How Sismògraf and Som(riu) festivals foster sustainable innovation in rural settings.
An article by Manel González Piñero that explores festivals that promote cultural identity and social cohesion.
This chapter examines the intersection of festivals, innovation, and sustainability through two Catalan examples—Sismògraf in Olot and Som(riu) in Aldover. Sismògraf, originally a dance festival, now includes multidisciplinary programming that emphasizes sustainability, drawing on its unique setting in the Garrotxa Volcanic Natural Park. Som(riu) in the Terres de l’Ebre, recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, merges live arts and environmental activism, engaging the community in sustainable practices.
Through the case studies of Sismògraf and Som(riu), this chapter explores how rural festivals balance cultural heritage with global sustainability goals. The chapter aims to illustrate how festivals foster innovation, promote environmental awareness, and engage communities in sustainable practices, contributing to a more sustainable future informed by local culture and ecology.
You can visit it in this article: https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003584087-19
González-Piñero, M. (2025). What a wonderful world: How the Sismògraf and Som(riu) festivals foster sustainable innovation in rural settings. In B. Mickov (Ed), Culture, Innovation and the Green Economy: Towards a sustainable future in Europe. Routledge, 248 Pages. ISBN 9781032952772
