Take the ECO Side
Training Course
07.03.2025 – 15.03.2025
Side, Türkiye
Objectives
The climate crisis is growing increasingly urgent, and the constant stream of alarming news has left many young people feeling overwhelmed. While they recognize the urgency, they often struggle to see how they can contribute. Eco-projects have become repetitive, focusing on activities like clean-ups, tree planting, and workshops that no longer engage or inspire curiosity. Many feel their individual actions are too small to make a difference, leading to apathy. Additionally, extreme solutions, such as social movements or major lifestyle changes, can alienate young people who feel excluded if they can’t fully embrace them. Protests, like those involving damaged art for awareness, often create conflict rather than unity, yet many still view them as the only way to act.
Results
Throughout the week, participants explored the reasons behind declining enthusiasm for environmental activism—such as climate anxiety, repetition of activities, and polarizing narratives. Each partner organization facilitated a workshop presenting a unique and successful method they had implemented, creating a rich learning exchange. These sessions were complemented by structured networking, collaborative discussions, and a co-creation process that led to the development of a practical digital toolkit for youth workers.
The atmosphere was one of mutual learning, critical reflection, and innovation. Participants left with actionable strategies, stronger partnerships, and a renewed sense of motivation to involve young people meaningfully in sustainability efforts.
Our team at Euroactive Bulgaria is proud to have taken part in this initiative and to contribute to the creation of the toolkit, which will serve as a long-term resource for youth workers seeking to transform eco-activities into something truly engaging and impactful.
Supported by the Erasmus+ program, Take the Eco Side has not only expanded our methods, but also strengthened our belief that youth engagement in climate action can be reimagined—with empathy, creativity, and collaboration at the core.