Soil Health Living Labs for Addressing Desertification in the Mediterranean

Nemesis aims to tackle desertification through innovative, place-based solutions co-developed with local stakeholders. Centered around Living Labs (LLs), the project promotes co-creation, co-design, and collaborative problem solving, with a strong focus on multi-actor engagement, gender balance, and community empowerment. By fostering inclusive ecosystems that bring together science, land managers, civil society, and public authorities, Nemesis supports the development of practical solutions aligned with the goals of the EU Soil Mission. The project envisions harmonious co-existence with nature and drives a paradigm shift in addressing desertification and soil health challenges, ultimately fostering thriving and sustainable ecosystems.

The University of St. Gallen (HSG) is a core partner in Nemesis, leading the work package on "Social Innovation and Raising Awareness for Stakeholder Engagement" to foster inclusive, participatory, and socially responsive innovation in climate-smart land governance. HSG designs participatory future models using digital co-creation tools, supports the coordination of Living Labs with diverse stakeholders, and develops a comprehensive evaluation framework to guide the transformation of pilot sites into fully functional Learning Hubs. In doing so, HSG promotes transformation literacy through digital tools, training formats, and co-creative learning environments; contributes to the development of inclusive governance models; and integrates ethical and gender-sensitive perspectives throughout the innovation process.