The project aims to foster individual wellbeing and environmental awareness among young people in line with their prioritisations through community initiatives. 

 

The project took place in Vienna, Austria, from 2 to 7 August and involved 40 youth participants from Latvia 🇱🇻, Austria 🇦🇹, Croatia 🇭🇷, Greece 🇬🇷, Hungary 🇭🇺, Czech Republic 🇨🇿, Poland 🇵🇱 and Romania 🇷🇴.

 

Climate anxiety is currently one of the most pressing problems affecting us as young people. At the same time, as young people we see protecting the environment and fighting climate change (34%) as our top priorities in the latest Eurobarometer on Youth report. Both the climate prioritization and climate anxiety underline the importance of increasing efforts for environmental and sustainability issues and addressing them through innovative and practical approaches that bring solutions, instead of amplifying the problem or increasing the hype. There is also mounting evidence that our relationship with the environment profoundly influences both our physical and mental health. In light of this, there has been a growing recognition of nature-based solutions as effective responses to a variety of social, environmental, and economic challenges. Therefore, our initiative, 'Nurturing Earth and Wellbeing,' marks the commencement of a series of youth exchange projects that address environmental concerns along with pertinent social, economic, and global issues. This first phase is dedicated to enriching young people's knowledge and skills in sustainability, food, nutrition, and mental health. Our project's mission is to facilitate a shift from large-scale, single-crop farming to smaller, community-based agricultural practices that are integrated within urban areas, thereby reducing overall carbon emissions. We aim to promote the development of ecologically harmonious cities populated by active, informed citizens who contribute to both personal and environmental health by consuming locally sourced, nutritious foods. This initiative seeks to enhance connections to the earth and overall wellbeing, cultivating an appreciation for restorative urban agriculture and its manifold benefits for mental health, society, communities, and both the local and global environment. Our approach combines nature-based practices with mindfulness, psychological insights, and reconnection tools to achieve these objectives. 
 

The project aims and objectives:

• Reestablishing a connection with nature to cultivate joy and grounding, enhancing awareness of self-regulation techniques.

• Building a sense of community that enables participants to contribute meaningfully to significant projects, promoting reconnection with nature.

• Creating a forum for participants to express their environmental concerns and uncertainties, fostering constructive dialogue and practical solutions.

• Introducing practical and actionable tools that participants can implement post-project, emphasising process-based and solution-focused strategies.

• Supporting the advancement of crucial developmental aspects in young people, such as self-confidence and authenticity.

 

Project activity schedule:

Day 1 - Kicking off our Youth Exchange with a warm welcome and some team-building activities! We were getting to know each other, setting our goals, and preparing for the exciting journey ahead. We learned more about youth pass, non-formal education methods and ways of working and learning in the nature. Participants shared more about their countries in the Intercultural night.

 

Day 2 was all about the environment and learning from each other! Each country group delivered insightful presentations on various climate challenges, highlighting the vital connection between climate and wellbeing. We explored eco-anxiety and discovered how community gardens can positively impact both the environment and mental health. These discussions helped us build common ground and inspired us to take meaningful action for a sustainable future.

 

Day 3 goal was to reflect on how nature shapes our wellbeing. We worked on self-expression and appreciation, and explored trust building exercises. A day to breathe, reflect, and reconnect with nature.

 

Day 4 journey took us on a study visit where we explored how urban spaces can go green! We discovered ways cities can integrate nature into urban environments. Afterward, we’ll dive into our wellbeing with an Anxiety Party, where we share, connect, and let go of our worries together. It’s all about learning, bonding, and creating a safe space for everyone.

 

Day 5 - A study visit to the Aspiring Smart City, city integrates smart technology, renewable energy, and resident participation to test and implement innovative urban solutions. From energy-efficient buildings to smart infrastructure, Aspern Seestadt is leading the way in creating climate-friendly and livable urban environments. In the afternoon, we traded the cityscape for the serene mountains, reconnecting with nature and reflecting on the balance between urban life and the natural world, challenging ourselves to be with and in nature. A perfect blend of innovation and tranquility!

 

Day 6 - As our journey nears its end, we're focusing on personal goals and reflecting on our experiences, followed by showcasing our ideas in the SDGs Exhibition! We share our thoughts on sustainable development and get inspired by each other's creativity. With group feedback and final evaluations, we're wrapping up with a sense of accomplishment and new friendships. Time to celebrate all we've achieve!