The project Green way is my way (Project ID: 2022-1-DE04-KA152-YOU-000053893) brought together 42 young people and youth leaders from Germany, Turkey, Spain, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Poland in Málaga from 18 to 27 April 2023. Organised by Migrafrica gGmbH / VJAAD e.V., the initiative focused on promoting environmental awareness, sustainability, and intercultural exchange through non-formal education methods.
The central aim was to strengthen young people’s commitment to sustainable lifestyles and empower them to take action in their local communities. Through workshops, outdoor eco-activities, simulation games, and study visits, participants learned how individual behaviour connects to global ecological challenges. They explored concrete solutions for reducing their ecological footprint, experienced collaborative green practices, and developed campaigns to raise awareness among peers.
In addition to environmental education, the project fostered intercultural dialogue and solidarity. Participants worked in multinational teams, engaged in cultural evenings, and reflected together on how ecological and social inclusion are interconnected. The involvement of young people with fewer opportunities was a key element, ensuring diversity and equal access.
The youth exchange concluded with a final presentation and the awarding of Youthpass certificates, recognising the learning achievements of each participant. By combining environmental education with European cooperation, Green way is my way contributed to the Erasmus+ goals of sustainability, youth empowerment, and social participation.
Report
Green Way is My Way – Europe’s Youth Take the Lead on Sustainability
By our correspondent
Málaga, April 2023 – In the Andalusian spring sun, 42 young people from seven countries gathered to confront one of Europe’s most urgent challenges: how to live more sustainably in the face of climate change. The Erasmus+ youth exchange “Green way is my way” united participants from Germany, Spain, Poland, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Turkey and Bulgaria, under the leadership of Migrafrica gGmbH / VJAAD e.V. from Cologne. For ten days, from 18 to 27 April, Málaga became a laboratory for green ideas and intercultural cooperation.
The project’s ambition went beyond theory. Participants immersed themselves in workshops on climate change, ecological footprints and sustainable consumption, but also translated knowledge into action. They staged a “Green City Scavenger Hunt” through Málaga, created eco-themed theatre plays, and organised group clean-up activities. In one session, participants simulated political negotiations on environmental policy, learning first-hand the complexity of balancing ecological necessity with social realities.
“We did not only talk about recycling – we lived it, we tested new methods and realised how small steps can create visible change,” said a participant from Cologne.
Intercultural dialogue was woven into every activity. Each evening, participants showcased their cultures, cooking national dishes, sharing traditions, and debating common environmental problems across Europe. In mixed-nationality teams, they explored how local contexts – from Bulgarian rural life to Spanish urban centres – shape attitudes towards sustainability.
The learning outcomes went far beyond environmental literacy. Youth gained confidence, strengthened their English skills, and developed resilience in group problem-solving. For seven young people with fewer opportunities – including migrants and those facing economic challenges – it was a first international experience, offering both inclusion and empowerment.
“I return home as a green activist,” remarked a young Macedonian participant, reflecting on the transformation of ideas into personal conviction.
The hosting organisation, Migrafrica, stressed the long-term impact. The project fostered partnerships among grassroots organisations across Europe, creating a durable network committed to sustainability and youth engagement. For the young participants, the final Youthpass certificate was more than a piece of paper – it symbolised recognition of learning, growth, and European solidarity.
At a time when disillusionment with politics often dominates headlines, “Green way is my way” demonstrated a different story: young Europeans eager to take responsibility, share knowledge, and act. From theatre stages to city streets, they showed that sustainability is not only about policies, but about people – and their willingness to build a greener future together.
A Note of Thanks from the Participants
We, the participants of the Erasmus+ youth exchange Green way is my way, would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Migrafrica. for making this unforgettable experience possible. Your dedication, organisation, and constant support created a safe and inspiring space where we could learn, share, and grow together.
We also extend our sincere thanks to the European Union and the Erasmus+ Programme for funding and supporting this project. Without this support, young people from so many different countries and backgrounds would not have had the opportunity to meet, exchange ideas, and work together for a greener and more sustainable Europe.
This project has given us knowledge, friendships, and motivation to make a difference in our local communities. We return home not only with new skills and memories, but with a shared responsibility to carry the spirit of Europe forward.
Thank you, Migrafrica. Thank you, European Union.
