As part of the Erasmus+ project, HER[AI]TAGE, we are slowly concluding the collection of stories and memories from our senior citizens about their coexistence with nature. Although we expected interesting conversations, we were not fully prepared for the depth and richness of knowledge that our interviewees revealed. Each conversation was not merely data collection but a unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in the world of old customs, forgotten practices, and deep respect for the environment.
The staff of Novi Sad Library, a project partner, conducting an on-site interview.
Listening to the stories about life along the Drava, Mura, and Danube rivers, we discovered a valuable treasury of what we today call traditional ecological knowledge. These are not just nostalgic memories. They are concrete, life lessons about sustainability and reading the signs of nature. Their stories revealed an approach to nature based on deep respect and consideration, showing how communities once aligned with natural cycles and resources. These stories, preserved in the memories of our elders, represent a valuable intangible cultural heritage that, unfortunately, is irreversibly disappearing over time.
The staff of Novi Sad Library, a project partner, conducting an on-site interview.
These conversations confirmed that the mission of the HER[AI]TAGE project goes beyond mere archiving. To bring this valuable knowledge closer to new generations, we asked ourselves a key question: How can we make these stories relevant and appealing in today’s digital age?
We found the answer in the innovative application of technology. We decided to harness the potential of generative artificial intelligence to breathe new life into these stories. As part of our project, we will transform the collected narratives into visually impressive AI illustrations and audio recordings, thus creating an interactive digital collection of stories. In this way, technology facilitates the transfer of knowledge between generations and encourages the development of ecological awareness and respect for nature among younger generations.
The interviewing process has confirmed the importance of our mission and strengthened our commitment to the HER[AI]TAGE project. Every story told has shown how important it is to preserve the voices of the past so they can become a guide for a greener and more sustainable future. Follow us on our journey as we prepare this valuable heritage for the digital world!
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or Agency for Mobility and EU Programmes (AMPEU). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
