A regional economic network that supports farmers and helps protect biodiversity
Spessart is Germanys largest submountainous forest area, extending over parts of Bavaria and Hesse. Open spaces inside the forest are an important natural habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals. Open spaces were traditionally maintained by local farmers until economic changes in agriculture meant they were no longer able to preserve the forest's open spaces. The spaces and their rich biodiversity were consequently under threat by increasing bush encorachment.
We were commissioned by Naturepark Spessart to develop a strategy that achieves their ecological objectives and makes the preservation of openland spaces economically worthwhile for farmers. To accomplish both of the objectives we had to create a synthesis of economy and ecology.
After a first phase of research and concept development we proposed a strategy to preserve the open land reservations by building up a regional network to encourage extensive grazing of cattle and sheep. We emphasised the fact that this network should not only create horizontal connections between different farmers but also create synergy effects in vertical dimension. Thats why we designed a network of people who where connected to the issue in a direct economic way. Members should be farmers, butchers, local shops and restaurants.
We sketched out a brand strategy which positioned Grünland Spessart as a high-quality ethical food products priced between conventional meat products and luxury organic products. The strategic objective - to preserve openland areas through extensive grazing - is the central selling proposition of Grünland Spessart products.
Product and Service Design, Research, Strategy post by admin.