Bridging Generations Through Nature's Legacy
Elderly residents of Bergamo, who have rekindled their connection with nature later in life, have cultivated practices to preserve it with great pride and joy. Eager to share these meaningful traditions, they see them as a reflection of their identity and values.
In a two-week exploration of life-centered design, the team developed the idea of “Eco Exchange”, a city-wide initiative to unite people passionate about ecology and sustainability. Eco Exchange enables seniors to share their "nature artifacts," exchange stories, and build connections across generations. The name “Eco” signifies ecology and the lasting impact of shared knowledge, while “Exchange” represents both asynchronous sharing and in-person meet-ups.
Initially prototyping a “cut-and-grow” plant exchange, the team quickly realized the need for a broader platform. The concept evolved from a single solution to a flexible “canvas for all,” allowing the elderly to share a variety of nature-related practices, inspiring younger generations to appreciate and carry forward these legacies.
The Eco Exchange not only preserves Bergamo’s cultural and ecological richness but also fosters a vibrant space for dialogue, creativity, and mutual respect, ensuring these meaningful legacies thrive for generations to come.
