it is hard to imagine but our long-term project Green Youth Work Hubs is coming already to an end. Between workshops, clean-up activities and working on the E-Magazine, the time passed quite fast. In this edition we have a big interview with Gülsah Akin, who is working at East West East e.V. – the applicant and lead organisation of this project. Gülsah was the main coordinator and shares her experiences. We also have a report from Rayna (BG) who participated in a big debate in the European Parliament. Lika (GEO) presents a social company from Tbilisi. And Faisa (FI) wrote about Fast Fashion and overconsumption.
You can find the latest edition in the result section of this website.
From September 1st to September 3rd, Sofia, Bulgaria, bore witness to an inspiring and informative event that not only celebrated sustainability but also laid the foundation for a national network dedicated to innovative and inclusive urban development. The Sustainable Day, organized by Alternativi International, showcased a diverse range of activities, discussions, and presentations that left a profound impact on the attendees. The event was opened by the mayor of the region and attended also by policy makers and representatives of local authorities such as Sofia Municipality and Ministry of youth and sport.
During the 3 days, Alternativi team has been spreading awareness on sustainability issues and how the project Green Youth Works Hub has been tackling those issues. We were able to present the whole project and its activities, the website, the online newsletters and most importantly the Strategy Paper. On the second day of the event, there was a time for presentations and best practices sharing from different organizations involved in the topic-Alternativi team hosted a presentation where we focused on sharing our experience within the project and the topic sustainability, the Strategy paper and our experience as creators of a youth hub in Blagoevgrad, called Myastoto/The Place/ and how European programs can help such youth hubs to be more sustainable.
The Sustainable Day was made possible through the collaboration of several organizations, including BG BE Active, GRADOSKOP, and IMP-ACT. These organizations shared a common vision: to foster sustainable urban renewal, where citizens actively participate in reshaping their communities. Together, we have created an event that not only showcased best practices but also opened doors for collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Over the three-day event, participants enjoyed a rich variety of activities both indoors and outdoors. These included round table discussions, debates, workshops, presentations of successful practices, and engaging forums. The event catered to a broad audience, with over 600 attendees, including youth workers, social workers, NGO members, young enthusiasts interested in placemaking, sustainability, and green living, as well as social activists.
The concept behind “Placemaking Bulgaria” and the Sustainable Day revolves around the growing interest, both formal and informal, in Bulgaria, to create more sustainable and vibrant urban environments. It emphasizes the active involvement of citizens and seeks to spread global trends in innovative and inclusive approaches to building places where people not only reside but also thrive. This event was a milestone in bringing together organizations that are actively contributing to this transformative shift in urban development.
One of the key highlights of the event was the official launch of a national network of organizations committed to implementing innovative and inclusive urban development practices in Bulgaria focused on environmental sustainability. Named “Placemaking Connected: Bulgaria,” this network aims to unite organizations that share the common goal of making cities more liveable, sustainable, and engaging.
During the event, participants engaged in discussions on common urban and sustainability challenges and had the privilege of learning from international experts and policymakers. The event was a platform for creating a shared vision for the future of this emerging sector. Moreover, it was also an opportunity to connect activists and policy makers.
The Sustainable Day, part of Placemaking Bulgaria”-Connected organized by Alternativi International, stand as a testament to the growing commitment in Bulgaria towards creating sustainable, people-centric urban environments. Through this event, a national network of NGOs, and activists has been forged, laying the foundation for a brighter, more inclusive future in urban development. As participants departed from the Sustainable Day, they carried with them not only new insights but also a shared sense of purpose in making their cities better and greener places for all.
Although summer is the time for relaxing and taking a break from the rush hour of our everyday life, we were not lazy and created the third edition of the E-Magazine!
Our Climate Ambassador Martta wrote a great report about here multi-day hike in the wilderness of Lapland and provided even the photo for the cover.
We have also an interview with Paul Gaffron, the founder of the applicant organisation of this KA2 Project East West East e.V. He tells us about his long experience in youth work, the challenges he faces and the way he observed how young people change over the generations.
We also have a report by Lika about the Sustainable Day in Georgia. What this is and what happened. Check her article on page 15.
We all can follow the news about the war in Ukraine. Rayna had a closer look to the environmental impact of this war.
Amani and Jenny are coming from Finland and are used to recycling trash. In their article they present the Finnish way of waste management.
Now enjoy reading! You can download the latest issue in the “Results” Section of this website!
The Sustainable Day was a one-day festival dedicated to promoting sustainability, climate change awareness, recycling, and sustainable food industries that took place in Rustavi, Georgia on July 22, 2023.
The event aimed to inspire the community to adopt eco-friendly practices, educate attendees about environmental challenges, and empower them to take meaningful action. Sustainable Day brought together a diverse group of individuals and organizations committed to climate action. Notably, the event featured Climate Ambassadors who were selected through the “Green Youth Work Hubs” project. These young ambassadors, representing the future generation, demonstrated their dedication to environmental causes and their potential to inspire others in their community. Additionally, climate experts and stakeholders were present, adding invaluable insights and expertise to the discussions.
Festival featured activities for all ages. For children, engaging and interactive activities were designed to instill environmental consciousness from an early age. Youth and adults participated in panel discussions, interactive debates, and hands-on workshops to foster a deeper understanding of the issues at hand and encourage collaborative problem-solving.
The Sustainable Day culminated in an uplifting concert by a local ensemble called ‘’MIX’’. This musical performance served as a celebration of the collective efforts and commitment to sustainability showcased throughout the day. Local and international music brought together Georgian youngsters, as well as foreign guests.
More than ten workshops and activities were organized throughout the day, covering a wide range of sustainability-related topics. These workshops catered to different age groups, engaging children, youth, and adults alike. Some of the workshops included:
Workshop about Sustainable Food and Modern Food Industry
This workshop aimed to raise awareness about sustainable food practices and the impact of modern food industries on the environment. Facilitators and guests discussed the importance of supporting local and organic food sources, reducing food waste, and choosing eco-friendly packaging. They learned about the benefits of adopting plant-based diets and the role of regenerative agriculture in mitigating climate change. Discussions also focused on the importance of fair trade and ethical practices in the food industry.
Workshop about Local Everyday Plants and Their Benefits with Tea Ceremony:
Participants explored the local plants and their unknown benefits. Facilitators highlighted the medicinal, culinary, and environmental significance of these plants in the region. The workshop concluded with a tea ceremony, where attendees experienced firsthand the flavors of traditional local herbal teas.
Workshop about Recycling Single-Use Plastic Bags by Crocheting Them into Multiple-Use Shopping Bags:
In this creative workshop, guests learned practical ways to repurpose single-use plastic bags. Facilitators guided participants through the process of crocheting plastic bags into reusable shopping bags. This activity promoted the importance of upcycling, reducing plastic waste, and adopting eco-friendly alternatives.
Workshop about the Effect of War on Ukrainian and Georgian Environment:
This workshop shed light on the often-overlooked environmental consequences of armed conflicts. Facilitators and guests discussed the long-term impact of war on ecosystems, water resources, and biodiversity in both Ukraine and Georgia. The session emphasized the importance of peacebuilding and environmentally responsible approaches to post-conflict recovery.
Workshop about Making Hats and Baskets from Used Paper Cups:
Facilitators demonstrated how used paper cups could be transformed into stylish hats and practical baskets. This activity showcased the potential of reusing materials and inspired participants to rethink waste as a valuable resource.
“Wheel of Fortune” Activity: Answer Questions and Win Project Merchandise:
The “Wheel of Fortune” activity engaged guests in a fun and informative way. Participants spun a wheel and answered sustainability-related questions. Correct answers were rewarded with project merchandise. This interactive activity encouraged attendees to test their knowledge and deepen their understanding of sustainability concepts.
Quiz Game about Sustainability, Winners Got to Make Vegan Burgers Together:
The sustainability quiz game challenged participants’ knowledge on various environmental topics. They had to answer questions related to climate change, renewable energy, biodiversity, and waste reduction. Winners learned how to make delicious and environmentally friendly vegan burgers and taste them of course.
”Waste Basketball”: Guests Had to Sort the Waste in the Right Boxes, by Playing a Ball Game:
This interactive workshop combined sports and waste management education. Guests played a basketball-inspired game, aiming to shoot different waste items into the appropriate recycling boxes. The activity encouraged proper waste separations and the significance of responsible waste disposal.
Making Postcards from Leaves:
In this artistic workshop, participants discovered the beauty of nature-inspired creativity. Using fallen leaves and other natural materials, attendees crafted unique and environmentally friendly postcards. This was a good way to show appreciation to beautiful nature, while also showing sustainable alternatives to conventional paper-based products.
Sustainable day successfully brought together individuals, experts, and stakeholders to champion sustainability and climate action. Through interactive workshops and activities, the festival educated and empowered attendees to make informed decisions in their daily lives. The participation of Climate Ambassadors and the Green Youth Work Hubs project highlighted the significance of engaging the youth in shaping a sustainable future. The event not only raised awareness but also served as a powerful catalyst for driving positive change in the local community. As we move forward, it is essential to continue organizing such events to promote sustainable practices and create a more resilient and environmentally conscious society.
The sustainable day “Etnofest Goes Green” was about celebrating cultural diversity and sustainability.
The Sustainable Day “Etnofest goes green” was organised on 03.06.2023 in the vibrant district of Varissuo, Turku, was a remarkable celebration of cultural diversity and sustainability. Bringing together music, dance, food, various workshops to promote sustainability and a commitment to inclusivity. The day left an indelible mark on attendees and the community alike.
The sustainable day “Etnofest goes green” was filled with activities that increased people thinking about sustainability and a greener environment. Another main theme and one of the workshops was human rights and accessibility.
The goal of the Sustainable Day was exceeded. An estimated 250-300 young people, experts, teachers, youth workers and others attended the sustainable day.
The festival kicked off with a diverse lineup of musical performances, ranging from traditional tunes like Finnish punk rock trouper Pelle Miljoona to modern pop Sonya and rapper Bizi. The rhythmic beats and melodies resonated with attendees, creating an atmosphere of unity and joy. Dance performances added an enchanting visual element, showcasing the rich tapestry of cultural expressions from different parts of the world. Bright coloured dresses with amazing talent made the audience gasp their breath.
Alongside with music and dance performance several parallel workshops were conducted during the sustainable day and the implemented workshops were as follows: Cloth swap workshop, flower planting, sustainable food market, handicrafts with recyclable items, open space on recycling. Beside that “a bird feeder and bug hotel” workshop and a workshop on human rights were organised by the youth ambassadors of the Green youth work hubs project. The bird feeder and bug hotel -workshop was a unique example of sustainability. Materials for the crafting were recycled: old milk cartoons, pines from the forest and hay from the field. Recycling open space was a good example of sustainability. The messages of the workshop were: – if one doesn’t need an old toy, thing, or an old furniture anymore, rather than throw it to the bin just give it to someone or swap it. – Instead of buying new things from the shops, one can buy it from the second-hand shops, which can be cheaper and better for the environment.
Along with events super soap bubbles, temporary tattoos and chalk drawing were for the younger audience.
The workshops were conducted by the city of Turku, the library of Turku, Turun church association, Varissuo’s work and activities ry, Akseli kiinteistöpalvelut, Varissuo´s lämpö, Turku and Kaarina parish association, Catherine’s parish, Sondip ry and Together association.
How fast the previous two months past. But we were also quite active. We cleaned in the forest, implemented workshops at schools, participated in climate protests and of course we wrote also articles for our E-Magazine.
And now the 2nd edition of “Green4Youth” is online. It is even a bit thicker than the first edition and filled with articles, reports and interviews.
The title story is an interview with the youth workers Niclas Sandner from Germany. He talks about how he came to youth work, his cooking habits and why it is sometimes hard to be a youth worker. Do you have similar experiences?
The second interview is with the highschool principal Katrina Vartiainen from the Finnish town of Turku. The Finnish Climate Ambassadors asked her about the green orientation of the school and what she would like to improve.
We can’t mention all articles here but be assured – they are all worth reading. We would just like to mention one speciality: a Finnish-Bulgarian co-production! Some of the Bulgarian Climate Ambassadors went for a project to Finland, met the Finnish team and of course they sat down and wrote a story together. We are very proud of this spontaneous cooperation!
You can find the new edition in the “Results” Section of this Website. Enjoy reading the 2nd edition of “GREEN4YOUTH”!
We are so very proud that we can announce the publication of the first E-Magazine! It was an interesting process which started already in January when the Climate Ambassadors from Germany, Georgia, Bulgaria and Finland met for the first time in Kranenburg. During these cold and rainy days they received a media training and practiced how to write articles and how to conduct interviews.
During the first editorial board meetings they set deadlines, talked about topics and decided on a name for the whole E-Magazine: GREEN4YOUTH!
Now you can download and read the first edition with stories from all four participating countries!
A meeting on “Ecology, ecological problems and ways to solve them” was held in the 12th public school of Tbilisi.
After the volunteers from the youth association“Droni” completed the Erasmus+ Training Course in Kranenburg/Germany and became Climate Ambassadors, the representatives of Georgia decided to share the knowledge and experience they gained with the youth and held a comprehensive meeting as part of the follow-up activity.
The session was loaded with interesting activities and positive emotions, and most importantly, it was inclusive and transformative for young people.
During this session, the students learned more about: different types of ecological problems; modern ecological challenges; Recycling and Upcycling; ecological problems in different countries and the ways of fight them; Renewable energy; the Role of a citizens in fighting ecological problems and filled out the educational quiz about Ecological Footprint.
The Finnish Climate Ambassadors organised a Clean Up Event in Varissuo, Turku. They got support by their school mates and celaned their school grounds and recycled trash from the ground, bushes, and playing areas. This was not so easy because before cleaning the trash, they had to remove all the snow. In the upcoming E-Magazine we have an article with more info about it.
After all project partners formed their teams of young Climate Ambassadors we met for a Learn Teach and Training Activity (LTTA) 09.-16. January 2023 in Kranenburg/Germany.
The young people and the national coordinators got to know each other and learnt useful skills that will help them with their local activities during the upcoming months.
The national groups prepared presentations about the environmental situation in their countries and exchanged on environmental problems, civil society activities, trash management and governmental policies. We noticed that the situation and the environmental awareness can differ completely in our countries. The youngsters learnt what Upcycling means and discovered some methods that can be easily integrated in everyday life and be taught to other young people with local workshops.
During a media workshop the Climate Ambassadors learnt the basics about journalism: how to write a news article and what to pay attention to when planning an interview. They practised their journalistic skills by writing articles, reports and conducting interviews. This was followed by an editorial board meeting, during which the young people planned the first edition of the E-Magazine that will be published during the project course.
At the end of the week each national team set up Action Plans for local activities that will be implemented in the upcoming months. This week was a full success and laid ground for the realisation of the project on local level.
Green Youth Work Hubs 