The challenge:
Lack of understanding of environmental issues is a key challenge that needs to be overcome in order to change behaviors and engage more people in the preservation of the environment. Disconnection between young people and nature is a serious obstacle that deepens the lack of awareness towards the environmental challenges.
In Cyclades, where tourism overshadows all other activities of professional and daily life, the issue emerges more acutely than in other regions. Αs the environment in touristic islands, such as Mykonos, is under severe pressure due to the phenomenon of overtourism, new generations need to be more informed and aware in order to stand up for the environment.
The solution:
The Summer Workshops in Mykonos implemented by the University of the Aegean, in August 2024, are a shining example of needed work that educates young people in islands burdened by overtourism.
With the support of CPF, Sofia Chanioti, an environmental education and waste management expert, envisioned and implemented a series of activities that brought together children, parents, and the local community, empowering the younger generation and inspiring their parents and local residents to adopt eco-friendly practices.
The project was highly accepted by the local community, but it was also recognised internationally. Sofia Chanioti has been put on the front page of the UNEP Mediterranean Coast Day, among women who drive change in coastal communities.
The activities were hosted in the Ano Mera Primary School, which was kindly provided by the Municipality of Mykonos.
Project’s deliverables:
Educational Activities
The 14-day program featured hands-on activities that engaged children and teenagers in addressing critical environmental challenges. These activities ranged from detecting and analyzing microplastics in the ocean to responding to oil spills and creating artistic items through reuse and upcycling methods.
Beach Clean-ups
A full truckload of waste collected each time, with the majority of them being plastics and marine debris.
The project received positive feedback from participants and their families, many of whom expressed a newfound commitment to environmental conservation.
About the Grantee:
The University of the Aegean is a multi-insular institution, with departments on six Aegean islands making it the most geographically dispersed university of Greece.
Sofia Chanioti, holds a strong background in environmental education and waste management, with years of experience promoting sustainable practices. She has worked on a wide range of projects, from community recycling initiatives to educational workshops focused on reducing waste.
