Deplastify Europe – Erasmus+ Jugendbegegnung in Judenburg
From 23–29 March 2025, Austrian and Polish students took part in an Erasmus+ Youth Exchange in Judenburg, Austria, dedicated to sustainability, environmental awareness, and intercultural learning. After their arrival on Sunday evening, the Polish group settled in with their host families and prepared for an exciting week.
The programme began on Monday with a warm welcome, an online survey, and a scavenger hunt to explore the venue. Ice‑breaking games helped the group get to know each other, followed by the first introduction to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In the afternoon, the students explored Judenburg through an SDG‑themed scavenger hunt and reflected on their first impressions before returning to their host families.
On Tuesday, the group started the day with reflection activities and then focused on the topic “Plastic Planet,” learning about plastic waste and preparing short presentations. Two creative workshops with sustainability experts followed, centred on the theme of sustainable cities. The day ended with continued work on plastic‑reduction strategies and a group leader dinner.
Wednesday offered a mix of creativity and hands‑on environmental learning. Students read the comic “Plastica’s Revenge” and acted out small scenes before splitting into workshops on sustainable soap production and organic plastic. Over lunch, they cooked pizza together, strengthening their teamwork. In the afternoon, they joined the Europe‑wide initiative “Plastic Pirates,” collecting plastic waste and analysing river water samples. In the evening, they watched “Barbie Girl” and completed a questionnaire to discuss environmental messages in media.
Thursday was dedicated to mixed‑group teamwork. Austrian and Polish students prepared presentations on their countries, strategies to reduce plastic usage, sustainable cities, Plastica’s Revenge, and the week’s activities. A creative highlight of the exchange was the fashion show, where groups designed outfits made from recycled plastic materials. This was followed by a visit to the Red Bull Ring and a festive cultural evening, where participants presented their work, celebrated together, and received certificates.
On Friday, the group travelled to Graz for a scientific workshop at Cosa, enjoyed lunch, and explored the city through a scavenger hunt. Social activities rounded off the day before their return to Judenburg.
Saturday marked the departure of the Polish group, who left with new knowledge, creative experiences, and friendships built across cultures. The week offered a rich mix of learning, sustainability, teamwork, and intercultural exchange—an inspiring Erasmus+ experience for everyone involved.
Padlet: https://padlet.com/letschallengethefuture/youth-in-action-deplastify-europe-xt3yumjmvxk20rm/wish/dMA1W8MDbMBpa4OV
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