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.
Green Youth Work Hubs 