to showcase its unique Arctic gastronomy and culture to the World and, internally to extend regenerative food values across other sectors such as education and tourism,” said Dr. Dodd.
Per Theodor Tørrissen expressed enthusiasm about the potential of the initiative, highlighting how Nordland’s participation can strengthen local food systems and contribute to sustainable tourism.
The candidacy and the newly signed agreement represent a significant milestone for Nordland, as the region aims to bring attention to its culinary traditions and position itself as a leading gastronomic destination in Europe.
About the World/European Regions of Gastronomy
World/European Regions of Gastronomy, guided by IGCAT, are working together to strengthen food security through the celebration of distinctive food cultures; create employment by stimulating creativity and gastronomic innovation; nourish children and adults through culinary and cultural education; driving environmental sustainability in tourism, hospitality and agricultural sectors; supporting balance and sustainable tourism practices; highlighting and supporting expertise from within rural and urban communities, creating connections and sharing good practices; and contributing to community health and well-being.
About IGCAT
IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance of protecting and promoting distinct regional food, culture, arts and natural assets as part of sustainable and balanced tourism and development strategies. This is essential to safeguarding our planet, health, wellness 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 founded the World/European Region of Gastronomy Award and is the official secretariat for the World/European Regions of Gastronomy Platforms. Furthermore, the Institute has developed the European Young Chef Award, the World Food Gift Challenge, the Top Websites for Foodie Travelers Award and the international Food Film Menu.
16 September 2024
