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PolskiOCEA(n)RT - Increasing youth participation to address plastic -“COVID-Waste”- litter through visual artworks
KMOP is one of the oldest civil society organizations, based in Greece. The organization is determined to positively impact humans by implementing innovative activities and conducting research that addresses the most significant social issues.
2021-2023
Europe
Description of the Green Initiative
Young people and youth workers
The project aims to:
- extend the knowledge and competencies of youth workers to enhance young people’s youth participation and motivate them to reduce plastic through visual pieces of artwork
- provide access to good practices relevant to ocean protection activities
- raise awareness of marine plastic pollution and the litter that was produced during the pandemic.
The project addresses the need for plastic litter that was produced during the COVID pandemic. Through research, the consortium of this project spotted the dramatic effect of single-use plastics that were used for hygiene purposes, such as masks, gloves, etc., and disposed of in the oceans, affecting life underwater. For these purposes, the project suggests the development of digital tools and materials and the implementation of training aiming to raise awareness among young people and enhance youth workers’ capacity on the topic, by using visual arts.
In the context of the project, there will be developed 3 results:
- a Guide for CSOs, youth and environmental organizations, and cultural and creative sector grassroots;
- a capacity-building program for youth workers;
- an awareness-raising policy toolkit.
The three results aim to promote active youth participation in initiatives regarding the reduction of plastics, enhance youth workers’ and relevant stakeholders’ knowledge and skills and, finally, promote policy-making against plastic litter that was produced during the COVID pandemic.
The integration of visual arts introduces an engaging approach, thus creating a base for further exploration of the issue’s negative impact. Also, the focus on plastic produced during the COVID-19 showcases an innovative and immediate response to a current issue.
Involving young people to contribute to plastic litter reduction through visual art, the project promotes creativity, engagement, and awareness among them. In addition, the acquired skills and knowledge could be utilized in various contexts, allowing their replication. The project's focus on youth participation is crucial, as it empowers young people to assume a pivotal role in raising awareness and addressing the challenges related to plastic pollution. Visual art use communicates the message effectively as well as appeals to a wider audience.