How much potential do our rural villages hold? And how can we ensure a future for the communities living in them, without neglecting the environmental and social sustainabily?
We are talking about this in the interview with the Project Partner Coordinator Helle-Triin Hansumäe, from Tori Vald (EE), hosted by Roland Krebs, urbanist and Lead Expert from the ECONNECTING network.
Tori Vald, Estonia, is one of the eight partners of the APN "ECONNECTING", which is tackling the mobility challenges affecting rural areas from an integrated perspective, in other words, taking into account sustainability, gender gaps and accessibility of facilities. Helle-Triin shares Tori Vald’s journey as part of the ECONNECTING network.
Tori Vald’s commitment to sustainability
In this interview, Helle-Triin discusses how Tori Vald prioritizes high-quality living through initiatives like biodiversity preservation and a public space strategy that includes residents’ participation. Their journey towards sustainability isn’t just about buildings or infrastructure; it's about transforming how people move, live, and connect. Their involvement stems from a deep commitment to sustainability, due to the presence of a rich and fascinating natural heritage (marshes, bog forests, several rivers, dense wood fields, several natural preserved areas…).
Plans for the Future
One of the most exciting parts of Tori Vald’s plan is their focus on revitalizing a small village of only 250 inhabitants, Jõesuu village. Surrounded by natural beauty and brimming with potential, the village has already experienced a small-scale action that could soon become a model for how smaller communities can thrive with the right support. Helle-Triin explains that how local residents are involved in the planning process of designing a new park, through think thanks and entertainment. Through this experimental project, Tori Vald hopes to provide basic services and create sustainable transport connections for its residents.
Learning from the ECONNECTING Network
Being part of the ECONNECTING network has opened Tori Vald’s eyes to new possibilities, particularly in digital solutions. Inspired by the digital hubs in Ennis, Ireland, they’re considering introducing similar hubs to connect young people and students to new educational and social opportunities.
Helle-Triin’s interview reveals that while each city in the network faces different challenges, the problems they tackle are often remarkably similar. This shared understanding allows for innovative ideas to spread across borders.
Join us in this fascinating discussion about the future of Tori Vald and the lessons learned from the ECONNECTING network!