The Importance of Sustainability and Youth Involvement

Climate change and ecological challenges are no longer distant issues; they are realities that affect every corner of the globe. For young people, understanding these challenges and learning how to respond is crucial for shaping a sustainable future. The Pew Research Center (2020) highlights that 70% of young individuals see climate change as a serious threat, while the World Economic Forum found that 91% of youth believe human activities contribute to climate change. This awareness needs to be matched with education and action to make meaningful change.

Why Should Young People Care?

Youth are at the forefront of the future, and their involvement in environmental issues is essential. Engaging in projects like "EcoAgents of Change" helps young people develop the knowledge and skills needed to advocate for sustainability and lead impactful initiatives. Research has shown that youth-driven projects can inspire communities and create lasting positive effects. By taking part, young people can transform their concerns into proactive measures that benefit both their local and global communities.

Impact Across Countries

Aruba faces rising temperatures and threats to its unique ecosystems, such as coral reefs. The 1.2°C temperature increase over the past century is a significant indicator of how climate change impacts smaller nations.

Romania, with its varied landscape, has seen increased incidents of extreme weather, including floods and heatwaves, which disrupt communities and local ecosystems.

Italy has been experiencing a rise in prolonged droughts and changing agricultural patterns, affecting its economy and daily life.

Poland contends with more frequent storms and changes in seasonal weather, which impact both urban areas and rural communities.

Germany is seeing changes in rainfall patterns and heatwaves that stress urban infrastructures and natural resources.

Belgium is not immune either, with rising sea levels posing a potential threat to its coastal regions and increasing pressure on urban areas to adapt.

Why This Project?

By addressing these global and local challenges, "EcoAgents of Change" seeks to equip young participants with the tools and knowledge to become active contributors to environmental solutions. The project not only highlights the importance of sustainability but fosters an understanding that each action, no matter how small, contributes to a larger, global effort toward a healthier planet.

We are seeking young individuals aged 18-23 years who are eager to take their first steps in international projects. We encourage those who may have limited prior experience in youth exchanges but have a strong passion for environmental issues and a commitment to personal and community growth. The ideal participant should be enthusiastic about learning, collaborating with peers, and motivated to carry out similar environmental and sustainability initiatives in their home communities after the project concludes.

Participant Commitments

Before the Project:

• Take part in the APV (Advanced Planning Visit) meeting, which will be held online and is expected to take place in 7-10 July 2025. This meeting will prepare participants for what to expect and provide an overview of their roles.

• Engage in pre-departure activities, including researching local and international environmental issues, preparing presentations, and participating in preparatory meetings.

• Commit to learning basic cultural and linguistic aspects to facilitate intercultural understanding.

• Develop personal goals that align with the objectives of the project to guide their participation.

• We aim to ensure inclusivity by encouraging the participation of at least 3 young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, providing them with the opportunity to grow, learn, and contribute to this impactful project. 

During the Project:

• Actively participate in workshops, discussions, and activities that foster hands-on learning and collaborative efforts.

• Join in daily reflection sessions to share experiences, insights, and feedback.

• Take part in cultural immersion activities, such as local visits and community interactions, to enrich their understanding of the host environment.

After the Project:

• Apply the skills and knowledge gained by leading community presentations and workshops in their local areas to promote environmental awareness.

• Participate in or initiate local environmental projects, such as tree planting or biodiversity monitoring, to put their new skills into practice.

• Stay connected with fellow participants through online platforms to share updates, experiences, and collaborate on future projects.

• Use media and social media channels to amplify the message of sustainability and the outcomes of the project.

• Reflect on the project experience through self-assessment and document their learning in tools like the Youthpass certificate, showcasing the competencies they developed.