Buy Less, Choose Well, Make It Last - Waste Management

Black Wood Environmental Biedrība participated as a partner in the Erasmus+ Youth Exchange project "Buy Less, Choose Well, Make It Last" (Project No: 2022-3-HU01-KA152-YOU-000094019), coordinated by Young Nature Volunteers in Debrecen, Hungary, between 1–8 October 2023. The project brought together participants from Czechia, Hungary, Slovenia, Spain, Türkiye to strengthen environmental awareness, promote responsible consumption, and encourage sustainable lifestyles through non-formal education and intercultural cooperation.

Participants expanded their understanding of waste management through an informative learning session supported by scientific research and interactive discussions. They explored different types of waste, examined the environmental impacts of improper disposal, and learned why effective waste management policies are essential for protecting natural resources. By combining presentations with open dialogue, the session encouraged participants to question existing knowledge, exchange perspectives, and build a stronger foundation for environmentally responsible decision-making.

The programme also created an opportunity for each national team to present the waste management policies implemented in their own countries. Through comparative presentations, participants shared successful practices, current challenges, and statistical information reflecting local environmental conditions. Discussions within mixed international groups encouraged critical thinking and enabled participants to recognize both common environmental concerns and innovative approaches that could inspire future action across different communities.

Preparation for upcoming field activities became another important learning component of the programme. Participants received detailed guidance about the practical research tasks they would carry out and formed permanent international working groups focusing on different areas of waste management, including households, schools, workplaces, and restaurants. Working within diverse teams strengthened cooperation, planning, communication, and problem-solving skills while encouraging participants to take shared responsibility for achieving common objectives.

Reflection and intercultural exchange completed the learning experience by giving participants the opportunity to evaluate their personal development, teamwork, and environmental practices. Zero-waste assessments encouraged participants to monitor their own daily habits and consider ways to reduce their environmental footprint. The cultural evening further enriched the programme as participants from Türkiye and Slovenia introduced their traditions, music, food, and cultural heritage while collaboratively creating recycled-material posters that celebrated diversity and demonstrated how creativity and sustainability can successfully complement one another.