ERASMUS+, Key action 1: training course
Please read the info-pack.
Hosting organisation: Europe in Your Hand
Training Course
ECO versus WASTE
17th November – 25th November 2024
Bansko, Bulgaria
Information regarding the Training Course
What is the main goal of the project?
The project „ ECO versus WASTE” promotes collaboration, exchange of know-how, skills and good practices between people working with youth and youth organizations in the context of the environment. The Training Course aims at introducing young people to environmental issues, to improve the environmental and entrepreneurial competences and leadership skills of young people in the field of ecology and to encourage them to apply sustainable practices in their daily life and work, thus helping to the protection of the environment and nature. Implementing the exchange will help build new and innovative ideas for combating climate change, build European environmental awareness through the implementation of various eco-initiatives, mental, physical and recreational activities, thus encouraging young people to apply sustainable practices in their everyday life and helping to protect the environment and nature.
The specific objectives of the exchange are: to acquire knowledge and skills to deal with environmental issues and combat climate change; developing young people’s leadership skills such as innovative thinking, entrepreneurial skills, intercultural competences, environmental awareness and social interactions; creating preconditions for active debate in the field of ecology and environmental protection and promoting solidarity and cooperation between young people from different countries; exchange of good eco practices and enhanced cooperation between partner organizations; development of innovative ideas and initiatives for active youth participation in combating climate change and environmental protection; promoting environmental and social entrepreneurship and smart solutions to tackle climate change.
Who will participate?
Participants & Partner Organizations
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| Bulgaria | |
| Czechia | |
| Italy | |
| Lithuania | |
| North Macedonia | |
| Serbia |
When will the project take place?
Participants’ Arrival day: 17rd of November 2024 in Sofia
Start of the program: 17rd of November 2024
End of the program: 25th of November 2024
Departure day: 25st of November 2024 back to Sofia
Project report:
Добър ден!
Greetings from one of the most famous ski resorts in the Balkans — Bansko, Bulgaria. We, participants of the ECOvsWaste training course held from November 17 to 25, had an unforgettable experience and gained valuable knowledge. The Czech team consisted of two members, and alongside us, representatives from three other countries joined the course: two participants from Italy, two from Lithuania, and eight from North Macedonia.
The course was incredibly insightful and it also enriched our understanding of environmental issues. In just one week, we explored essential topics such as ecological footprints, Earth Overshoot Day, and greenwashing. We discussed the environmental challenges faced by our countries, shared experiences, and developed specific goals and plans to start making a positive impact on the planet upon returning home.
In addition to gaining knowledge, the course helped us develop our soft skills, improve communication with people from different countries, learn about their cultures and traditions, and share our own. This intercultural exchange was a vital part of the program.
Special thanks to the organizers, Jafar and Georgi, who created not only an educational but also a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Thanks to them, we had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in Bulgarian culture. We visited the center of Sofia and admired one of its iconic landmarks — the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. We strolled through the narrow streets of Bansko, enjoyed the serenity and grandeur of the Rila Monastery, and relaxed in the local thermal springs. This country captivated us with its culture, warmth, and hospitality, and we are certain that we will return again!
The course also addressed significant social issues. One of the key activities was the “Limit 20” game, focusing on discrimination and corruption, which are often intertwined with environmental challenges. This exercise was a real challenge for our team, but we successfully overcame it, learning to assert personal boundaries and stand up against injustice.
We are grateful for the opportunity to be part of this project and for the contribution it made to our personal growth, professional skills, and awareness of global issues. Now we have new knowledge, ideas, and the motivation to make the world a better place!
Kateryna K.
