BURGOS

ABOUT PILOT AREA

The wood-related industry is of paramount importance in the region, as municipalities own 80% of the total area (communal forest property), with timber harvesting being a traditional activity. R&D activities explore forestry-related potentials, and public support mechanisms, such as Forest Management Plans, are in place. Cultural and natural tourism activities significantly boost the local economy. Priorities include cultural initiatives, digital literacy, new transport models, labor inclusion, natural resources preservation, and housing access. The Pinares area benefits greatly from the vast opportunities provided by its long-standing wood industry tradition. Several research and development initiatives are exploring the potential of forestry-related activities — such as LIFE Soria ForestAdapt, ZeroFires, and the International Model Forest Network — and there are already public support mechanisms in place, including Forest Management Plans and reductions in Social Security contributions in the province of Soria. Cultural and nature-based tourism also make a significant contribution to the local economy. UBU, FO2, and SODEBUR aim to support existing initiatives in these areas — such as House of the Wood, Cabaña Real de Carreteros, Que la Sierra Baile, the TurismoUrbion Association, and SMART VILLAGES — while continuing to develop new social economy projects around them. The following areas have been identified as priorities: cultural initiatives, digital literacy and services, new transportation models, labor inclusion, preservation and management of natural resources, and access to housing for migrants and neo-rurals.

ABOUT VULNERABLE GROUPS OF THE PILOT AREA

The main aim is to improve the living conditions of people in vulnerable situations, particularly the elderly, young people, and women, who face a significant lack of opportunities in the area. In this context, the ESIRA pilot in the Pinares area seeks to strengthen the local community, promote social cohesion and mutual support, enhance social services, and facilitate the creation of opportunities for entrepreneurship within social economy initiatives. The main needs identified through engagement with the local community include the lack of clear funding pathways, the complexity and rigidity of administrative procedures with public authorities, and difficulties in incorporating social, environmental, and community-strengthening dimensions into local initiatives.