In today's society, where urban areas experience a constant increase in traffic, noise, and concrete, rethinking mobility from a more sustainable perspective and recovering green spaces has become a collective necessity. Creating more pleasant, healthy, and sustainable environments is not just a matter of urban planning, but also a way to transform society itself. With the aim of placing these values at the center, the PlazaBizi project was born in Debagoiena.
The PlazaBizi initiative did not emerge from scratch; it originated from the Gizabidea Foundation. This foundation, within the framework of Debagoiena 2030, previously addressed various issues related to ecosocial transition, such as energy, inclusion, and food. The foundation focused on mobility and concluded that there was a desire for change in this area and that many agents were working independently. Subsequently, they learned about a grant call from the Kutxa Foundation that promoted sustainable mobility and the renaturalization of natural spaces, emphasizing collaboration as a fundamental pillar.
Various allies have joined the project, both local and external, and the Gizabidea Foundation has taken on the coordination. Currently, the alliance is composed of Arantzazulab, Arizmendi Ikastola, Arrasate Herri Eskola, Arrasateko Nagusien Kontseilua, Athlon, Besaide, Ciclogreen, Emun, Fagor, Gizabidea, Ikerlan, Kutxa Foundation, Maraka, Mondragon Goi Eskola Politeknikoa, Osarten, Tipik, and Txatxilipurdi. Furthermore, they have the support of the Arrasate City Council and the Debagoiena Commonwealth.
The PlazaBizi project found its area of action in the Arimazubi neighborhood of Arrasate. It was observed that a large number of cars circulated daily through this neighborhood, generating pollution, noise, and risk. Residents considered the situation chaotic and believed that change was necessary, so they welcomed the initiative. Through a participatory process, opinions were gathered, and priorities were established by the residents, although not all proposals could be implemented.
The main focuses of the project are the promotion of sustainable mobility and the renaturalization of green areas. Arimazubi has three green spaces: Santa Barbara, Olandixo, and the garden of the Mondragon Goi Eskola Politeknikoa. In these areas, especially in Santa Barbara, various initiatives have been launched, such as Santa Barbara piztu and Altxorbarbara, the latter being a game for children aged 5 to 10. Schools have also developed their own programs, such as Arizmendi's Naturan hezten sessions and Bedoña's Baso eskolak.
Regarding mobility, significant awareness-raising work is being done to change people's habits. The Mondragon Goi Eskola Politeknikoa has carried out a diagnosis on mobility, and awareness campaigns are also being conducted through the Ciclogreen application. The PlazaBizi project was created with a two-year duration and will conclude in December, but the goal is to plant seeds for the future and ensure the continuity of the themes by creating other committees and spaces.
