Strengthening Environmental Awareness Through Food Sustainability and Composting Practices

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 brought together young people from Hungary, Türkiye, Romania, Portugal, Latvia, and Iceland between 18–25 May 2025. The project aimed to promote sustainable lifestyles, protect natural resources, and raise environmental awareness among young people. Through non-formal learning methods, participants explored sustainability from different perspectives while discovering practical approaches that can be applied in their daily lives.

Sessions dedicated to food consumption and sustainability examined the environmental impact of modern food systems and highlighted the importance of responsible consumer choices. Topics such as water use, energy consumption, biodiversity conservation, and food waste reduction were explored through interactive discussions. Participants gained a deeper understanding of how individual dietary and consumption habits can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Workshops focused on sustainable food systems encouraged participants to develop solutions that support responsible food consumption and production. Different national approaches and practices were compared, allowing participants to exchange ideas on local production, organic farming, food security, and the fair distribution of resources. These activities enhanced both research skills and awareness of the challenges and opportunities related to sustainable food systems.

A hands-on composting activity provided participants with practical experience in transforming organic waste into natural fertilizer. Using fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and other biodegradable materials, participants explored each stage of the composting process. The activity demonstrated how organic waste can be reused effectively, reducing waste generation while supporting more efficient use of natural resources. This experience significantly increased awareness of circular economy principles and sustainable waste management practices.

An intercultural evening created an opportunity for participants to share traditional music, dances, and local specialties from their countries. Celebrating cultural diversity strengthened communication among participants while fostering mutual understanding and solidarity. Reflection and evaluation activities allowed everyone to review their learning experiences and exchange insights gained throughout the sessions, further reinforcing the project’s sustainability objectives.