From June 23rd to July 1st, 2024, 3 young people from Austria participated in a transnational exchange in Ankara and Polatlı, Turkey involving together 18 youngsters as part of the Green Up Development project.
The topic of the transnational exchange for Sustainable development and over the course of 7 days, young people from Austria, Lithuania, Croatia, Serbia, North Macedonia and Turkey participated in interactive workshops, debates and practical sessions teaching them more about sustainable practices and how they can individually have positive impact on the environment.
Transnational exchange Overview
Our project focused on raising awareness about crucial environmental issues such as pollution, climate change, recycling, and sustainable development. During the 7-day exchange, trainers provided participants with tools, methods, and good practices for sustainable consumption, production, and income generation. Topics covered included sustainable development goals, circular economy, composting, and green cleaning products. The team visited a wildlife collective to produce their own products (noodles, jam, molasses, etc.) and to closely observe a good practice.
Objectives
- Enhance understanding of the key competencies in sustainable development.
- Foster critical thinking about environmental challenges and sustainable solutions.
- Equip participants with tools and methods for effective environmental action.
- Promote teamwork and collaboration among participants to support community-based initiatives.
- Inspire a commitment to continuous learning and advocacy in sustainable practices.
- To inspire participants to advocate for sustainable living and environmental stewardship within their societies.
What Participants Gained:
- Knowledge and skills in sustainable development practices. Practical experience in sustainable living techniques, from crafting non-toxic cleaning products to implementing permaculture principles. These skills empowered them to make tangible changes in their personal life and community.
- Opportunities for multicultural exchange and community building;
- Leadership training and hands-on experience in environmental advocacy;
- Opportunity to visit another country and explore its sustainability practice;
- Networking opportunities with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds from six different countries;
- Learning how to write a project proposal in a later stage and implement follow-up activities in their community;
- Funding for their idea for a local activity that will tackle one of the environmental issues covered by the project;
What will follow now?
After completing the training, participants will be tasked with delivering a series of multiplication activities in their local communities, involving other community members (neighbours, young or old, friends, relatives) and other interested parties. For these activities, each participant, having assumed the role of a “multiplier,” will receive a small but sufficient grant based on the proposal they submitted to help cover the activity’s logistical and administrative costs. This way, their newly acquired knowledge and skills on Sustainable Development can be put to good use, allowing youngsters to take action into their own hands and contribute to their communities.
