Through five case studies in five countries, we will compare different circumstances in protected areas and in undesignated areas, across different kinds of ownership (private, public, state-owned, collectively-managed). Several of the case studies include lower-lying rural areas that are adjacent to upland areas.
In each case, we will collaborate with authorities and stakeholders to: (a) enhance the conservation and management of upland cultural heritage, and; (b) promote the sustainable development of upland landscapes, for social and environment benefit both locally and more widely.
The case studies will underpin more general findings, and policy recommendations at the European level.

The consortium partners have established collaborative relationships. Cir-LASA (Italy) and GEODE (France) have been collaborating since the 1980s (Produit de terroir project; PAHF project). Prof Gerrard, Dr Dalglish and Dr Stagno are collaborating in the Negotiating Landscapes of Rights project, sponsored by Durham University’s Institute of Advanced Study. Prof. Gerrard, Prof. Civantos and Dr Dalglish are collaborating on the ANTIGONE project led by Dr Stagno. A key moment for the elaboration of the IRIS concept was the international meeting of the 5T.ERA Project, organised by the University of Genoa, where the partners had the opportunity to discuss the theoretical basis for IRIS.