The Value of Forests and Conservation Approaches Explored in the Young Guardians of Forest and Nature Project

The Erasmus+ Mobility of Youth Workers project Young Guardians of Forest and Nature (Project No. 2024-1-TR01-KA153-YOU-000217026) is taking place in Ankara, Türkiye, from 21 to 28 February 2025 under the coordination of the Chamber of Forest Engineers of the Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects (TMMOB). The project brings together the Chamber of Forest Engineers of TMMOB, KUFF Sports and Education Club, Green Behavior Youth Organization, Delta Environmental Association VšĮ, Asociația Universul Adolescenților, and Verein für Gemeinwesenarbeit und Minderheitenintegration. Participants have gathered to exchange good practices in forest and nature conservation and to strengthen environmental awareness within youth work.

The sessions explored in depth the essential functions of forests, including oxygen production, the maintenance of biodiversity, the prevention of soil erosion, climate regulation, and the creation of economic value. As a result, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the vital role that healthy forest ecosystems play for both human well-being and the natural environment.

The programme also addressed current threats to forests and natural habitats, such as unsustainable forestry practices, climate change, wildfires, habitat fragmentation, invasive species, and air pollution. Through presentations and interactive discussions, participants drew upon international experiences and developed fresh perspectives on how to tackle these challenges.

Subsequent workshops introduced sustainable approaches to forest and nature conservation. Particular emphasis was placed on stakeholder engagement, long-term policymaking, and integrated management practices as the cornerstones of effective conservation strategies.

A debate on the relationship between economic development and the protection of natural resources encouraged participants to consider diverse viewpoints and to devise balanced, sustainable solutions.

The programme acquired a creative dimension through the theatrical activity entitled Do Not Touch My Forest. By transforming their newly acquired knowledge into artistic expression, participants generated ideas for raising public awareness and took concrete steps towards bringing environmental messages to a wider audience.