Digital Islands
Digital Solutions to Empower Island Communities
Project summary
Island regions face unique challenges because of where they are located. These challenges include limited transportation options, a narrow range of economic activities (usually focused on tourism), a heavy reliance on imports, and a lack of public services like health and education. Because of these issues, island regions often depend on help and resources from the mainland.
However, digital technology can offer new ways to address these challenges. Since digital solutions can be used from anywhere, they can help island regions become more self-sufficient and less dependent on the mainland.
Island regions can grow their economies by using digital technology in existing businesses and by attracting new digital-based activities. Digital tools can improve public services such as healthcare, education, transportation, and government. By implementing digital technology across these areas, island regions can overcome many of their unique challenges.
DIGITAL ISLANDS is a project involving island regions from across the European Union, including four outermost regions: Fryslân (Netherlands), Mallorca (Spain), Azores (Portugal), Madeira (Portugal), La Réunion (France), Mayotte (France), Åland (Finland), Cres (Croatia), and South Aegean Region (Greece).
The project's goal is to help island regions increase their use of digital practices and solutions in all parts of island life. The project will focus on three main areas:
- Using digital technology in business and industry
- Applying digital technology to public services and facilities
- Improving the quality of life on islands through digital practices
The partners will work with local groups on the islands to create and carry out specific digital projects that help the islands become more self-reliant DIGITAL ISLANDS.
What will this project change
The project aims to enhance self-reliance and resilience in European island regions through digital technology. By leveraging digital solutions, islands can diversify their economies, reducing their dependence on tourism and imports. This shift promotes economic growth by integrating digital technology into existing businesses and attracting new digital-based ventures.
The project also seeks to improve public services on islands, using digital tools for healthcare (e-health), education (e-learning), transportation (smart mobility), and governance (e-governance). This digital transition can lead to better access and quality of life for island residents.
With a collaborative approach involving multiple EU island regions, the project encourages sharing best practices and fostering community across these regions. By focusing on digital practices in various socio-economic areas, DIGITAL ISLANDS aims to create stronger, more self-supporting island communities.