The students and professors of the Master in Sustainability Science and Technology participated in a visit to the Priorat region.

Dec 01, 2023

On 24 and 25 November, students and professors of the Master in Sustainability Science and Technology of the UPC took part in an academic trip to the Priorat region.

During this excursion, participants have had the opportunity to learn about the main initiatives and actions for territorial development, as well as the strategies that are being carried out from local institutions. They have also been able to explore the processes of adaptation to climate change, without forgetting other productive sectors, the landscape, biodiversity and the rich heritage of the area.

The first stop was in Falset, where Joan Vaqué, president of the Prioritat associationand coordinator of the area of development, landscape and sustainability of the Regional Council, exposed the expectations and strategies of the main territorial development, Vaqué also deepened the local vision for the future of the Priorat, as well as the social struggles that have already taken place in this territory and the results obtained. On the other hand, Elisa Barceló, technician of the Specialization and Competitiveness Project, presented the main strategies that are being applied of good agricultural practices to mitigate climate change, take care of local biodiversity and value the culture and social fabric of the Priorat.

Later, the visit continued to learn about a case of local entrepreneurship at Formatgeria Linens, which is located at Bellmunt del Priorat and is managed by 3 sisters. Here the story was told of how this project was born, the challenges they have experienced and their expectations for the future. In addition, it was possible to know a little more about the process of making goat cheese, the importance of local networks and the initiatives that are born in these communities.

After moving to Cornudella de Montsant, at the foot of the mountain of the same name, the visit continued to Cooperative Winery of Cornudella, where the wonderful Bodega de l'any 1919  , designed by the architect Cèsar Martinell. Here the history and unique characteristics of the wine of the area were explained, as well as how this cooperative was born and the process and facilities for the elaboration and bottling of the wine. This stop and the day ended with a wine tasting activity and local products before going to the shelter to spend the night.

During the next day was presented the Plan of the Serra del Montsant Park, its activities, environmental education and management of uses. Afterwards, students and teachers took a guided tour of the itineraries of the park, getting to know the local landscapes and delving into sustainable and innovative strategies in wine management. Finally, after the walk, students and teachers undertook the return to Barcelona.

We greatly appreciate all those people and local organizations who received us in the Priorat and made this visit an unforgettable experience.