Across Mediterranean territories, biodiversity is deeply connected with food traditions, cultural landscapes, artisanal practices and ways of life shaped over generations. Local cheeses, breads, wines, honey, preserved foods, fishing techniques, farming systems and seasonal customs are not only products of the land — they are living expressions of identity, memory and community resilience.

Today, many of these resources are under growing pressure. Climate change, biodiversity loss, ageing rural populations, changing consumption patterns, industrial standardisation and unsustainable tourism models are accelerating the disappearance of traditional knowledge, local professions and place-based heritage.

INSPIRE supports communities in recognising, preserving and transmitting the natural and cultural wealth that makes each territory unique. Protecting biodiversity also means protecting the people, stories and practices that keep local ecosystems and food cultures alive.

Through participatory mapping, storytelling and collaboration, the Crowdmapping Platform helps make these assets visible, strengthens awareness of their value, and supports better-informed local planning and sustainable tourism choices.

By documenting traditional products, local professions, cultural landscapes and community knowledge, the platform contributes to safeguarding Mediterranean heritage for future generations while reinforcing the distinct identity and attractiveness of each destination.