With this project, we wanted to give adults in rural areas better access to future-oriented learning opportunities - especially in the fields of biodiversity, repair culture, circular economy and digital tools. Eco-Clubs were designed as open learning and meeting spaces where people could try things out together, share knowledge and gradually build more sustainable everyday routines. At the same time, we wanted to connect small local initiatives and enable European cooperation.Through exchange between Portugal, Spain and Germany, different ideas were tested, skills were strengthened and new ways of working emerged. Another goal was to show that rural communities can actively contribute to the green transition - provided they have suitable formats, support structures and inspiring examples. We also aimed to bring Erasmus+ more strongly into rural regions, reduce hesitation about participation, and promote a culture of lifelong learning. To ensure that other regions could benefit from these experiences, we developed a transferable model: a comprehensive Showcase Kit that demonstrates how Eco-Clubs can be started, communicated and further developed.
We applied for this project because in our rural regions there are very few places where adults can learn, meet and develop new ideas together - especially around topics that matter for the future: biodiversity, repair culture, circular economy and digital skills. Opportunities to get involved exist mainly in cities, while in rural areas people often lack both learning spaces and ways to contribute meaningfully to climate and resource protection. Many residents were motivated - they wanted to repair things, try out practical activities or start small community projects. What was missing were clear formats, guidance and a supportive local network. Rural initiatives are also rarely connected to European cooperation, which means they seldom see how similar challenges are tackled elsewhere - and promising ideas spread slowly. With RECA, we set out to change this. Eco-Clubs were designed as accessible, welcoming spaces where people can learn together, take action and build community. By connecting three rural regions and sharing our experiences, we developed a model that others can adapt - helping more communities start their own initiatives and take practical steps toward sustainability.