Leading by example

WHAT:

Crete's Culinary Sanctuaries (CCS) Educational Network in Greece is an award-winning “school without walls,” established in 1997 by Nikki Rose, a Greek-American journalist, seminar director, and pro chef. It helps provide tangible support to individuals working on action programs to share and protect their cultural-natural heritage. CCS is an all-local network of archaeologists, ecologists, organic farmers, heirloom seed savers, chefs and beekeepers that organizes accredited experiential learning programs to share culture, nature, organic agriculture, and cuisine. Over 3,000 students, teachers and journalists have attended the network’s programmes already. CCS has received awards from National Geographic, the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) as well as the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and is now working on a documentary highlighting Heritage Protectors in Crete.

WHERE:

Heraklion, Greece

WHO & HOW:

The isle of Crete, Greece is blessed with a fascinating history spanning over 4,000 years of amazing natural beauty, and healthy food. There is much to discover – and there is much to protect. Crete's cultural and natural resources are rapidly diminishing due to unsustainable agriculture and development. Many village-communities have been abandoned and their knowledge of sustainable living practices, organic farming and self-sufficiency is lost. These are not just local problems; they are witnessed around the world.

Through its vast range of programmes, the network aims at raising awareness of these issues, stimulating exchange of ideas, and creating local initiatives to support organic farming and other sustainable livelihoods.

The upcoming documentary “Heritage Protectors” is a continuation of CCS’ work to share crucial information with the global audience. The film covers history, biodiversity, toxicology, agroecology, young organic farmers, resilience, and hope. 22 people share their knowledge, initiatives, and dreams for a more resilient and sustainable society. Several people are globally renowned for their work, while others should be. CCS will also create an online platform with updates of heritage protectors in Crete and around the world.

MORE INFO
Have a look at the documentary’s trailer on the initiative’s website. Find the initiative on Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.
Email: nikkirose@cookingincrete.com
Photo credit: Nikki Rose