The WE-ACT project aimed to raise awareness among students and the wider community about the vital role of wetlands in addressing climate change. Our main objectives were to enhance students’ understanding of wetland ecosystems and their services—such as biodiversity, freshwater, carbon storage, and food security. We also addressed water-related challenges like pollution and desalination. Equally important was the promotion of digital and language skills, active citizenship, and intercultural exchange. Special attention was given to students with fewer opportunities, ensuring inclusion and equity. The project’s structure—with hands-on, cooperative learning—also contributed to the prevention of early school leaving. Through real-world experiences and creative collaboration, students developed stronger engagement with learning and environmental values, reinforcing their role as active European citizens.
We applied for the WE-ACT project to respond to both local and European needs: the degradation of wetlands, the loss of biodiversity, and the effects of climate change on water resources. Each partner school faced unique regional challenges - such as water scarcity in island areas like Syros or freshwater pollution in central Europe - that made the theme relevant and urgent. At the same time, we identified a lack of student engagement with environmental issues, limited practical learning opportunities, and gaps in digital and English-language competences - especially among students from disadvantaged backgrounds. By promoting inclusion and accessibility, the project offered equal learning opportunities. Also, by joining forces across Belgium, Greece, Portugal, and Sweden, we addressed these needs through shared knowledge, hands-on learning, and intercultural cooperation. The project also responded to post-COVID-19 educational gaps by promoting active, blended, and inclusive learning models. We saw it as an opportunity to empower students and schools to act for a more sustainable Europe.