Our goal was for students to deepen their understanding of climate change—its causes, its consequences, and the urgency of the issue. We aimed to broaden their knowledge of European values, particularly in relation to the fight against climate change, helping them grasp both the rationale behind and the means of addressing the crisis. We aspired to cultivate a positive mindset and a heightened sensitivity in our students toward the environmental challenges we face, both as a nation and as Europeans. Furthermore, we wanted them to carry this knowledge back to their own communities, becoming agents of change within their families and local environments by promoting environmentally conscious habits and encouraging proactive behavior. We also intended to introduce them to key initiatives such as the Green Deal, the Climate Pact, and the concept of sustainability, while raising awareness about climate ambassadors and the roles individuals can play in these efforts. Ultimately, we hoped to inspire them to become advocates for environmental action and to open their minds to the wider world by participating in both local and international activities, gaining valuable experience and a global outlook.
This project was developed collaboratively by the partner schools in response to a number of identified needs. Firstly, we sought to raise awareness about climate issues and emphasize the gravity of the situation. We wanted students to understand the crucial role that society plays in addressing these challenges and to recognize that collective action is essential in the fight against climate change. Secondly, as our students come from economically disadvantaged rural areas, we aimed to ensure they could benefit from the opportunities provided by the Erasmus+ programme. Through this initiative, we intended to foster an understanding of European values and introduce the European Climate Pact, bringing its principles to rural communities that are often underrepresented in such discussions. Additionally, we recognised the importance of strengthening our local communities by offering enriching cultural and social experiences. Lastly, we aspired to broaden the participants’ perspectives by fostering collaboration with peers from other European countries through both local and transnational activities.