Key Action 2: ECOSystem

ECOSystem project is an innovative and ambitious endeavor funded by the Erasmus+ program, with the aim of empowering youth and fostering sustainable development across Europe.

Objective

The primary objective of ECOSystem is to empower young people to actively participate in sustainable development initiatives while simultaneously fostering a greater sense of community and interconnectedness. By engaging youth with eco-communities, the project seeks to inspire a passion for environmental stewardship and civic engagement.

Project Name: ECOSystem

Duration: 30 months (01.04.2025 – 30.09.2026)

Project Number: 2023-2-FR02-KA220-YOU-000179634

Partner organizations:

Greece – Hopeland

Italy – New Wellness Education

Belgium – Gaia Education

Spain – Back to the Roots

MAIN ACTIVITIES

ROUND 1

Kick-off Meeting

round 2

Eco-communities Online Portal

e-Handbook Development

ROUND 3

Enhancing eco-communities skills (Training Course)

Local learning-action processes

ROUND 4

Youth Exchange

Transformative Communities
(Online Seminar)

Final Evaluation Online Meeting

Eco-communities Online Portal: Our first objective is to identify eco-communities across partner countries. Through extensive research and collaboration with local partners, we compile a comprehensive database of eco-communities actively engaged in sustainable development initiatives. This information is then used to develop an online portal, serving as a centralized hub for networking, information sharing, and collaboration. The portal enables eco-communities and youth to connect, exchange ideas, and initiate joint projects, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of sustainability champions.

E-Handbook: In parallel, we will embark on the creation of an e-handbook titled “Eco-communities as Key Actors in Education for Sustainable Development.” Drawing upon the collective expertise of our partner organizations, the e-handbook will offer a wealth of resources, including case studies, best practices, and educational materials. It wil serve as a practical guide for educators, youth workers, and community leaders looking to integrate sustainability into their work. Through the e-handbook, we aim to inspire and empower individuals to take meaningful action towards a more sustainable future.

Training Course: Participants will embark on a transformative journey hosted by Catfarm Education and Back to the Roots, where they will be equipped with the essential tools and strategies to become effective agents of change within their communities. The two-phase training program is meticulously structured to maximize learning and practical application. In the initial phase, led by Catfarm Education, the focus will be on immersing participants in the realm of non-formal education methodologies and Education for Sustainable Development tools. In France, they will delve deep into innovative approaches and sustainable practices, laying the groundwork for impactful initiatives. Subsequently, the baton passes to Back to the Roots for the second phase, where participants will transition from theory to action. Encouraged to develop plans for youth events or activities within their communities, in Spain, they will receive personalized mentorship and additional training to ensure the successful execution of their projects. 

Local learning-action: Armed with newfound knowledge and resources, youth workers will be encouraged to implement local engagement activities in their communities. These activities may include workshops, community events, and outreach initiatives aimed at raising awareness and mobilizing support for sustainable development.

Youth Exchange: Hopeland will offer an invaluable opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of eco-communities, fostering connections and building bridges between youth and sustainable living. Hosted in the Hopeland community in Greece, this immersive experience will provide a platform for participants to explore and interact with various eco-communities within the region, amplifying their understanding of community spirit and environmental resilience. Throughout the Youth Exchange, participants will engage in hands-on activities, produce visual and media materials, and collaborate on the creation of an online promotional campaign.

Online Seminars: Catfarm Education and Gaia Education will host online seminars on topics related to sustainable development, featuring expert speakers, interactive workshops, and discussions. These seminars provide a platform for knowledge sharing, capacity building, and collaboration among stakeholders across Europe. The online seminar series will span over 6 months, with each seminar taking place every two weeks. In total, we plan to organize 12 seminars, offering participants a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of various aspects of sustainable development.