In March 2023, a group of motivated youth workers took part in the Erasmus+ project “Way to Go Against Climate Change” on Réunion Island, France. This international initiative brought together young professionals from different European countries to explore climate change as one of the biggest challenges of our time. The project focused on understanding the causes and effects of climate change, the responsibility of current generations, and how youth can lead the way in protecting the planet. With engaging workshops, group discussions, and real-life examples, the training aimed to raise awareness, inspire action, and build a sense of responsibility and cooperation across borders.
In Estonia, the effects of climate change are already noticeable. Winters are shorter and milder, while summers bring unpredictable heatwaves and heavy rainfall. These changes affect agriculture, forests, and daily life, especially in smaller communities. People in rural areas have seen traditional weather patterns disappear, and many are unsure how to adapt. There is also growing concern about pollution and loss of biodiversity. While Estonia has made progress in promoting green energy and digital solutions, there is still a gap when it comes to everyday climate awareness, especially among youth. Young people are interested in helping the environment but often lack the knowledge or tools to do so in a meaningful way. Raama Noorte Uhing Noorus Mtu had already been working with youth on topics like leadership and creativity, but climate education felt like the missing piece.
The training on Réunion Island offered a unique learning experience in a very special natural environment. Surrounded by the beauty of the island—its beaches, mountains, and rich biodiversity—the group quickly understood what is at stake when we talk about environmental protection. The training used non-formal education methods like energizers, games, storytelling, and simulations to make complex topics feel more accessible. Participants didn’t just listen to facts—they worked together to connect those facts to their own lives. It was also the first time many youth workers had the chance to talk deeply about intergenerational justice, which added a new layer of meaning to their work. They saw clearly how the decisions made today will affect the lives of future generations, and how youth must be included in these discussions.
One of the most inspiring parts of the training was the chance to meet and learn from local initiatives on Réunion Island. Youth workers visited community centers and spoke with local activists who were protecting their land and traditions while also fighting climate challenges. The island’s people showed how strong local identity and environmental care can go hand in hand. These stories helped the participants see that change does not need to come from large organizations—it can start in small communities, with simple actions and shared values.
Returning home to Estonia, the team at Raama Noorte Uhing Noorus Mtu felt full of new ideas. They decided to launch a new initiative called “Green Mindset Lab.” The goal was to bring young people together and give them the chance to explore climate issues using the same creative and interactive methods experienced during the training. The workshops were designed to be fun, open, and honest. They started with reflection games and story-sharing, followed by practical learning on topics like waste reduction, responsible consumption, and energy-saving habits. Each session was connected to real situations in Estonia, so that the youth could see the local impact of global climate change.
The “Green Mindset Lab” quickly became more than just a project. It turned into a space where young people could express their worries about the environment and turn those feelings into action. One group organized a clean-up day in a local forest, while another created short videos about reducing plastic at home. Some participants started talking with their schools about adding more environmental education to the curriculum. The NGO also partnered with local businesses and municipalities to promote youth-led climate activities, showing that cooperation between generations and sectors is both possible and effective.
The results of this initiative were easy to see and feel. Young participants became more active, more confident, and more hopeful about the future. They started to understand that every action, no matter how small, makes a difference. Parents and teachers noticed changes too—young people were bringing new ideas home and inspiring their families to reduce waste, save energy, and support local products. The community became more open to discussing climate topics, and some of the young leaders even presented their work at local council meetings. The training from Réunion Island had planted a seed that continued to grow in Estonia, reaching more people than expected.
This experience also helped the NGO see the importance of combining local and global learning. By staying connected with other youth workers from the Erasmus+ project, they continued to exchange ideas and best practices. Some of the methods learned on the island were adapted to fit the Estonian context, and others were shared with partner organizations abroad. The feeling of being part of a larger movement gave extra strength and motivation to everyone involved.
Looking ahead, the team at Raama Noorte Uhing Noorus Mtu believes that youth are the key to a more sustainable and fair world. They see how young people, when given space and support, can lead change in their schools, families, and towns. The story of “Way to Go Against Climate Change” is not only about one training—it is about building a culture where climate responsibility is part of daily life, where learning is active and personal, and where youth voices are truly valued. As challenges continue, so does the work. But with each new idea, each brave conversation, and each action taken, the future becomes a little greener and a lot more hopeful.