"Slow" Projects and Characteristics of the Municipality of Bellano

Environmental Protection and Energy: Significant results have been achieved in waste sorting (86.38% in 2023) through a pay-as-you-throw pricing system. Measures are in place to reduce plastic use—such as washable tableware in canteens and mandatory composting at local festivals—and a public water kiosk and free dispensers (including at the Municipal Cinema) have been installed. Regarding energy, the Municipality focuses on efficiency: photovoltaic panels on schools (covering 90% of the buildings' consumption), agreements for locally sourced hydroelectric power, LED street lighting upgrades, the installation of charging stations for cars and e-bikes, and the ongoing establishment of an Energy Community (CER). An innovative system for recovering treated wastewater (via Lario Reti Holding) for street cleaning is also in use.

Agriculture, Craftsmanship, and Local Products: Establishment of a Local Trade District (DID) to safeguard local shops and the "RADICI" Land Association to restore abandoned terraced land and alpine pastures (where local products are sold). Strong emphasis on protecting traditional foods—including local *missoltino* fish and olive oil—incorporating "zero-mile" sourcing into school canteen contracts, and promoting the MUU (Museum of Milk and the History of Muggiasca).

Urban Quality and Resilience: Approval of the new PGT (Territorial Government Plan), which focuses on preventing the consumption of new agricultural land ("zero land take") and on urban regeneration, such as the "Parco Lorla" project. The town is becoming a "wired city" thanks to fiber-optic infrastructure (Open Fiber), and the "Bellano Informa" app is currently active. Plans for the Removal of Architectural Barriers (PEBA) have already been funded.

Infrastructure and Mobility: Establishment of Limited Traffic Zones (ZTL) in the historic center to reduce noise and air pollution. The Municipality has implemented electric car-sharing (E-VAI) and bike-sharing services, in addition to purchasing electric vehicles for the local police. A significant agreement with public transport operators (Trenord and Navigazione Laghi) offers admission discounts for the "Orrido di Bellano" (Bellano Gorge) to those using public transport.

Slow Tourism and Hospitality: The area is promoted through a Regional Info-point, the "Discovering Bellano" tourism portal, and dedicated guides featuring 15 mapped itineraries and trails for slow tourism, alongside initiatives linked to the "Bellano Friendly" brand.

Participation and Social Cohesion: Strong focus on social welfare, with 100% coverage for childcare services and funds allocated for projects supporting social-occupational integration and disability inclusion. Promotion of public assemblies (bottom-up approach) for strategic municipal decision-making.