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Eco Harmony: Play, Move, Connect

2024-3-DE04-KA152-YOU-0002876722024Mobility of young peopleongoing
Countries: DE|PT|MK|FR|ES|BG · Grant: €54,312
Environment and climate changeGreen skillsPhysical and mental health, well-being

Objectives

"Eco Harmony: Play, Move, Connect" sought to bridge the growing gap between young people and the natural environment, reintroducing youth to the benefits of nature through easygoing sports and physical activities - transforming them from disconnected, sedentary individuals into active, eco-conscious, and environmentally responsible citizens. The project took place at KulturHaus in Osterholz-Scharmbeck, Germany, an eco-friendly venue surrounded by nature, offering both indoor and outdoor spaces that perfectly embodied the project's core philosophy of blending physical well-being with environmental responsibility. This setting provided the perfect backdrop for young people from North Macedonia, Bulgaria, France, Spain, Portugal, and Germany to explore how sports and movement could serve as a powerful gateway to environmental stewardship, intercultural connection, and personal growth. With young people in urban settings increasingly disconnected from nature, and sedentary lifestyles contributing to rising rates of obesity, stress, and anxiety, the need for this project was clear. Research (The Benefits of Natural Environments for Physical Activity; Benefits of Outdoor Sports for Society. A Systematic Literature Review and Reflections on Evidence; Physical Activity and Sports - Real Health Benefits: A Review with Insight into the Public Health of Sweden) has shown that physical activity in natural environments - often referred to as "green exercise" - delivers significant psychological and physiological benefits that surpass those of indoor exercise. This project reconnected young people with nature through inclusive, cooperative sports, helping them improve their physical health, reduce stress, and develop a deeper appreciation for the environment. With environmental challenges threatening natural spaces across Europe, participants also gained the awareness and tools to become advocates for eco-friendly practices in their own communities. Through teamwork and shared responsibility, the project promoted social inclusion, bringing together 48 young people aged 18 to 30 from diverse backgrounds - facing economic, geographical, and social barriers - to collaborate, learn, and grow together. To address these needs, the project aimed to: - To increase participants' physical activity in a way that strengthened their connection with nature. -To raise awareness of the environmental challenges facing natural spaces and inspire eco-conscious behavior. -To promote social inclusion through cooperative sports activities that encouraged teamwork and shared responsibility for nature. -To support the personal development of participants by helping them understand the long-term health benefits of both physical activity and environmental engagement. Equipped with practical skills in sustainable living, eco-conscious sports practices, and intercultural collaboration, participants left the project as active advocates for environmental sustainability, ready to inspire their peers and communities to embrace a healthier, greener way of life.

Project partners (6)