Conditions and possibilities of using Baltic amber heritage in the development of territorial cooperation

Abstract

Baltic amber, also referred to as the “gold of the Baltic Sea”, is one of the most valuable fossil resins in the world. Due to its valuable properties, it has been the subject of international cooperation and exchange since ancient times. Then numerous trade routes were laid, which gradually turned into tourist attractions. Nowadays, amber contributes to the development of cities and regions where it is mined and processed. This gives them a competitive advantage, creates a positive image and stimulates territorial cooperation. The essence of this cooperation lies in the use of the socio-economic capital of interested parties connected by common interests. Representatives of the world of science, business and non-governmental organizations participate in this cooperation. An example of the effective use of amber and its heritage in activities that stimulate territorial development is Pomeranian Voivodeship with its capital in Gdańsk. The article analyses the activities in this area carried out since 1996 by two non-governmental organizations: the Agencja Rozwoju Regionalnego Foundation (Agency for Regional Development) and the association Academia Europa Nostra. The study was conducted using of secondary sources, including the resources of both organizations and the knowledge of the author, the initiator and coordinator of numerous initiatives related to the heritage of amber.