Making commerce accessible is worthwhile. Not only from a civil point of view, but also from an economic one . This is the message at the heart of the press conference held today at the headquarters of Confcommercio Sud Sardegna to present “#Io Rampo”, a project designed to break down architectural barriers in commercial premises and make them more welcoming for people with disabilities.
Data in hand, 80% of the activities in Southern Sardinia present structural obstacles that make access difficult, if not impossible, for those with motor difficulties.
A condition that excludes a significant segment of the population from participating in social and economic life, but which also limits the market potential of local businesses.
"Commerce risks becoming invisible for those who cannot physically access it," explained Matteo Achenza, president of the Young Entrepreneurs of Confcommercio Sud Sardegna. "With Io Rampo we offer a simple and concrete solution: mobile ramps, approved and customizable, which can be installed in front of the entrances after a quick technical inspection."
The initiative, already successfully tested in Northern Sardinia, aims to build a network of accessible businesses, reported on an online portal and also promoted from a tourist point of view .
In Europe, recalls Emanuele Frongia, president of Fipe Sud Sardegna, «there are over 127 million people who plan their holidays based on accessibility levels. We are not just talking about ramps, but also about information, reception and signage: a huge opportunity for our territory».
The project will be supported by an agreement reserved for Confcommercio members, who will be able to join at favorable conditions.
But beyond the economic value, “Io Rampo” is also a battle for rights. «Laws on accessibility exist, but they are ineffective if they do not provide sanctions or real incentives», denounced Alfio Uda, president of the association SardegnAccessibile.
«In many central areas, even in Via Roma, a citizen in a wheelchair is forced to give up on purchasing or turn to online shopping out of necessity, not by choice».
