Hold Your Breath: Young Environmental Leaders Gather in Milan to Tackle Air Pollution

In August 2025, representatives from Green Behavior Youth Organization joined young environmental leaders from Italy, Lithuania, Hungary, and Turkey for the Erasmus+ project “Hold Your Breath: Air Pollution (2025-1-IT03-KA153-YOU-000299023)” in Milan, Italy. The project took place from 9–15 August 2025 and focused on one of today’s most pressing environmental challenges — air pollution.

🌍 A Week of Learning, Sharing, and Action

Throughout the week, 40 youth workers aged 18–30 came together to deepen their understanding of air pollution, its sources, and its effects on both health and the environment. The sessions were designed to combine scientific learning, creativity, and leadership development.

Participants explored key environmental topics, including:

• The global impact of air pollution and climate change

• Health consequences of poor air quality

• Effective communication and awareness strategies

• Successful international examples of pollution reduction

Interactive workshops and discussions provided participants with tools to translate knowledge into community action. They also had the opportunity to explore Milan’s cultural and historical heritage, reinforcing the connection between sustainable living and appreciation for local environments.

💡 Empowering Future Leaders

Our Icelandic participants were particularly inspired by the emphasis on youth leadership and digital advocacy. During the social media workshop, they developed strategies to communicate environmental messages effectively and encourage behavior change through storytelling and online campaigns.

By the end of the project, all participants created personal and group action plans, outlining steps to raise awareness and reduce air pollution back home. These plans will guide their future initiatives and help spread sustainable practices throughout their communities.

🌱 A Lasting Impact

“Hold Your Breath” not only strengthened the participants’ environmental knowledge but also fostered a spirit of international cooperation. The friendships and networks built in Milan will serve as a foundation for future environmental collaborations across Europe.

Green Behavior Youth Organization is proud to have been part of this meaningful experience, empowering Icelandic youth to become advocates for a cleaner, healthier planet.