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Rebloom

2025-1-PT02-KA152-YOU-0003013102025Mobility of young peoplefinalized
Countries: PT|RO|ES|DE|IT|LT · Grant: €52,898
Environment and climate changeGreen skills

Objectives

The devastating forest fire that struck the Serra da Estrela in August 2022 caused long-lasting environmental, social, and economic damage across the affected municipalities. It was estimated that more than 25,000 hectares of forest were destroyed, severely impacting local biodiversity and natural ecosystems. Economically, around 60% of tourism-related activities in the region experienced significant losses, and more than 40 agricultural farms were directly affected. Despite some recovery efforts, significant challenges persisted, particularly in reforestation, infrastructure rehabilitation, and the revitalisation of local communities. Bureaucratic barriers and insufficient financial support hindered the implementation of essential recovery initiatives outlined in the Serra da Estrela Revitalisation Plan. Local authorities continued to call for stronger action, increased funding, and fewer administrative obstacles to accelerate the recovery process. Statistical data revealed that, two years after the fire, only 35% of the affected areas had undergone reforestation interventions, while local tourism recorded a 55% decline in visitor numbers. In addition, local health services observed a 25% increase in cases of anxiety and post-traumatic stress, reflecting the deep social impact on communities. Applications submitted under the Revitalisation Plan faced difficulties, with only 35% of proposals approved, and many infrastructures remaining unrecovered. It was also estimated that more than 500 jobs were lost due to the destruction of local businesses and agricultural activities. In this context, the Erasmus+ Programme emerged as a strategic platform to enhance the active participation of young people in the regeneration of Serra da Estrela. The programme promoted youth mobility, intercultural learning, and the development of key competences to address social and environmental challenges. In line with Erasmus+ objectives, the project aimed to foster active citizenship, social inclusion, and sustainability, encouraging European cooperation in the recovery of territories affected by natural disasters. The project sought to address concrete challenges such as environmental degradation, economic recovery, and community resilience. It was estimated that approximately 70% of the burned areas remained without adequate intervention, while the local economy continued to suffer from the decline in visitors and business closures. At the social level, it became essential to support affected communities facing significant psychological and social challenges. Project Objectives: Promote environmental restoration: Engage participants in reforestation activities, ecosystem recovery, and environmental conservation to mitigate the effects of the fire; Foster sustainable development: Equip young people with knowledge and competences in sustainability, risk management, and volunteer engagement to support long-term regional recovery; Strengthen community engagement: Encourage youth-led initiatives that empower local communities, promote social inclusion, and enhance resilience; Stimulate active citizenship: Inspire young participants to become agents of change in their communities through intercultural exchange and collaborative problem-solving; Support local economies: Raise awareness of sustainable economic practices and involve participants in identifying innovative solutions to revitalise the regional economy; Encourage European cooperation: Establish networks of cooperation among European organisations, promoting the exchange of good practices and innovative solutions for the recovery of areas affected by natural disasters. By addressing these needs, the project acted as a catalyst for meaningful environmental recovery and social cohesion in Serra da Estrela. The 10-day exchange, supported by the Erasmus+ Programme, not only contributed to immediate restoration efforts but also promoted long-term sustainability and community empowerment. Participants completed the experience equipped with the competences, knowledge, and motivation to continue supporting recovery initiatives in their own communities and beyond borders, creating a lasting positive impact.

Project partners (6)