Forging the inclusion of persons with disabilities in climate action through 3x3 basketball urban sport

<< Background >>At FORTHE, we bridged the gap between youth with disabilities, urban sports (3x3 basketball), and climate action. Inspired by the UN's Strategy for Disability Rights (2021-2030), we took a unique approach, integrating all four elements for a more impactful experience.Our project aligned with the EU Green New Deal (2021) and Education for Climate Coalition (2021). We promoted eco-friendly urban sports practices and empowered young people to take climate action. At the Cyprus tournament, participants tracked their CO2 footprint with CarbonAcademy tools. This data guided our tree-planting efforts, ensuring we offset generated emissions. FORTHE actively involved local organizations, citizens, and policymakers. We leveraged our existing partnerships to create a strong network of support. Inspired by the EU Youth Strategy (2019-2027), we empowered young people with disabilities to become agents of change within their communities. To maximize impact, we developed a robust dissemination strategy. Multiplier events, video series, and awareness campaigns reached broad audiences throughout and beyond the project's duration. << Objectives >>The FORTHE project empowered young people with disabilities through urban sports (3x3 basketball) and climate action. It tackled post-COVID challenges by training youth workers to run inclusive events, organized tournaments, and promoted disability-friendly climate policies. FORTHE tackled inclusion barriers by researching and publishing findings (1 open access publication, 1 synthesis). It built capacity for youth workers (training on green sports events). The project's legacy was a 5-day training for future organizers on assessing the environmental impact of youth sports events. Additionally, it provided training materials (5 fiches, 5 infographics in 5 languages) to enhance sustainability and digital skills. Social inclusion and climate action were promoted through 4 local and 1 transnational green 3x3 wheelchair basketball tournaments. To ensure long-term impact, FORTHE dedicated a work package to policymaking, engaging local communities. Active citizenship was fostered through climate action initiatives led by young people with disabilities (tournaments, tree planting, Eco-athlete rewards). The FORTHE Manifesto encouraged local organizations and public bodies to support climate action through urban sports for disabled youth.<< Implementation >>Following the proposal and Gantt Chart, all project partners collaborated on extensive research across five countries. This national and international exploration generated valuable insights into youth disability inclusion, highlighting both existing disparities and areas for improvement. Key achievements included the creation of multifaceted, accessible awareness and training materials available in four languages for maximum reach. By examining youth inclusion and its link to environmental sustainability, the project fostered crucial discussions among policymakers, NGOs, and stakeholders. Successful case studies and events also produced actionable strategies that emphasized the connection between youth inclusion and green practices. This data-driven approach established a strong foundation for impactful advocacy and policy changes.<< Results >>A meticulous data collection methodology explores the impact of post-Covid-19 on disabled youth wellbeing, focusing on physical activity. A curated resource collection and website showcase provide a strong foundation.15 innovative urban sports ideas were developed, emphasizing inclusivity and sustainability. Rigorous evaluation ensures optimal impact. A comprehensive document details project findings, available on the website.Diverse stakeholder round tables identified with meticulous planning. Results were collected and analyzed, leading to a high-quality, accessible 10-page synthesis report on the project website. This report has also been translated into all partner languages.Partners conducted desk research to identify best practices in green urban sports for disabled youth. This research, along with compelling stories, informed the development of FORTHE training materials.10 most impactful practices in green urban sports for disabled youth were identified. Five training fiches and infographics were meticulously created, translated into five languages, and released as open-access resources.