In January 2025, youth workers from across Europe gathered on the lush island of Réunion for a unique Erasmus+ training course called “Youth Work in Environmental Education and Sustainable Development.” Surrounded by one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet, participants explored how to turn theory into action when it comes to environmental awareness and sustainability. The program was designed to help youth workers like those from the Romanian NGO Se Poate become stronger educators and leaders in eco-responsible youth work. With climate change accelerating and environmental challenges increasing, the training came at the right moment to inspire, educate, and connect those who are shaping the mindset of future generations.
In Romania, many communities face both environmental and social challenges. While the country has beautiful natural landscapes, including forests, rivers, and mountains, these areas are often affected by pollution, illegal logging, and lack of environmental education. In urban areas, youth are increasingly connected to digital spaces, and less to nature. Many young people feel distant from the natural world or unsure about how to make a difference. Even though the Romanian school system includes some environmental content, it often remains theoretical and disconnected from real life. In this context, youth workers play an important role in bridging the gap between knowledge and action. The situation before the training showed that there was a strong need for creative, community-based solutions that could engage young people in learning about sustainability in ways that feel practical and personal.
The training experience in Réunion Island was something special. Participants had the chance to not only study sustainability and environmental education but to live it every day. The local environment offered an ideal setting for learning about conservation, biodiversity, and climate resilience. Each day was full of interactive workshops, group discussions, and hands-on field activities. One of the most powerful moments was visiting a local eco-village where the community lived in harmony with nature, using solar energy, compost systems, and shared gardens. Seeing these practices in real life made the idea of sustainable living feel more achievable and real.
Another strong moment came during a group activity where participants mapped out the challenges youth face in digital spaces, such as cyberbullying, misinformation, and isolation. It became clear that sustainability today also means taking care of the digital environment. Safe online behavior, responsible media sharing, and critical thinking were seen as essential parts of youth education. The course showed how the topics of nature and technology are connected, and how youth workers must prepare young people to be responsible both online and offline.
After returning to Romania, the youth worker from Se Poate was inspired to create a new project named “EcoDigiz.” The idea was to mix environmental education with digital responsibility and bring it to schools and youth centers in local communities. The project started small, with workshops for teenagers aged 13–17, but quickly grew as more schools and families became interested. “EcoDigiz” taught young people about climate change, conservation, and sustainable habits, while also helping them understand how to stay safe and kind online. Activities included simulations about ecosystem health, debates about online behavior, and creative projects like making posters, short videos, and podcasts on sustainability topics.
The impact of “EcoDigiz” was quick and meaningful. Young people began to see the connection between their daily choices and the wider world. Many of them took steps to reduce plastic use, talk to their families about energy savings, or start school-wide recycling efforts. In one case, a group of students created a digital campaign about green transportation and convinced their school to support a weekly “bike to school” day. These changes were not only good for the environment, but also helped build confidence, teamwork, and a stronger sense of belonging among the youth involved.
The project also helped build connections between schools, NGOs, and local authorities. Teachers appreciated the new tools and methods, especially the balance between fun and learning. Parents supported the program because they saw their children becoming more aware and responsible. The success of “EcoDigiz” even led to new conversations about adding more sustainability topics into the local school curriculum. At the same time, the youth worker continued sharing updates and ideas with other participants from the Erasmus+ course, keeping the international network alive and active.
Looking ahead, the story of this experience shows that small seeds can grow into strong movements when there is passion, cooperation, and a clear vision. The Erasmus+ training in Réunion was more than just a course. It was a reminder that youth workers are not only educators but also changemakers. With the right knowledge and support, they can lead young people to think critically, act kindly, and care deeply about the world they live in.
Young people today face many challenges, but they also have incredible energy and creativity. When they are trusted, encouraged, and given the right tools, they can become leaders of change. Projects like “Youth Work in Environmental Education and Sustainable Development” show what is possible when learning happens through real experiences and meaningful connections. The vision for the future is clear: empowered communities, informed youth, and a planet that can breathe a little easier because of the actions taken today.