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Closer to Nature: Empowering Youth Through Sport and Sustainability
The Closer to Nature project, co-funded by the Erasmus+ Sport Programme, empowers teachers, coaches, and young people aged 10–20 to engage in nature-based sports while promoting environmental awareness and sustainable forestry practices. Through educational hikes, training, and the creation of accessible forest trails, the project fosters lifelong habits of physical activity and environmental stewardship across Europe.
Specific Objectives
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To promote the involvement of young people in nature sports from an early age to create life-long habits that positively impact their health and well-being.
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Learn about how to protect the environment through sports practices in surrounding nature.
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Create easy access to trail paths in forest that enhance sustainable forestry practices.
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Create a network of collaborative teachers and coaches at the local and regional level and train them to acquire essential skills related to the project.
An Erasmus+ Sport Project Fostering Health, Education, and Environmental Stewardship
In an era where digital screens often replace green spaces, the Closer to Nature project emerges as a vital bridge connecting young people with the natural world through sport, education, and sustainable practices. Co-funded by the Erasmus+ Sport Programme of the European Commission, this innovative initiative brings together educators, coaches, and youth organizations from across Europe to inspire a new generation of environmentally conscious, active, and healthy citizens.
With a focus on young people aged 10–20, Closer to Nature is more than just a series of hikes—it’s a movement to instill lifelong habits that benefit both personal well-being and the planet. By integrating outdoor physical activity with environmental education, the project promotes a holistic approach to youth development rooted in nature.
Results
Creating Engaging Educational Materials
The journey began with thorough preparation and research, leading to impactful on-the-ground actions:
Drawing from insights gathered in earlier project phases, partners developed a rich collection of promotional and educational resources, including:
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Illustrated handbooks on forest ecosystems
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Short educational videos on sustainable forestry
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Interactive presentations tailored for school settings
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"Nature insight" cards for use during hikes
These materials were designed to be accessible, engaging, and curriculum-friendly, making it easier for schools and youth groups to integrate environmental learning into their programs.
Download the Materials
Youth in Action – Hiking, Learning, Sharing
T5.1: Bringing Nature Education to Schools
Project participants have delivered dynamic presentations in classrooms and youth clubs, using the materials created in T4.1 to spark curiosity and enthusiasm. Over 100 young people have already been introduced to the concept of “sport for sustainability,” learning how hiking can be both fun and meaningful.
T5.2: Hands-On Hiking Experiences
The highlight of the project so far has been the series of guided hikes in nature, where trained educators lead groups of at least 40 young people per partner organization. During these walks, participants learn about:
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Local flora and fauna
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The role of forests in combating climate change
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How sustainable forestry supports both people and nature
But the learning doesn’t stop there. Young hikers are encouraged to become storytellers themselves—creating photos, videos, and social media posts to share their experiences with peers, families, and communities. This peer-to-peer outreach multiplies the project’s impact and fosters a sense of ownership and pride.
🌍 Local Impact, European Vision
So far, the Closer to Nature project has achieved significant milestones:
✅ Over 100 young people engaged across Europe
✅ 4 new or improved forest trails established
✅ High-quality educational materials produced and distributed
✅ A growing network of trained teachers and coaches empowered
✅ Strong collaboration with schools, NGOs, and local authorities
Meetings and planning sessions have been documented thoroughly, ensuring transparency and continuity. The success of each activity is measured not just by numbers, but by the smiles on young faces, the questions they ask about trees and wildlife, and the videos they proudly share online.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them. The project "Climb It Up: Climbing for Social Inclusion & Diversity" (Project ID: 101132956).