17/04/2026
From April 7 to 16, 2026, the international youth exchange “Green World” took place, organized by the “Focus – European Center for Development” Association under the Erasmus+ Programme. The initiative brought together 50 young participants from 10 European countries – Bulgaria, Turkiye, Greece, Romania, the Czech Republic, Croatia, Italy, Spain, France, and Portugal.
The project aimed to raise young people’s awareness of environmental issues and sustainable development, while encouraging their active involvement in environmental protection. Over the ten days, participants engaged in a variety of activities based on non-formal education, including interactive workshops, discussions, eco-initiatives, and practical sessions.
One of the most impressive activities was the creative recycling workshop, where participants produced various items from waste materials. They then went out into the city and exchanged their creations for different goods and services in markets, shops, and with local people, practically demonstrating the value of reuse and sustainable thinking.
As part of the project, participants also conducted interviews with members of the local community. They explored public attitudes toward environmental issues, levels of awareness, and whether local people actively recycle. The collected information provided real insight into local challenges and helped participants formulate concrete ideas for improvement.
A key focus of the programme was the exchange of good practices between the participating countries. Young people had the opportunity to present their experiences related to recycling, waste reduction, and sustainable lifestyles. Through working in international teams, they developed communication, cooperation, and intercultural understanding skills.
The “Green World” project also gave participants the opportunity to build new friendships and partnerships that will continue beyond the exchange. The network of young people and organizations created during the project lays the foundation for future joint initiatives in the field of environmental protection and youth work.
The organizers emphasized that such initiatives under the Erasmus+ Programme play a key role in developing active, responsible, and engaged young people.
With its successful implementation, “Green World” reinforced the importance of international youth exchanges as a powerful tool for education, inspiration, and real change towards a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
