Eight members of our team visited the Apennines in Italy to get to know one of the areas covered by Rewilding Europe. In keeping with our philosophy, we travelled to Rewilding Apennines by land and enjoyed the journey through the Alps and various stopovers in Verona, Bologna and Rome, among other places.

Learning from Nature

The first day was dedicated to freshwater ecosystems. We visited a crayfish breeding station, where we learned how pollution, disease, invasive species and climate change threaten the white-clawed crayfish. Despite heavy rain this summer, rivers in parts of the region have dried out, underlining the urgency of restoration. In the afternoon, 40 young crayfish were carefully carried from tanks to a mountain stream, where the team helped with their release into the wild.

The following morning took us to Pettorano. Working alongside local experts, we searched for animal signs, checked camera traps and reviewed footage showing deer, a wolf, a badger and a squirrel. Later, we climbed to Pettorano’s castle for a presentation on protecting the rare Marsican brown bear. The team around Mario Cippolone, supported by enthusiastic volunteers, is building “bear-friendly communities” with measures such as bear-safe bins, fruit tree management, education projects and cultural events. Their commitment is paying off, with the bear population now estimated at 50 to 70 individuals.

Why It Matters

We as humans need to understand that we are part and partners of nature and that biodiversity is the foundation of our existence. Without ecological sustainability, there will be no social or economic sustainability. To embed this awareness in the real estate industry, we are all the more motivated in our partnership with Rewilding Europe.

As Ingemar reflected:
“Biodiversity will play an increasingly important role in shaping the built environment. That is why partnering with organisations like Rewilding Europe and learning from each other feels so meaningful today — and will shape our impact tomorrow.”

Our time in the Central Apennines was inspiring and eye-opening. It strengthened our belief that the future of real estate must be intertwined with the future of ecosystems. Working hand in hand with partners, communities and nature itself, we can ensure our impact is both lasting and positive.

Looking Ahead

Our next trip with Rewilding Europe will take us to the  Rewilding OderDelta later this month. There we will join clean-up days in the area, contributing to another landscape where people and nature are finding ways to thrive together.