SustainABLE!

While marginalised young people may not always express eco-anxiety in the same terms or at the same reported rates as their more affluent peers, they frequently experience the direct impacts of environmental degradation more acutely (e.g., living in polluted areas, vulnerability to extreme weather events). For these young people, the climate crisis is often intertwined with existing systemic issues of poverty, inequality, and limited resources, leading to feelings of powerlessness, distrust in systems, and a focus on immediate survival rather than abstract future threats. Their experience can be characterized by a "double burden" of environmental hazards and socio-economic disadvantages, which can amplify feelings of vulnerability and hopelessness. This oversight not only perpetuates inequalities but also misses crucial perspectives and potential solutions from those often most impacted by environmental degradation. This training addresses the need to bridge this gap, fostering inclusivity and empowerment within the sustainability movement.

This training course is designed to empower youth workers and educators with the tools and knowledge to engage young people, particularly those with fewer opportunities, in critical discussions and actions related to **sustainability**, the **climate crisis**, and **environmental protection**. Through an interactive and participatory approach, participants will explore the systemic changes needed to address these global challenges, and practical changes needed in their practice to support young people through climate crisis better.

Aim: The primary aim of "SustainABLE!" is to empower and equip participants with the skills and confidence to effectively engage young people with fewer opportunities in the topic and practice of sustainability, climate crisis, and environmental protection.

Objectives:

* To foster an understanding of the interconnectedness between social exclusion, poverty, and environmental issues.
* To develop strategies for building trust and rapport with young people who may be disengaged from mainstream systems.
* To explore innovative and accessible methods for educating young people about the climate crisis and environmental protection.
* To empower participants to facilitate discussions and actions that promote systemic change for a more sustainable future.
* To encourage the inclusion of diverse voices and experiences in environmental activism and policy discussions.

Learning outcomes:

* Design and implement engaging educational activities on sustainability and climate change tailored for young people from diverse backgrounds.
* Effectively address misconceptions and foster critical thinking about environmental issues among young people.
* Develop strategies to empower marginalized youth to become active participants in environmental initiatives.
* Identify and advocate for systemic changes needed to promote environmental justice and sustainability within their communities.
* Utilize peer-learning techniques to facilitate knowledge sharing and empowerment among young people.
* Confidently integrate principles of non-formal education and experiential learning into their youth work practice.

Methodology: The course methodology in this training is based on experiential learning and non-formal education. Our aim is to create an atmosphere where participants can learn from each other (peer learning) and feel empowered to share their experiences, reflect, and critically examine their practice. This hands-on approach encourages active participation, critical thinking, and the direct application of newly acquired knowledge and skills.

Trainers:

Aistė Šlajutė: A trainer/ facilitator who has over 15 years of experience in a field of non-formal education and youth, working with marginalized young people in the fields of human rights education, focusing on empowerment, inclusion, and youth-led change.