The ReToy project is a youth-centered initiative that empowers young people to tackle waste mismanagement by transforming discarded materials into functional tools, toys, and artistic creations. By integrating environmental education, the project strengthens youth-driven sustainability efforts. Rather than seeing waste as a problem, ReToy encourages young people to see it as an opportunity, a resource that, when repurposed creatively, can lead to innovation, environmental impact, and community engagement. Participants will gain the knowledge and confidence to become sustainability ambassadors in their communities. Project Objectives Our initiative aims to accomplish several concrete and measurable outcomes: -Practical Sustainability Skills Through hands-on upcycling workshops, participants will transform at least 70% of collected waste into functional tools, toys, and artistic creations. They will learn practical sustainability techniques, including recycling processes, material repurposing, and eco-friendly design. Training sessions will introduce them to tools like 3D printers, glue guns, and crafting materials, allowing them to experiment and apply creative problem-solving in real-world scenarios. -Leadership and Initiative Participants will take an active role in planning and implementing project activities, including coordinating community events, managing workshops, and leading awareness campaigns. They will take part in peer mentoring, where experienced members support newcomers in navigating the project. -Teamwork and Collaboration Group-based upcycling challenges will encourage participants to work in teams, designing and building projects together. Through collaborative problem-solving and creative brainstorming, they will improve teamwork, adaptability, and communication skills. Participants will engage in cultural exchange by working with peers from different countries, strengthening intercultural cooperation. -Environmental Awareness and Action Workshops and discussion groups will provide participants with a deeper understanding of climate issues and sustainable living, addressing topics such as waste reduction, circular economy, and sustainable consumption habits. By engaging in practical environmental action, such as collecting and repurposing waste, they will directly contribute to reducing plastic pollution and landfill waste. -Community Engagement The project will include public exhibitions, open workshops, and toy donation events, where participants will share their upcycled creations with the community. By organizing “EcoVision Week” campaign, they will engage over 1,000 students, teachers, and local residents, spreading awareness and encouraging others to adopt sustainable habits. -Digital and Artistic Competencies Participants will be introduced to digital tools like design software, video editing, and social media storytelling, which will help them document and promote their work. By using technology to enhance their artistic projects and environmental campaigns, they will gain valuable digital literacy and media skills, essential for modern youth activism. -International Networking and Knowledge Exchange Partnering organizations from Slovakia, Romania, Croatia, Poland, Bulgaria, and Hungary will host biweekly virtual meetings where participants discuss project updates and share insights. A dedicated online resource hub will store guides, best practices, and learning materials, ensuring long-term access to knowledge beyond the project’s duration. -Employability and Career Readiness The project will equip participants with transferable skills in sustainability, design, teamwork, and problem-solving, making them more competitive in fields such as green industries, social entrepreneurship, and environmental advocacy. They will receive certificates recognizing their skills, which they can add to their portfolios and CVs.