The project uses upcycling and DIY as practical tools to tackle waste, overconsumption, climate change and rural development challenges. Implemented as a 9-day youth exchange in Alcalá la Real (Spain) with 33 young people and youth leaders from Spain, Austria, Germany, Croatia, the Netherlands and Hungary, it focuses on turning discarded materials into new, useful products and engaging directly with the local community. By combining hands-on creativity, environmental education and community action, the project supports the European Green Deal and promotes the 3Rs – Reuse, Reduce, Recycle, while leaving visible, lasting benefits in the local context through upcycled items donated to residents and strengthened awareness of waste management.

The project aims to strengthen young people’s green and DIY competences so they can become multipliers for reuse and recycling practices in their own communities. It seeks to:

• Raise awareness among young people about waste, excessive consumption and climate change, particularly in rural areas with limited resources.
• Develop upcycling and craftsmanship skills, enabling participants to transform materials considered “trash” (e.g. old furniture, clothes, household items) into new products with practical and symbolic value.
• Promote environmental responsibility and critical thinking about consumer culture by working directly with waste and seeing its potential.
• Create tangible local impact in Alcalá la Real through door-to-door awareness actions, community DIY activities and a public exhibition, reinforcing solidarity and intergenerational dialogue.
• Stimulate follow-up initiatives (DIY workshops, green projects, Erasmus+ and ESC activities) that continue to reduce waste and encourage upcycling after the youth exchange.