We primarily wanted to increase young people’s knowledge and competences in ecology and energy saving, so that they would be better prepared for the energy crisis, climate change, and the upcoming energy transition. The project aimed to equip participants with practical skills for saving energy in households and beyond, and—thanks to its international format—to reach a broad audience in the partner countries. To achieve this, we planned, among others: workshops strengthening environmental competences, 5-day mobilities to partner countries, visits to energy-generation facilities and meetings with experts, the creation of a digital platform with interactive materials and an e-learning course, a social campaign promoting ecology and energy saving in Poland and the partner countries. Additionally, our goal was to ensure universal access to the materials (free of charge, in several languages, with adaptations), in order to strengthen non-formal education and reduce inequalities in access to environmental education.
We applied to implement the “Intensive Energy Saving Training” project because we observed a growing need to strengthen environmental competences and practical skills in rational energy use among young people (18–30) in the context of the energy crisis and the ongoing energy transition in the EU. The project responded to the need for a conscious response to climate change and for building habits that reduce energy consumption at home, at school/university, and in everyday life. It also addressed the need to better understand the role of renewable energy sources (RES) through direct contact with experts and study visits to energy installations. At the same time, the project addressed the need to harness the potential of digital tools in education (a platform, videos, games, and an e-learning course), ensuring that the materials were easily accessible, sustainable, and scalable across different countries. Inclusiveness was also a key element: free access to activities and resources, along with an inclusive approach for people with fewer opportunities. Thanks to the international partnership, the project enabled the exchange of good practices and joint youth activities in four countries, supporting Erasmus+ priorities.