Young Guardians of Forest-Scientific Exchange and Lasting Achievements

The Erasmus+ Mobility of Youth Workers project Young Guardians of Forest and Nature (Project No. 2024-1-TR01-KA153-YOU-000217026) was implemented in Ankara, Türkiye, from 21 to 28 February 2025 under the coordination of the Chamber of Forest Engineers of the Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects (TMMOB). The project brought together Czechia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Türkiye. Through this international partnership, participants worked to advance innovative approaches to forest and nature conservation while strengthening intercultural dialogue and professional cooperation in the field of youth work.

A comprehensive panel on forest and nature conservation provided an inspiring platform for exchange between participants, public authorities, and university scholars. Discussions addressed biodiversity conservation, the impacts of climate change and forest degradation, sustainable forestry practices, protected areas, ecosystem services, and the active involvement of local communities. Drawing upon these expert insights, participants refined their understanding of current environmental challenges and explored practical, solution-oriented strategies that can be adapted to their own local contexts.

The dissemination performance Do Not Touch My Forest transformed the knowledge and awareness gained throughout the project into an engaging artistic experience for the wider community. By combining creativity with advocacy, the performance enhanced the visibility of the Erasmus+ Programme and demonstrated the power of culture and the arts in communicating environmental messages. The subsequent intercultural gathering further enriched the experience, as participants shared traditions, music, cuisine, and everyday customs, fostering friendships and a deeper appreciation of cultural diversity.

The concluding activities centred on recognising and celebrating the learning journey of each participant. Through the completion and presentation of Youthpass certificates, the competences acquired during the mobility were formally acknowledged and reflected upon. A cultural visit to Ankara complemented this process by allowing participants to discover the city’s rich historical heritage while continuing to strengthen social ties and intercultural dialogue.

The final evaluation session offered an opportunity to assess the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviours developed throughout the project. The constructive feedback exchanged confirmed the project’s meaningful impact and generated valuable ideas for future environmental and youth initiatives. As the mobility came to a close, participants departed with lasting learning outcomes, renewed motivation, and a shared commitment to protecting forests and nature through continued international cooperation.