Change with Ecological Awareness: From Water Consumption to Global Responsibility

The Erasmus+ KA152 Youth Exchange project "Change with Ecological Awareness" (Project No. 2025-3-ES02-KA152-YOU-000368105) was held in Alcobendas, Spain, from 29 March to 4 April 2026, under the coordination of Asociación Green Eurosanse. Bringing together young participants from Spain, Azerbaijan, Hungary, Türkiye, and Estonia, the project created an international learning environment where participants explored environmental sustainability, ecological awareness, and responsible lifestyles through non-formal education activities while strengthening intercultural dialogue, active citizenship, and European cooperation.

As part of the project, participants took part in a series of interactive workshops and collaborative activities focusing on the sustainable use of water resources and individual environmental responsibility. Through non-formal education methods, young people explored how everyday decisions influence the environment and discovered the importance of adopting more sustainable consumption habits.

One of the central topics of the activities was the concept of virtual water and the water footprint. Participants investigated the hidden amount of water required to produce common products such as food, clothing, and energy, gaining a deeper understanding of how consumption patterns affect global water resources. These sessions encouraged participants to recognize that protecting water extends beyond reducing direct household use and includes making more environmentally conscious purchasing and lifestyle choices.

Participants also calculated their personal water footprints and reflected on the environmental impact of their daily routines. Through group discussions and interactive exercises, they compared different consumption habits, exchanged ideas, and identified practical strategies for reducing unnecessary water use. These activities strengthened both their environmental awareness and their sense of individual responsibility for protecting natural resources.

Another important component of the programme consisted of role-playing activities and debates addressing water management and global water challenges. By assuming the roles of farmers, environmental activists, policymakers, and consumers, participants examined the complex balance between economic development, environmental protection, and equitable access to water resources. The simulations fostered empathy, critical thinking, negotiation, teamwork, and collaborative problem-solving while encouraging participants to seek sustainable and inclusive solutions.

By the end of the activities, participants had developed a deeper understanding of the relationship between individual choices and global environmental challenges. The experience not only expanded their knowledge of sustainable water management but also inspired them to adopt more environmentally responsible behaviors and become active ambassadors for sustainability within their local communities.