ECO technology: Educate Create Organise

<< Background >>After 3 years of war, many Ukrainian refugees in Germany and Poland have learned the local languages. Integration goes beyond language skills, it means building friendships with locals, accessing the labor market and collaborating on shared challenges such as environmental sustainability and climate action.We identified a significant need: many refugees have not fully integrated into their new communities and struggle to form meaningful connections with locals, and a considerable number remain inactive in the job market.At the same time, we have been experimenting with 3D printing technology. We discovered its potential as a creative tool for young people and to raise awareness about sustainability. By integrating 3D printing with upcycled fashion, we aim to highlight the environmental impact of fast fashion and educate participants about the challenges and importance of plastic sorting and recycling.We sought to use 3D printing—an engaging and innovative technology—to attract young people, particularly refugees, and empower them with new skills. By bringing together locals and refugees in a shared learning environment, we aimed to foster social connections and encourage collaboration on environmental issues.<< Objectives >>Our project aimed to tackle environmental challenges and promote sustainability and recycling while facilitating the social and professional integration of 80 Ukrainian refugees in Germany and Poland. By introducing 3D printing as an educational tool, we sought to inspire a sense of responsibility for sustainability, encouraging participants to recycle plastic and clothing. We wanted to raise awareness among Ukrainian refugees, particularly young people, about the importance of recycling and sustainable practices. We aimed to equip Ukrainian refugees with new skills in technology and ecology, fostering both personal and professional growth. A key initiative of the project involved using 3D printing to create eco-friendly and motivational slogans on recycled garments, showcasing the creative possibilities of sustainable technology in practice. Additionally, we highlighted the benefits and appeal of 3D printing in connection with recycling, inspiring innovation and engagement.Beyond skill development and sustainability awareness, the project aimed to boost the integration of young Ukrainian refugees, helping them connect with their new communities.<< Implementation >>During the first 3 months, InMOE and the Green Elephant Foundation (GEF) held multiple online meetings and a 2-day Transnational Partner Meeting (TPM) in Berlin. We developed a Gantt chart outlining milestones, established a shared understanding of project outcomes, implementation, and monitoring. InMOE conducted a workshop on 3D modeling and printing for GEF members to ensure technical alignment. We launched landing pages and created promotional videos to attract participants.Workshops on teaching 3D modeling, 3D printing, recycling, and upcycling—integrating 3D-printed elements with upcycled fashion—were developed, including educational content on fast fashion’s ecological impact and circular economy solutions. After finalizing materials, active participant recruitment (M3-M5) began, resulting in over 80 trained individuals (M6-M11).A follow-up TPM in Poland focused on evaluation and dissemination. Dissemination efforts included landing page updates, a four-language handbook, 10 tutorial videos, a social media campaign, and organizing an online webinar for other NGOs to share project insights and replication strategies. Throughout the project (M1-M15), monthly online meetings ensured continuous monitoring.<< Results >>Over 80 participants received training in 3D modeling, 3D printing and sustainable practices (over 50 hours). In Germany, more than half of the participants were Ukrainian refugees and the collaboration with local participants fostered integration, friendships and mutual understanding. In Poland, the majority of participants were Ukrainian refugees. The trainings enhanced technical skills, employability and self-confidence. As a creative output, participants designed upcycled fashion pieces incorporating 3D-printed ornaments and made photos to inspire others to extend clothing life cycles through sustainable practices.To disseminate results, we organized a webinar with around 23 participants, including representatives from German and Polish NGOs, a scientific institute and companies. We shared insights on how to apply the concept to other initiatives. We published a comprehensive toolkit outlining project replication guidelines. We held 3 follow-up workshops in Berlin for motivated participants. It resulted in a small community. In Poland we organised the dissemination activities (2 physical meetings) among young people of school and university age with 42+36 people from different nations (UA, PL, GT, IT, HU, AL, RO).