diGital, tRadition, Ecological rEspoNsability in Europe

<< Background >>The aim of GREENE was to highlight and further develop the potential of seniors who were already actively engaged in various activities. This target group played a central role for the project partners even before the project began. They were involved in many ways in volunteering, collaborating on reading initiatives, in intergenerational exchanges and taking part in regular community based activities.GREENE responded to clear and demanding needs, particularly by social inclusion. All partner organisations focused on older people living in disadvantaged urban areas, which are often characterised by high social and economic burdens, as well as a high percentage of residents with migrant backgrounds. Many seniors in these neighbourhoods are at risk of social isolation and have limited access to topics such as sustainability and digitalisation, or feel that these topics do not address them. The project made these topics tangible and relevant through practical, accessible approaches.Seniors from culturally diverse and disadvantaged neighbourhoods have a strong need for respectful spaces where they feel secure and can share their diverse cultural identities and life experiences without fear exclusion or being overhelmd.<< Objectives >>Aim of the project was to raise awareness among seniors about key societal issues such as climate and environmental protection as well as digitalization. The focus was not on abstract knowledge transfer, but on making these topics tangible and relevant to everyday life - through activities and methods that reflect the interests, experiences, and abilities of the target group. Learning was designed to take place on equal footing, encouraging mutual exchange and empowering older participants to engage actively and with autonomy.Another key goal was to expand the methods and approaches used by social workers and educators in their work with people aged 55+. By engaging in exchange with partner organizations, the project aimed to bring new ideas, European perspectives, and proven practices into local contexts and to enhance the overall quality of senior work.The project aimed also to actively involve seniors in European projects to strengthen their understanding of European values and solidarity. At the same time, the project supported intercultural exchange to promote mutual understanding and long-term cooperation across communities.<< Implementation >>The project began with a virtual kick-off meeting focused on project planning and clarifying roles and responsibilities, followed by a workshop in Varna focusing on ecological farming, seasonal vegetables and sustainable food. Participants also had the opportunity to transform their experiences into media contributions (e.g. videos and photos) and hand-on activities to reflect on and process the content.In virtual cooking sessions and hands-on workshops, participants explored practical ways to integrate sustainability into everyday life, tested recipes, and exchanged ideas about regional food cultures. Various digital tools were also used to support the learning process.The workshop in Mulhouse provided all participants with a methodological foundation for climate education. The training in Chemnitz enabled deeper collaboration, joint reflection, and discussions around the conscious and efficient use of resources such as reducing plastic use, saving water, and reusing leftovers.The final meeting in Varna focused on evaluation, final planning, and a follow-up project. Highlights were the multiplier events held in Chemnitz, Mulhouse and Varna, where the project's results were presented to a wider audience.<< Results >>1. Enhancing skills and knowledge- The participating partners and staff significantly expanded their competencies in intercultural cooperation, Erasmus+ project work, and European networking.- Social workers developed new skills in addressing topics such as sustainability, environmental responsibility, and working with seniors.- The participating seniors strengthened their social, digital, language, and intercultural skills by using digital tools and apps, engaging with the English language, and gaining insights into other cultures.2. Concrete products / outputs- A project (COOK) book in which participants share their experiences, share personal stories, and present recipes developed during the cooking workshops. The book serves as a valuable cultural document.- Videos with feedback from three participants. These document and highlight the impact of the project.