Water Saviours

"<< Background >>Students of young age lack understanding of the rate and impact of climate change and do not naturally adopt behaviors like recycling and environmental protection. Students are generally unaware of the significant role that local rivers or seas play in their community’s history, economy, and culture, as this is not commonly included in school curricula.This project tackles the lack of environmental knowledge and engagement among students, the ongoing pollution in waterfront areas, and the need for stronger community involvement in sustainable practices. It also provides a platform for international cooperation to exchange effective strategies and raise awareness across diverse groups. By addressing these needs, the project aimed to foster a generation of environmentally conscious, active citizens.We applied for this project to address several pressing needs related to environmental awareness and sustainable behaviors, particularly among young students and their communities. The key needs addressed are as follows:1. Lack of Awareness Among Students.2. Environmental Challenges in Waterfront Areas.3. Ineffectiveness of Current Awareness Efforts.4. Promoting Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing.<< Objectives >>By implementing this Erasmus project, we aimed to achieve the following outcomes:1. Raise Awareness of Climate Change Impacts.Educate and sensitize participants about the effects of climate change, particularly focusing on how it affects human communities living near waterfronts. This includes understanding the relationship between water pollution, the aquatic ecosystem, and its broader social and economic implications.2. Encourage Environmental Conservation.Promote positive attitudes and behaviors towards environmental protection, such as selective waste collection and recycling, particularly in schools. By the end of the project, an increase in environmental responsibility was expected among students and the school community.3. Strengthen International Cooperation and Exchange of Good Practices.Foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among schools from waterfront communities, enabling them to exchange experiences and strategies for addressing climate change and water pollution.The project sought to combine education, practical actions, and international collaboration to address the challenges of climate change and water pollution, while empowering young participants to contribute positively to their environment.<< Implementation >>All planned projects were successfully implemented in the project:•Water pollution effects and general ways to reduce it•The tale of... an endangered animal from my area•""Water Saviours"" Project site•Logo contest ""Water Saviours""•""Save the Water"" campaign•""International Water Day"" Celebration (twice)•Recycling campaign•""A Love Story in Time: City and the Water"" – Old photo/cards exhibition•""My City and the River"" – Educational visit•Three short-term exchanges of student groups in Izmir, Türkiye; Ustka, Poland; and Riihimäki, Finland<< Results >>The project combined environmental education, creative expression, and international collaboration. Students gained valuable knowledge and experiences that strengthened their understanding of global water issues.Key Achievements:•Environmental Education: Teaching materials on water pollution and recycling, awareness campaigns, and celebration of World Water Day.•Creative Activities: Project website, logo competition, and storytelling about endangered species.•Cultural Component: Photo exhibition and educational visits to local water heritage sites.•Student Exchanges: Short-term exchanges in İzmir, Ustka, and Riihimäki supported intercultural learning and environmental responsibility."