Grey To Green Erasmus+

 
The "Grey to Green" project, held in August 2024, responded to the urgent need to mitigate the environmental impacts of climate change and rapid urbanization, particularly the loss of green spaces and biodiversity. The training focused on equipping youth workers with the skills and knowledge necessary for sustainable eco-construction, providing practical strategies to counteract the negative effects of urban development. Participants explored the challenges of urbanization, including habitat destruction, the creation of heat islands, increased pollution, higher energy consumption, and disruptions to ecosystems and water flow. Through sustainable planning, the project emphasized green infrastructure, renewable resources, and energy-efficient designs as solutions to strike a balance between urban growth and ecological preservation.

The name "Grey to Green" symbolizes the transformative shift from conventional, resource-intensive building practices (grey infrastructure) to environmentally conscious and nature-inspired methods (green infrastructure). Participants engaged in hands-on training to build a straw-bale house, utilizing the thermal properties of the structure and locally sourced materials aligned with the wheat harvest. This practical activity demonstrated the affordability and efficiency of natural building techniques.

By addressing economic barriers in housing development and preparing participants for future challenges, including climate-induced migration, the training emphasized resilience and sustainability. Participants gained practical skills in cost-effective construction, renovation, ecological design, and the integration of renewable energy, positioning them as changemakers capable of harmonizing urban development with environmental conservation. Over the course of the project, participants built a strawbale house utilizing a local and readily available natural material. 

Ultimately, "Grey to Green" aspired to inspire a shift toward sustainable practices in urban planning and construction, encouraging a greener and more resilient future. By empowering youth workers with innovative tools and eco-conscious mindsets, the project laid the groundwork for widespread adoption of sustainable building practices, creating positive impacts on communities and ecosystems alike.