Roots of Sustainability: Learning from Global Recycling Leaders

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 aimed to raise awareness of sustainability and environmental protection while strengthening participants’ knowledge and practical skills related to recycling and responsible waste management.

Participants started the activities with the energetic “The Sun Shines On...” game, which encouraged movement, interaction, and quick decision-making. By responding to different descriptions and changing places rapidly, participants improved their observation skills, concentration, and adaptability. The activity also helped strengthen group cohesion and created a positive atmosphere that encouraged active participation throughout the learning process.

The session titled “Leading Nations in Waste Recycling” introduced participants to some of the world’s most successful recycling systems and environmental policies. Through presentations and discussions, participants explored the practices of countries such as Germany, Austria, Switzerland, South Korea, and Wales, learning how innovative waste management strategies contribute to environmental sustainability. This activity broadened their understanding of global recycling efforts while enhancing their research, presentation, and public speaking skills. It also encouraged participants to reflect on how successful practices could be adapted and applied in their own communities.

During the hands-on recycling workshop, participants transformed the plantable seed paper they had previously created into eco-friendly invitation cards containing environmental messages and planting instructions. They also designed reusable cloth bags from old clothing materials, promoting sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic bags. Through these creative tasks, participants developed practical recycling skills, strengthened their innovative thinking abilities, and gained a deeper understanding of how sustainable practices can be integrated into everyday life. The workshop demonstrated how waste materials can be transformed into valuable and functional products through creativity and environmental responsibility.

Youthpass certificate activities, evaluation sessions, and cultural sharing workshops further enriched the learning experience. While completing their Youthpass reflections, participants assessed the knowledge, skills, and competences they had gained throughout the project, increasing their awareness of personal development and non-formal learning outcomes. Evaluation activities encouraged critical reflection and constructive feedback, while cultural presentations allowed participants to explore the traditions, languages, customs, and lifestyles of different countries. Together, these activities strengthened intercultural understanding, promoted mutual respect, and reinforced the project’s goals of sustainability, active citizenship, and international cooperation.