DIGITAL CLEAN UP COMPAIGN

<< Background >>We applied for this project to address the growing need for awareness around the environmental impact of digitalization and media consumption. As students increasingly rely on cloud storage, streaming, and social media, we identified a lack of understanding about the hidden energy use and e-waste these habits generate. The project aimed to promote more sustainable digital practices through education, collaboration, and creative campaigns. To meet this need, students explored the concept of digital pollution, participated in digital clean-up activities, and produced 55 campaign products to encourage behavior change. Awareness levels improved significantly, and the project fostered critical thinking, media literacy, and environmental responsibility. Teachers and students became more conscious of their digital footprint, and the campaign reached a wide audience through social media. The project addressed a real educational gap by combining environmental awareness with digital competence in a practical and engaging way.<< Objectives >>The project aimed to raise awareness of the environmental impact of digital habits and promote more sustainable behavior among students and their communities. By focusing on issues like energy use, e-waste, and digital overconsumption, we wanted to empower young people to take action—such as deleting redundant files, extending device lifespan, and reducing screen time. The project addressed key Erasmus+ priorities: fighting climate change, supporting digital transformation, and developing key competences. Through international collaboration, creative media production, and peer learning, students became more conscious of their digital footprint and gained skills in communication, critical thinking, and civic engagement. Our goal was not only to inform, but to inspire lasting change in digital behavior—locally and across Europe.<< Implementation >>We implemented a wide range of activities to raise awareness about digital pollution. Students participated in international exchanges in Slovenia, Croatia, and Norway, where they created posters, short films, and social media campaigns. Each exchange included expert talks, creative workshops, and collaborative group work. A key activity was the “Digital Clean-Up,” where students and teachers deleted unnecessary files and emails to reduce their digital footprint. Campaign materials were shared on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and the project website. Pre- and post-surveys measured awareness and behavior change. Social activities were also included to build friendships and promote intercultural understanding. Teachers supported students throughout, and all partners contributed to planning, logistics, and evaluation. A final teacher meeting was held in Spain to assess the project and complete the final report. The project combined education, creativity, and action to promote sustainable digital habits.<< Results >>The project produced a total of 55 campaign products, including 24 posters, 5 films for youtube, 18 short clips for social media content and 7 behind the scenes short clips, all created by students in international teams. A booklet summarizing key messages was also developed. These materials were shared on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube, reaching thousands of young people across Europe. Four digital clean-up events were held, involving over 1000 students and teachers, resulting in the deletion of terabytes of unnecessary data. Surveys showed increased awareness of digital pollution, with students reporting behavior changes such as deleting files and reducing screen time. Teachers integrated the topic into lessons, and the campaign was presented at national and international events. The project fostered digital competence, environmental responsibility and intercultural collaboration.