As part of the Youth Green Deal project, we organized an exciting treasure hunt in the city, featuring 15 engaging and fun tasks. Participants delved into the heart of the community, conducting interviews with locals, fostering connections and insights. Each team enjoyed fun and interactive activities related to the project’s environmental and climatic focus, offering participants a unique opportunity to understand the city’s practices and the locals’ attitude towards climate change. Additionally, there were tasks that specifically encouraged teamwork, camaraderie and the spirit of friendly competition. Here we get to know Ueis’s perspective of what he found out about the locals and their practices: “We first had to find 3 locals and ask them if they believed that climate change exists if they believed, were they afraid or they don't pay much attention to it. Then we had to ask them about their recycling practices. We also had to ask them if they had any environmental issues in their neighborhood. Lastly, we had to find green practices around the neighborhood and take a snapshot of them. We chatted with three locals about climate change. They all agreed it exists but didn’t seem too worried about it—they don’t really pay much attention. We asked three people if they recycle, and all of them do. Their levels of commitment varied a bit, though. When me and my group asked about local environmental problems, they didn’t express any problem”.
Secondly, we find out the perspective of Deren on the team building and fun activities: “The treasure hunt event provided our group with an entertaining and educational experience. After completing the local tasks, we chose a song together and recorded it, which strengthened our bond. Attempting to form a human pyramid led to some humorous moments, and we had a great time during this process. While choreographing a dance to a song in the street, we faced synchronization challenges, but this helped improve our communication skills. We also recreated emoji facial expressions for fun photos. Preparing a video message for other groups enhanced our team spirit. This experience raised awareness about climate change and highlighted the importance of creativity, collaboration, and the joy of learning together” The Youth Green Deal project's treasure hunt was a remarkable blend of education and entertainment, fostering community connections and environmental awareness. Participants like Ueis gained insights into local attitudes and practices regarding climate change, finding a general belief in its existence but a lack of concern, alongside varying recycling commitments.
On the other hand, Deren's experience highlighted the fun and bonding aspects of the event, with activities that enhanced teamwork and communication. Overall, the event successfully promoted creativity, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of environmental issues, all while ensuring participants had a memorable and enjoyable experience.