Project Information
Project Reference: 2023-1-FR02-KA153-YOU-000130015
Status: Completed
Duration: June 2023 – May 2025
EU Grant: €91,249
Programme: Erasmus+
Action Type: Mobility of Youth Workers
Countries Involved: France, Portugal, Netherlands, Hungary, Germany
Project Background
The Symbiosis project was developed in response to the growing impact of eco-anxiety among young people and youth workers. Climate change and environmental challenges increasingly affect mental well-being, creating feelings of uncertainty, stress, and helplessness. The project aimed to help youth workers better understand these challenges and support young people in a positive and constructive way.
By combining environmental education, mental health support, and nature-based learning, the project created opportunities for participants to explore new approaches to youth work while strengthening their connection with nature and sustainability.
Project Objectives
The main objective of Symbiosis was to provide youth workers with practical tools and methods to address eco-anxiety and promote emotional resilience. The project also aimed to improve the quality of youth work by introducing innovative learning approaches based on environmental awareness and collective intelligence.
Another important goal was to strengthen inclusion and diversity within youth work. The project encouraged participants to build a shared European vision focused on sustainability, mental well-being, and active community engagement.
Project Activities
The project was built around two main training activities: Ego Symbiosis and Eco Symbiosis. Both activities took place in an ecological venue in Cornac, France, where participants experienced a combination of workshops, practical exercises, and outdoor learning sessions.
The programme included discussions on eco-anxiety, emotional agility, sustainability, and personal well-being. Through both indoor and outdoor activities, participants explored how nature can support mental health and help people develop healthier responses to environmental concerns.
Participants and Inclusion
A total of 60 participants took part in the project, including youth workers, educators, facilitators, and young people affected by eco-anxiety. Participants came from France, Germany, Hungary, Portugal, and the Netherlands, bringing diverse experiences and perspectives to the project.
Special attention was given to inclusion. The project actively involved people with fewer opportunities, including participants from disadvantaged regions, low-income backgrounds, and individuals with disabilities. This approach ensured equal access to learning and participation for everyone involved.
Development of the Symbiosis Methodology
One of the most important outcomes of the project was the creation of the Symbiosis Methodology. This methodology combines practical tools, exercises, and learning approaches designed to help youth workers address eco-anxiety and promote emotional well-being.
The methodology focuses on nature-based learning, emotional resilience, sustainability practices, and participatory education. It provides a structured framework that can be adapted to different youth work settings across Europe.
Key Results and Achievements
The project delivered significant benefits for both participants and organisations. Youth workers improved their skills in facilitation, emotional support, and environmental education. Many participants reported increased confidence and a better ability to support young people facing ecological concerns.
Partner organisations also benefited from new educational methods and sustainable working practices. The project strengthened cooperation between European organisations and created a network of professionals committed to improving youth well-being and environmental awareness.
Community Impact and Dissemination
Beyond the training activities, Symbiosis reached wider communities through public events, workshops, exhibitions, performances, social media campaigns, and publications. These activities helped raise awareness about eco-anxiety and encouraged discussions about sustainability and mental health.
The project inspired local initiatives and encouraged participants to share their knowledge within schools, youth centres, and community organisations, extending the project’s impact far beyond the original activities.
Conclusion
Symbiosis demonstrated how youth work can effectively combine mental health support with environmental education. By providing practical tools, innovative methodologies, and opportunities for international cooperation, the project empowered participants to address eco-anxiety in a constructive and positive way.
Its legacy continues through the Symbiosis Methodology, stronger European partnerships, and a growing network of youth workers dedicated to supporting both people and the planet.
