From March 1st to 2nd, 2025, ProVerzasca hosted a highly collaborative workshop in the picturesque village of Sonogno, Ticino, Switzerland, bringing together prominent stakeholders in the regional rustic wool sector. Participants included representatives from renowned organizations such as AlpTextyles and Woolshed, each contributing valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of alpine wool production. Over the course of two days, the group examined strategies to strengthen the local value chain, focusing on sustainable processing methods and potential cross-border synergies.

A pivotal element of the workshop was a comprehensive tour of ProVerzasca’s integrated supply chain. Attendees observed firsthand how locally sourced wool is handled from the initial washing phase—supported by the Woolti wool washing machinery—through processing and artisanal product creation. This step-by-step demonstration not only highlighted the efficiency of mini washing stations and small-scale production units but also showcased the potential for replicating similar models across the Alpine region.

Discussions during the event centered on practical approaches to wool recovery, highlighting the importance of localized resources in bolstering community-driven textile initiatives. Stakeholders examined shared challenges, such as securing sufficient raw materials and minimizing environmental impact, while also identifying opportunities for collective branding and product development. Through interactive sessions and networking activities, Swiss and Italian participants explored how to adapt these localized practices to their respective contexts, acknowledging both commonalities and regional distinctions.

By the workshop’s conclusion, attendees had established a more profound understanding of Sonogno’s dynamic wool ecosystem and generated actionable strategies to expand sustainable, interconnected wool processing networks across the Alpine region. The event served as a catalyst for ongoing dialogue, laying the groundwork for an even stronger, more resilient local wool industry.