The Importance of Waste Management and Stakeholder Cooperation for 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 brought together young people from Hungary, Türkiye, Romania, Portugal, Latvia, and Iceland between 18–25 May 2025. The project aimed to promote sustainable lifestyles, raise environmental awareness, and encourage young people to take an active role in sustainable development processes. Through a variety of non-formal learning activities, participants gained international experience while developing solution-oriented approaches to environmental challenges.

Educational sessions on waste management provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of how waste can be managed responsibly without causing harm to the environment or human health. Discussions highlighted that sustainable waste management goes beyond collection and disposal, playing a crucial role in resource conservation and efficient resource use. Through presentations and interactive exchanges, participants explored how recycling, reuse, and waste reduction contribute to sustainable development and environmental protection.

Following the educational sessions, participants took part in a “Waste Recycling Puzzle” activity that allowed them to reinforce their newly acquired knowledge through practical learning. Working together to solve challenges related to different types of waste and recycling processes, participants experienced an engaging and interactive learning environment. The activity not only deepened their understanding of recycling but also strengthened their teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.

As part of a stakeholder visit, participants and project leaders had the opportunity to present the experiences and learning outcomes achieved throughout the project. Meetings with local stakeholders created a platform for exchanging ideas, gathering feedback, and discussing ways to improve sustainability initiatives at the community level. This experience helped participants better understand the value of stakeholder involvement and cooperation in achieving long-term environmental goals.

Reflection and evaluation activities encouraged participants to review the knowledge and experiences gained during the sessions and assess their personal learning progress. Through these activities, young people developed a deeper understanding of the critical role of waste management in building a sustainable future while strengthening their sense of environmental responsibility and generating ideas for positive change within their own communities.