“Slow” Projects and Characteristics of the Municipality of Pijao

2014 certification assessment

Environmental Protection and Energy: Located in the Andean mountains, Pijao was described in the assessment as an agricultural town with a rich variety of flora and fauna and little air pollution associated with industrial activity. A waste separation and treatment system had been introduced, although it remained incomplete. Educational initiatives promoted responsible waste management and water conservation, with contributions from local authorities and the Pijao Cittaslow Foundation. Improving water supply and sanitation remained a priority: the assessment reported that filtered mountain water still required boiling, while a wastewater treatment plant was proposed. Improvements to public lighting were also being pursued in areas with insufficient coverage.

Urban Quality and Resilience: Community awareness campaigns encouraged the preservation of public spaces and traditional architecture. Activities included improving the main street and parks and planting flowers in public areas and around private homes. Accessibility measures had been introduced at the central park, town hall and public hospital, although improvements had not yet extended to the school. Sustainability featured in discussions surrounding the local development plan, and some ecological farms explored the use of local construction materials. Plans also envisaged internet access for low-income households and Wi-Fi in the main square.

Slow Mobility: Campaigns encouraged bicycle use within Pijao’s compact urban area. The assessment highlighted low traffic volumes and limited private car use, allowing cyclists to share existing streets. An ecological trail programme was also under development around the town, envisaging a 30 km network of paths, native tree planting, signage and stopping points at surrounding farms.

Agriculture, Local Products, and Traditions: Pijao’s agricultural identity was reflected in coffee production, local food and handmade crafts. Farmers’ markets had been organised, and additional spaces for selling local products were being developed. Public catering used products such as plantains, bananas, cassava and trout, with some organic produce also reported. Cooperation between the Pijao Cittaslow Foundation and a national educational institution supported courses in local and organic cuisine. Partnerships involving the municipality, the local Cittaslow organisation and regional institutions promoted local gastronomy, home gardening and food production. An initiative with the Ministry of Agriculture encouraged local sales of organic eggs. Activities also sought to strengthen appreciation of traditional crafts and revive local rural music.

Social Cohesion and Health Services: Community initiatives included sports, crafts, urban gardening, dance, hiking and local gastronomy. National programmes provided nutritional and educational support for pregnant women, while a children’s and family care centre supported local families. Youth provision included a youth centre, sports facilities, chess and dance schools, and music groups supported by municipal policies. Vocational courses and scholarships helped young people continue their education. The local development plan included programmes for people with disabilities, although the assessment noted limited results. National assistance programmes supported displaced people, and public housing initiatives aimed to improve living conditions for households with limited resources.

Slow Tourism and Hospitality: Pijao was developing its profile as a tranquil tourist destination, drawing on a local culture of hospitality and accommodation in family homes. The assessment recorded approximately 50 beds in this type of accommodation. Community-based tourism was being developed as a potential source of opportunities for young people. Cooperation with a Spanish organisation promoting fair and responsible tourism supported training for residents and traders. A separate collaboration concerning the certification of tourism infrastructure was still in progress. The Pijao Cittaslow Foundation, together with national and international volunteers, delivered workshops and continuing awareness activities on Cittaslow principles and practices.

List of Events

Farmers’ Markets: Markets had been organised to support the sale of local agricultural products and strengthen connections between producers and consumers. The assessment did not specify dates or frequency.

Traditional Rural Music and Cultural Activities: Initiatives sought to revive local farmers’ music and other cultural practices. No named festival or event calendar was provided.

Local Cuisine Courses: Educational activities promoted local gastronomy and organic food through cooperation between the Pijao Cittaslow Foundation and a national educational institution.

Cittaslow Awareness Workshops: Workshops involving residents, volunteers and different sectors of the community introduced Cittaslow’s vision, principles and everyday practices.