Roots of Sustainability: A Journey Toward a More Sustainable Future

The Erasmus+ KA152 Youth Exchange project “Roots of Sustainability” (Reference No: 2025-1-TR01-KA152-YOU-000299086) took place in Kastamonu, Türkiye, from 1 to 8 February 2026. Coordinated by Kastamonu Kalkınma Sağlık Çevre Eğitim ve Turizm Vakfı, the project brought together young participants from Türkiye, Georgia, Germany, Austria, and Denmark, with the participation of Persephone Environmental Development Association as a partner organization. The project provided an international learning experience focused on sustainability, environmental awareness, and intercultural exchange.

The “Share Your Journey” activity was designed to help participants get to know one another and establish a positive and trusting atmosphere within the group. Through interactive pair work, participants shared their personal stories, interests, hobbies, and experiences. They then introduced their partners to the wider group, strengthening their active listening skills, empathy, and self-confidence. This activity encouraged meaningful intercultural interaction and helped participants feel more comfortable communicating with their peers from different backgrounds.

The question-and-answer approach enabled participants to learn more about each other beyond basic introductions. By exploring different perspectives, experiences, and personal interests, they developed stronger communication skills and improved their ability to engage in meaningful conversations. The activity also encouraged critical thinking, mutual understanding, and respect, creating a strong foundation for teamwork and collaboration throughout the project.

The Erasmus+ and Youthpass information session provided participants with a deeper understanding of the program and its opportunities. The objectives and priorities of Erasmus+, the structure of youth exchanges, and the benefits of international mobility were explored in detail. Participants who had previously taken part in Erasmus+ projects shared their experiences, inspiring others through real-life examples. In addition, the Youthpass certificate and its eight key competences were introduced, helping participants better understand and recognize their own learning process.

A recycling-focused workshop increased participants’ awareness of environmental challenges and sustainable practices. Through discussions on the definition of recycling, recyclable materials, economic benefits, and practical examples, participants gained valuable knowledge about environmental responsibility. Working in international pairs, they developed creative recycling ideas and proposed innovative solutions for reducing waste. This activity enhanced their problem-solving abilities, creativity, teamwork skills, and understanding of how sustainability can be integrated into everyday life.

The evaluation session and cultural sharing activities further enriched the learning experience. Through online evaluation tools, participants reflected on the activities and learning outcomes, strengthening their self-assessment and analytical skills. The cultural workshop provided an opportunity for participants to present their languages, traditions, cuisine, history, and cultural heritage. By exploring the diversity of the participating countries, young people increased their intercultural awareness, developed respect for different cultures, and built meaningful international friendships that will extend beyond the duration of the project.