From the green mountains of Martinique to the hearts of young Europeans, the “You (aw)are Plastic Free!” youth exchange has united passionate changemakers in the battle for a cleaner, sustainable planet.
Hosted in Le Carbet, Martinique, from January 23 to 31, 2023, this inspiring Erasmus+ youth exchange gathered 30 young participants from six European countries — France, Turkey, the Netherlands, Spain, Serbia, and Martinique, to raise awareness about plastic pollution and promote sustainable living habits.
The island of Martinique, known for its lush landscapes and pristine beaches, has long suffered from the impact of marine plastic waste. Through the “You (aw)are Plastic Free!” project, participants explored how everyday consumption habits contribute to pollution and how collective action can reverse the tide.
The project’s mission is rooted in the belief that meaningful change starts with awareness, education, and collaboration. Its key objectives include:
Inspiring environmental responsibility and sustainable habits;
Promoting recycling and re-use as everyday practices;
Raising awareness about marine pollution and climate change;
Encouraging creativity, intercultural exchange, and volunteering;
Building tolerance, equality, and mutual understanding among European youth.
Workshops, discussions, and hands-on activities empowered participants to think globally and act locally — designing initiatives to reduce waste and spread eco-conscious behavior in their own communities.
As one of the key partners, EKOLOŠKO UDRUŽENJE ZA ZAŠTITU I UNAPREĐENJE ŽIVOTNE SREDINE — EKO Mladenovac proudly represented Serbia in this international effort. Our delegation worked closely with other partner organizations, including Les Voiles du Carbet (France), Modern Gelişim Derneği (Turkey), Stichting Wave Education (Netherlands), and Al-Qultivarnos (Spain).
EKO Mladenovac contributed not only through participant preparation and engagement but also by promoting the project’s values at home — fostering environmental awareness among Serbian youth and supporting sustainable community projects inspired by this exchange.
The “You (aw)are Plastic Free!” experience didn’t end when the participants returned home. Each young person became an ambassador for sustainability, spreading knowledge and motivating others to rethink their plastic consumption. The friendships, ideas, and cross-cultural connections made in Martinique are now sparking new initiatives across Europe.
This project reminds us all that tackling plastic pollution starts at its source, with our choices, our awareness, and our collaboration.
EKO Mladenovac remains committed to protecting the environment, supporting youth education, and building networks that inspire positive ecological change. We are proud to have been part of this meaningful journey, and we continue to work towards a world where both people and nature can thrive without plastic.
