From Natural Resources to Cultural Exchange: A Learning Journey Toward Sustainability

Green Behavior Youth Organization participated as a partner in the Erasmus+ Youth Exchange project “For the Better: Sustainability” (Reference No: 2024-3-HU01-KA152-YOU-000267485), which took place between 18–25 May 2025. Bringing together young people from Hungary, Türkiye, Romania, Portugal, Latvia, and Iceland, the project aimed to promote the protection of natural resources, encourage sustainable lifestyles, and raise environmental awareness among participants. Through non-formal learning methods, young people gained knowledge about sustainability while strengthening their skills in international cooperation, teamwork, and active citizenship.

Participants took part in the interactive educational game “Trees, People and Carbon Dioxide,” which explored environmental processes through experiential learning. Working in teams, they simulated the relationships between forests, carbon emissions, and climate change, helping them better understand the causes and consequences of environmental challenges. The activity combined movement, cooperation, and learning, creating an engaging atmosphere for all participants.

Workshops focused on the sustainability of natural resources encouraged participants to investigate different types of resources and present their findings through creative posters and group presentations. Discussions highlighted the importance of protecting water, soil, forests, and energy resources for future generations. These activities increased awareness of responsible resource management while also enhancing participants’ research and presentation skills.

Renewable energy workshops provided an opportunity to explore sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels. Participants designed and developed models inspired by wind turbines and solar panels, learning about the basic principles of clean energy production. The hands-on approach encouraged creativity, problem-solving, and a deeper understanding of renewable energy technologies and their role in building a more sustainable future.

A practical composting activity introduced participants to environmentally friendly ways of managing organic waste and producing natural fertilizer. Through this experience, they discovered how everyday waste can be transformed into a valuable resource and learned more about the principles of a circular economy. The intercultural evening created a space for participants to share traditions, food, music, and customs from their countries, strengthening intercultural understanding and enriching the overall learning experience of the project.