The “CONNECT: Self, Community, Planet” project is based on the need of young people to (re)discover their personal connection to nature and environment. Over 80% youth desire to spend more time in nature, but are restricted by busy schedules, inaccessible locations, urbanisation or other reasons. Encouraging young people to reconnect with nature is crucial because it fosters a deeper sense of environmental responsibility and creates an emotional bond with the environment. When youth are passive recipients of their environment—taking nature for granted or only interacting with it in superficial ways—they are less likely to develop a personal stake in its protection. This detachment can become a barrier to adopting sustainable habits and engaging in green movements, as it limits their understanding of the long-term impacts of environmental degradation on their own well-being and that of their community. Nature provides a vital space for reflection, mindfulness, inspiration, creativity, and emotional healing, which is especially important for young people in today's fast-paced, technology-driven world. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors improves mental health, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being (source: https://positivepsychology.com/positive-effects-of-nature/). Despite these advantages, many individuals often overlook or take for granted the profound impact that nature can have on their lives. Without this connection, youth are more likely miss out on the personal benefits of nature and, consequently, be less motivated to protect it. A passive relationship with the environment limits the emotional and cognitive development of environmental empathy, which is crucial for understanding the importance of sustainability. When young people regularly engage with nature—whether through hiking, gardening, or conservation activities—they develop a sense of responsibility and care for it. This emotional connection makes them more likely to adopt sustainable habits and advocate for environmental causes (sources: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/18/14/7498; https://friendsoftheearth.uk/nature/importance-nature;). Based on this research indicators and theories, the primary aim of this project is to nurture a deeper sense of environmental responsibility among youth and foster a genuine appreciation for the natural world. By encouraging a more mindful and ethical approach to sustainability, we aim to integrate these values into the core beliefs of young people. We seek to demonstrate how nature can play a pivotal role in personal development and self-care, and how adopting sustainable practices can become an inherent part of one’s values and daily life. Also we aspire to empower young people to become proactive advocates for environmental causes within their communities. By equipping them with the necessary knowledge and tools, we hope to inspire youth to be committed to protecting and cherishing the natural world, thus ensuring a sustainable and harmonious future for all. The specific objectives of the “CONNECT: Self, Community, Planet” project are: - to support youth in learning the value of nature in everyday human life - to encourage youth to implement more sustainable and environmentally-friendly habits in everyday life - to implement self care and mindfulness methods and techniques connected to nature and improve mental well-being - to assist youth in developing a deep understanding of human connection to nature and it’s reflection on personal well-being - to foster intercultural dialogue, understanding and inclusivity - to encourage youth to take part in more intercultural activities supported by Erasmus+ Programme and be more ready to get involved in local initiatives