CLIMATE ACTION STARTS FROM LOCAL LEVEL
ONE MORE OPPORTUNITY, ONE MORE PROJECT….
NEW ERASMUS+ KA220 PROJECT “CLIMATE ACTION STARTS FROM LOCAL LEVEL” (CALL) STARTS!!!!
President Valdas Adamkus gymnasium can be proud of many international projects that have been successfully implemented in our school since 2014. It appears that the international Erasmus + KA 122 "ES4SS" project ended quite recently but the new one is starting since the 1st September again. One more Erasmus+ KA 220 project that is funded by the European Commission starts in September - "Climate Action starts from Local Level" whose acronym is CALL. This project will last for two years and will end on August 31st, 2025. Six countries participate in the project: Turkey, Italy, Lithuania, Latvia, Greece and project coordinators-school from Romania.
One of the main goals of the project is to develop the ecological literacy and awareness of the members of the entire gymnasium’s community (teachers, students, parents, other personnel), applying the principles of sustainable development education, to improve the general competences of gymnasium members. Environmentally literate people can make smart decisions about the product purchases, energy use, food consumption and many other areas. This can help to reduce the negative impact on the environment and promote sustainable development we all strive for, in order to preserve our green planet and fulfill the 17th Sustainable Development Goals which were announced by the United Nations in 2015.
During the entire project students will perform various tasks/assignments related to the project’s topic, participate in the workshops, communicate with peers from partner countries having online meetings, also will have the opportunity to visit other countries, get to know their culture, customs, traditions and make new friends.
Let's wish to our 7th graders great success, many memorable moments, useful experiences and a large amount of knowledge that we believe our students will acquire participating in this project.
ERASMUS+ KA220 "CALL" project has started, also various practical activities for students…
Another Erasmus+ KA 220 project "Climate Action starts from Local Level" whose acronym is CALL funded by the European Commission started. This project will last for two years and will end on August 31st, 2025. The project involves 7-8 grade students together with partners from Romania, Greece, Latvia, Turkey and Italy.
Since the beginning of the project the students have already managed to create a sustainability badge, a poster about energy saving and the logo of the project. Soon will be revealed which logo created by a school student will be the winner and will be used throughout the project but it really doesn't matter who wins because all the works of the students were creative and original.
In order to join the project students had to take part in the selection during which the applicants presented the sustainability badge they created, their approach to the global problems the world is currently facing and answered the questions given by their teachers why they want to participate in the project and what they expect from it.
A few days ago students participated in a practical workshop - they performed an experiment, the hypothesis of which will be confirmed only after a week. Project participants will monitor the greenhouse effect and record data on temperature changes in cups containing soil with microorganisms. The students not only were working in groups but also learned what greenhouse gases are, how the mechanism itself works and what the anthropogenic greenhouse effect is. We are looking forward to the results and we believe they will inspire students for new ideas and works. :)
WHY IS RENEWABLE WIND ENERGY IMPORTANT AND HOW TO INSTALL A WIND TURBINE?
The project "Climate action starts from local level" (CALL) has started and various empirical activities for project members were started to be implemented as well. The members of the project 7-8 th graders constantly participate in various practical, experiential activities in order to learn what determines climate change, what is the greenhouse effect, why human activities, such as fuel burning, deforestation, industrial activities, etc., increase greenhouse gases, contributing to global warming, what are alternative and clean energy sources and how they can be used in all of our lives.
A practical workshop was held in November, during which the project participants together with the teacher M. Mikulėnas tried to find out what wind energy is, how it can be used sustainably, what a wind turbine is, what is its working principle, what are the advantages and disadvantages of wind energy. The students built a model of the wind turbine, delved into the intricacies of the components: what is a rotor, a tower, how important are other technical specifications of the wind turbine. After the construction of the wind turbine students were testing them and became sure that wind energy can really be converted into electricity. The experiment was successful! During these practical sessions students not only gained knowledge about clean energy and its importance for the environment but also developed engineering skills, including construction, measurement and modeling skills and also improved their creative and critical thinking competencies.
Transforming Waste into Wonder: The Upcycling Journey of students from President Valdas Adamkus gymnasium in our Erasmus +CALL Project
The first mobility of project CALL took place in Romania, Iasi city (20-24 th November) whose title was “UPCYCLING” in which students from Turkey, Lithuania, Romania, Greece, Italy and Latvia together with their teachers participated in.
In a world where environmental consciousness is becoming increasingly imperative, the power of education and hands-on experience is unparalleled. Recently, within the realm of our Erasmus+ project, an enthusiastic group of 8th graders took on the challenge of exploring and implementing the art of upcycling. The project delved into the innovative practice of upcycling, which involves repurposing discarded materials into new, valuable items of higher quality or environmental value, as well as excessive consumerism that is influenced by advertisements. Through a series of workshops, (making a toy from upcycled materials) discussions (conference “Go on Green”), and practical sessions, (carbon dioxide emissions experiment) these young minds were introduced to the concept's significance in reducing waste, decreasing buying and contributing positively to our planet's sustainability.
Hands-on sessions formed the point of our project, where students engaged in transforming materials such as plastic, paper, and fabric into new products-mostly toys. From crafting decorative items to designing practical solutions for everyday challenges, each creation was a testament to their creativity and growing environmental awareness.
Moreover, this project was not limited by geographical boundaries. Collaborating with fellow students from different countries: Turkey, Lithuania, Latvia, Greece and Italy added a layer of cultural exchange, fostering a global perspective on the importance of sustainable practices and upcycling initiatives.
The documentary visits to University of Agronomical Science and Veterinary Medicine, Botanical garden, Dragos Voda Bison and Carpathian Fauna Reserve, Neamt medieval fortress and Neamt Monastery amplified the educational experience, brought theoretical knowledge to life, making it more tangible and memorable.
Stay tuned for more updates on our Erasmus+ CALL project and the incredible initiatives that will be undertaken by our students! 😊
SOME MOMENTS FROM THE MOBILITY IN ROMANIA
Students' impressions from IASI
Unusual ways of making Christmas toys from recycled materials and other activities...
Members of the "Erasmus+" project "CALL" not only travel to foreign countries but also work in various creative workshops. During the whole December students were making Christmas toys and decorations, hung them on the Christmas tree, decorated other areas of the gymnasium and recently participated in the quiz: "How much do you know about our Earth?".
All the students participating in the project enthusiastically contributed to making toys, using their creativity and innovative ideas. Toys and other Christmas decorations were created from various materials that could easily and quickly end up in the rubbish box. Old newspapers, plastic bottle caps, old fabrics, wood, metal scraps and natural materials such as nuts or branches have become the main raw materials for creating toys. While working the young project participants not just learned how to use these materials creatively and effectively but also gained deeper understanding of the importance of protecting the environment, saving, reducing consumerism and nurturing nature.
Another engaging and interesting activity in which the participants of the "CALL" project took part was the quiz "Earth from space with Samantha Cristoforetti". Students were searching information for answers to different questions about climate change, the importance of forests, geography and of course, improved their English language skills. Later, they watched the documentary movie about the expedition to the Arctic during which they learned many interesting and important facts about this region which later will be used in the next creative task.
Preveza Passage... Erasmus+ Mobility in Greece
Recently (March 25-29, 2024), the team of students and teachers of the President's Valdas Adamkaus Gymnasium participated in the mobility of the Erasmus+ project "Climate Action starts from local level" (CALL) in Preveza, Greece. The aim of the project is to promote intercultural cooperation, learning between students from different European countries, to encourage students and teachers to change their behavior in order to reduce their negative impact on the environment.
Six countries participated in project mobility: Italy, Romania, Latvia, Turkiye, Greece and Lithuania.
During the trip, the students had the opportunity to get acquainted with the culture and history of Greece, visit ancient cities such as Kassiope, Nekromanteio, Parga, admire the shores of the Archeron River, and the wonderful landscape of the Ionian Sea. In Amvrakika Bay, the participants got acquainted with a particularly important local ecosystem, admired dolphins, sea turtles and birds in their natural habitat, learned about rare and protected animal relationships that live in this region.
The Erasmus+ program provided a unique opportunity for students and teachers not only to deepen their knowledge, but also to develop values related to sustainability and environmental protection. By participating in various activities offered in the program, project participants could improve their knowledge and skills in a practical way. In the workshop on making environmentally friendly cleaners, participants learn about the impact of traditional cleaning products on the environment, learn to make ecological cleaners from natural ingredients such as vinegar, citric acid and soda, and understand the principles of sustainable use and their importance for environmental protection. In the natural soap and cream making classes, students and teachers learned about the process of making natural soap and cream using natural oils and butters.
As Mobility Week in Greece drew to a close, activities were still in full swing. Since early Thursday morning, teachers and students participating in the project planted olive trees in the city park, thereby contributing to the creation of an ecological environment. Organized activities helped to strengthen the sense of community and responsibility for the environment. Later, everyone visited the Nicopolis Museum together, where they learned about the history of the city and visited the ancient amphitheater. In addition to these project activities, the participants of the Erasmus+ program cleaned the Preveza beach, participated in orienteering competitions in the town of Preveza, and sowed the seeds of plants brought from their countries.
By participating in various activities offered by the program, Erasmus+ participants not only gained valuable knowledge and skills, but also became active environmental advocates.
Students also had the opportunity to improve their English language skills by communicating with their peers from other European countries. The project gave them not only unforgettable impressions, but also valuable knowledge and experience.
Teachers were also happy to participate in the project and improve their professional skills. They had the opportunity to get acquainted with the educational systems and methods of other countries, as well as to establish contacts with colleagues from Europe.
The ERASMUS+ program provided an excellent opportunity to improve your knowledge and skills in the field of sustainability, to gain practical experience, to get acquainted with the experience and good practices of other countries, and also to contribute to the creation of a cleaner and more sustainable future.
The mobility that took place in the city of Preveza in Greece is already the second mobility of this project (the first one took place in Romania). Very soon, i.e. next week, the third mobility of this project will take place, this time in Lithuania.
We express our sincere thanks to the project coordinators in Greece and look forward to new meetings in Lithuania.
IMPRESSIONS FROM GREECE
Empowering Climate Action: Reflecting on the Erasmus+ KA220 Mobility in Kaunas Lithuania
In a world grappling with the urgency of climate change, the importance of grassroots initiatives and localized efforts cannot be overstated. This sentiment was at the heart of the recent mobility project, aptly titled "Climate Action Starts from Local Level," hosted by President Valdas Adamkus Gymnasium in Kaunas, Lithuania. From April 8th to April 12th, 2024, educators and students from Romania, Greece, Italy, Turkiye, Latvia, and Lithuania converged in Kaunas for a transformative experience aimed at fostering environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
Under the auspices of the Erasmus+ KA220 program, with project number 2023-1-RO01-KA220-SCH-000154832, this mobility project sought to galvanize collaboration and exchange of ideas among participating schools, all with a common goal of advancing climate action at the local level.
The program kicked off with a warm welcome on April 8th as guests arrived in Kaunas, greeted by the enthusiastic Erasmus+ project team from President Valdas Adamkus Gymnasium. The ensuing days were filled with a rich tapestry of activities, each meticulously designed to educate, inspire, and empower.
On the inaugural day, after a heartfelt welcome ceremony and school tour, participants embarked on an orienteering contest in Kaunas Old Town, immersing themselves in the city's rich cultural heritage while also honing their navigational skills. The following day, students embarked on a journey to Vilnius, exploring the capital's iconic landmarks and engaging in group discussions on sustainable transportation and energy.
Wednesday saw the convergence of minds at a conference on "Green Energy," where students presented insightful analyses of green energy practices in their respective countries. Simultaneously, educators convened to reflect on the project's progress and chart a course for future collaboration. Interactive workshops on wind and solar energy, coupled with discussions on ecological footprints, provided participants with tangible tools and knowledge to drive change in their communities.
As the week progressed, the focus shifted to firsthand experiences of sustainable energy production. A visit to the Tauragė wind farm offered a glimpse into the potential of renewable energy sources, underscoring the importance of investing in clean energy infrastructure. The day concluded with a visit to Raudonė Castle, serving as a reminder of the historical and cultural significance of environmental conservation.
The penultimate day featured workshops on the sustainable CO2 cycle, encouraging students to contemplate their individual carbon footprints and explore solutions for mitigating climate change. A spirited mind-battle ensued, showcasing the depth of understanding and passion among participants.
The mobility drew to a close on a poignant note, with participants reflecting on their shared experiences and reaffirming their commitment to environmental activism. As diplomas were awarded and farewells exchanged, it was evident that the bonds forged during this mobility transcended borders and would serve as a catalyst for future collaboration.
In retrospect, the "Climate Action Starts from Local Level" mobility project was not merely a journey of exploration but a testament to the power of collective action in addressing global challenges. As participants depart for their respective homes, they carry with them a renewed sense of purpose and a steadfast determination to effect positive change in their communities. And while this chapter may have ended, the ripple effects of this collaboration are bound to resonate for years to come, inspiring generations to come together in the pursuit of a more sustainable and equitable world.
Indeed, the seeds of change have been sown, and as we bid adieu to Kaunas, we do so with the promise of reunion and the hope of a brighter, greener future.
Students' Presentations on Wind Energy
Erasmus+ Project "CALL" local activities: Empowering Students to Tackle
Lithuanian Ecological Issues
The Erasmus+ project "CALL" has brought a wave of environmental consciousness to students in Lithuania. Through a series of engaging local activities, students have delved deep into the ecological challenges faced by their country and explored innovative solutions. This hands-on approach not only fostered a deeper understanding of local environmental issues but also connected these concerns with broader global sustainability goals.
Creating Posters on Lithuanian Ecological Issues
One of the core activities of the "CALL" project involved students creating informative and visually appealing posters that highlighted key ecological issues in Lithuania. The posters covered a range of topics, including:
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Air Pollution: Students researched the major sources of air pollution in Lithuania, such as industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust, and proposed measures to reduce them, such as promoting public transportation and increasing green spaces in urban areas.
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Water Pollution: The impact of agricultural runoff and industrial waste on Lithuania's rivers and lakes was a major focus. Students suggested solutions like stricter regulations on waste disposal and the promotion of organic farming practices.
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Deforestation: The posters also addressed the issue of deforestation, emphasizing the need for sustainable forestry practices and reforestation initiatives.
Tackling Sustainable Development Goal 12
The project placed a significant emphasis on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. Students were encouraged to think critically about how their everyday choices impact the environment and what steps they can take to promote sustainability.
Measuring Water Waste in Clothing Production
To make the abstract concept of sustainable consumption more tangible, students conducted an eye-opening activity where they calculated the amount of water wasted in the production of their clothes. Using data on water consumption for manufacturing jeans and shirts, students assessed their own wardrobes at home.
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Water Usage Statistics: On average, it takes about 7,500 liters of water to produce a single pair of jeans and around 2,700 liters for a shirt. These figures include the water used for growing cotton, dyeing fabrics, and the manufacturing process.
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Personal Calculations: Students counted the number of jeans and shirts they owned and multiplied these numbers by the average water usage. The results were astonishing and highlighted the significant water footprint of their clothing.
The "CALL" project has had a profound impact on participating students. By linking local ecological issues with global sustainability goals, students have gained a comprehensive understanding of how their actions can contribute to a more sustainable future. The creative process of making posters allowed them to communicate complex ideas effectively, while the practical activity of calculating water usage instilled a sense of personal responsibility.
Lithuanian language echoed through the streets of Istanbul
Representatives of the President Valdas Adamkus Gymnasium community – students and teachers – embarked on a memorable journey to Istanbul from October 7-11, 2024. Joining partners from Turkey, Romania, Greece, Latvia, and Italy, they participated in the international Erasmus+ project, "CLIMATE ACTION STARTS FROM LOCAL LEVEL (CALL)". The overarching goal of this project is to foster intercultural cooperation, learning among students from different European countries and to encourage students and teachers to modify their behavior to reduce their negative impact on the environment.
This particular meeting focused on ecophobia, the fear of climate change. Students presented their prepared reports on this topic and participated in eco-workshops. During the five-day mobility period, students and teachers visited the city's magnificent mosques, the historic Istanbul University, the central ecological park, the obelisks of Theodosius and Constantine, the Serpent Column, the Istanbul Aquarium, the Atatürk Arboretum, and enjoyed a boat trip admiring the shores of the Bosphorus Strait. They also improved their English language skills and became acquainted with Turkish culture. Living with Turkish host families made a particularly strong impression on the students, allowing them to experience firsthand the Turkish way of life, local culture, and sincere hospitality.
Participation in the project not only enriched the participants' knowledge of climate change but also encouraged them to think critically, seek innovative solutions, and take responsibility for their actions in creating a sustainable future. The experience gained will stay with them for a lifetime, inspiring them to spread awareness about climate change and encourage others to take action.
Story of the Mobility in Istanbul
January 13th: Defending Freedom and Protecting Our Planet
The members of the CALL group engaged in a meaningful discussion about the significance of January 13th, a date etched into Lithuania’s history as a symbol of courage and the fight for freedom. Known as the Day of the Defenders of Freedom, January 13th marks the events of 1991 when the people of Lithuania stood united against Soviet aggression to protect their newly regained independence. In Vilnius, thousands of unarmed citizens formed human shields around key buildings such as the TV Tower and the Supreme Council to defend them from armed forces. Their bravery and determination, despite the tragic loss of 14 lives, became a powerful testament to the unyielding human spirit in the quest for liberty.
The discussion delved deeper into the concept of freedom, recognizing it as a fundamental right that extends beyond political independence. Freedom is the essence of human dignity, enabling individuals and nations to shape their destiny, voice their beliefs, and nurture their unique cultures. It also carries a profound moral responsibility, reminding us that liberty must be safeguarded and exercised in a way that respects others and our environment.
The group also explored how freedom is intertwined with the natural world. Just as Lithuania fought for its sovereignty, our planet’s ecosystems require protection to ensure their vitality and resilience. The fight for freedom and the fight for environmental preservation share common ground: both require vigilance, collective effort, and sacrifices for a sustainable future. Protecting the environment is, in a sense, an act of securing freedom for future generations—a freedom to breathe clean air, drink pure water, and live in harmony with nature.
Inspired by these ideas, the students expressed their reflections through a creative activity. They repurposed old cardboard boxes, transforming them into canvases for their thoughts and visions. On these posters, they wrote slogans, drew symbols, and portrayed associations that connected freedom with the natural world. Their artwork captured the essence of how liberty empowers humanity to care for the Earth, our shared home, and emphasized our role in steering the world toward sustainability.
This activity reminded everyone that, just as Lithuanians stood for freedom on January 13th, we must now stand for the freedom of our planet, ensuring it remains a place where all life can thrive.
Holistic Health: Nurturing Well-Being and Harmony with Nature
During this session with students, we explored the concept of a healthy lifestyle, emphasizing that it encompasses not only physical well-being but also mental and spiritual well-being. This activity was part of the Erasmus project CALL, and its members actively participated in the discussions and tasks. Together, we reflected on what is essential for maintaining good health, highlighting the importance of physical activity, healthy nutrition, a proper rest routine, and stress management through practices such as meditation and breathing exercises.
Particular emphasis was placed on the role of healthy nutrition in supporting overall well-being. We discussed how a balanced diet provides the necessary energy and nutrients for the body, contributing to stronger immunity and better mental focus. Equally important was the focus on stress management, as uncontrolled stress can negatively impact both physical and mental health. Students were encouraged to consider relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and spending time in nature as ways to achieve inner balance.
Physical activity was another key topic, with discussions on how regular exercise not only enhances physical fitness but also promotes emotional well-being, helping to reduce anxiety and improve mood. Moreover, we connected the idea of a healthy lifestyle with harmony with nature, emphasizing that spending time outdoors, appreciating the natural world, and living sustainably contribute to both individual and environmental health.
Working in teams, the students researched these core areas of a healthy lifestyle, using their findings to create informative and visually engaging posters. They then presented their work to their classmates, fostering a collaborative learning environment. This activity also encouraged personal reflection. Each student considered whether they currently follow healthy lifestyle recommendations and identified changes they could make in their daily lives to improve their well-being.
By integrating the principles of health, balance, and sustainability, this session aimed to inspire students to view a healthy lifestyle as a holistic approach to living—one that benefits not only themselves but also the world around them.
