The project's primary objective was to develop practical tools and strategies to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of youth mobility initiatives. The project recognized the critical importance of sustainability in international youth work, acknowledging that while these programs offer invaluable cultural exchange and learning opportunities, they often come with a considerable environmental cost, particularly in terms of travel-related emissions. By addressing this challenge, the project sought to ensure that the positive impact of international youth work could continue without compromising environmental responsibility.
Goals
"Greening International Youth Work" aimed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in youth programs by 40 percent, aligning with EU targets for 2030. It developed practical tools including an app, a manual, and a training curriculum to help youth workers mitigate environmental impact. The project sought to raise awareness about the climate impact of international youth work and create climate-neutral solutions for future programs. These goals directly support the European Green Deal's efforts to make European society and economy more sustainable.
Partners
- As the lead partner, Naturfreundejugend Deutschland (German Young Naturefriends) coordinated the project and provided expertise in sustainability and youth programs. They have a long-standing commitment to climate protection and sustainable living, as reflected in their 2007 mission statement.
- IYNF is a international network of youth organizations promoting sustainable development and environmental education. They contributed their international perspective and experience in coordinating youth programs across borders.
- GIAN-Gio (Italian Young Naturefriends) focuses on promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices among young people.
- ASAN (Senegalese Naturefriends) is an organization from Senegal that works on various social and environmental projects. Their involvement brought an important African perspective to the project, helping to ensure its global relevance.
- This Spanish partner organization Biodiversa is dedicated to biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability.
