 On 12–13 May 2025, partners in the Erasmus+ policy experimentation project On the Move gathered in Athens for the official kick-off meeting. The two-day event, hosted by Action Synergy, marked the launch of a three-year effort to support the design and implementation of blended mobility in vocational education and training (VET). The project brings together partners from Denmark, Iceland, Italy, Spain, Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Greece. GeoCamp Iceland leads the project’s dissemination and sustainability work and plays an active role in developing frameworks for mobility coordination and integration. GeoCamp’s involvement builds on extensive national experience in VET and mobility-based education, drawing on the background of Ólafur Jón Arnbjörnsson, director of GeoCamp Iceland. His longstanding work in vocational and adult education, ranging from heading the Comprehensive College of Sudurnes and founding the Icelandic College of Fisheries to supporting applied learning and international cooperation, adds valuable perspective to the project, especially in adapting blended mobility models to smaller VET systems. During the kick-off meeting, partners explored the core components of the project, including:
For GeoCamp and the Reykjanes region, On the Move represents a timely opportunity to strengthen links between education and industry. The project aligns with regional goals to increase access to VET, promote international mobility, and develop training structures that respond to evolving labour market needs, particularly in sectors such as sustainable tourism, energy, fisheries, and environmental sciences. Moreover, the project supports efforts already underway in Reykjanes to enhance outdoor learning, strengthen cooperation between schools and companies, and create pathways for youth engagement in local innovation and sustainability initiatives. As the project moves forward, GeoCamp will lead communication and outreach efforts while also contributing to the national implementation pilot in Iceland, engaging VET institutions, municipalities, and local stakeholders. We look forward to bringing you updates and information about the progress of On the Move in the future.  On the 8th and 9th of May 2025, the Green Advisor partnership gathered in the vibrant city of Reus, Catalonia, for our final Transnational Project Meeting. Hosted by DomSpain at the inspiring Espai Boule, this final encounter brought together all project partners to consolidate results, review our outputs, and discuss the long-term legacy of the project. Over two energising days, we reflected on our joint achievements and fine-tuned the final elements of the Green Advisor Toolkit—a unique set of open educational resources designed to support more environmentally responsible and digitally literate adult education practices across Europe. Key results showcased in Reus included: Environmental Orientation Tool A self-assessment framework for adult education organisations that helps identify gaps and set goals for greener, more sustainable operations. This tool offers practical recommendations and is tailored for easy adaptation across different institutional settings. EU Project Carbon Footprint Calculator A pioneering calculator that allows project teams to assess the environmental impact of EU-funded mobility and cooperation activities. From travel to digital infrastructure, this tool empowers coordinators to measure and reduce their projects’ carbon footprints. Green Digital Orientation Map An interactive and visually engaging roadmap guiding organisations through practical actions for sustainable and digital transition—aligned with EU Green Deal principles and the Digital Education Action Plan. Podcast Series & Learning Resources We’ve developed a set of podcasts, training videos, and downloadable guides demystifying concepts such as carbon budgeting, green procurement, and sustainable coordination. These resources are designed for self-paced learning and integration into adult education training. Green Open Badge System Participants who complete activities and training modules through the Green Advisor platform can earn digital badges recognising sustainability competences—providing a practical way to validate learning and encourage continued professional development. Final Exploitation and Dissemination Strategy During the meeting, we reviewed our outreach strategy and discussed opportunities for scaling our results. Partners agreed on key next steps, including stakeholder engagement, multilingual dissemination, and new potential projects under the Green Advisor banner. The Green Advisor project has been led by a strong and diverse consortium of European organisations:
Each partner brought unique expertise, ranging from green project design and adult education to digital learning, civic engagement, and research. From the collaborative sessions to the cultural activities in Reus, the final meeting was a true celebration of European cooperation. It marked not just the end of a successful Erasmus+ project, but the beginning of new possibilities for sustainable education and greener project management across Europe. All final results will soon be publicly available at www.greenadvisorproject.com. Stay connected and be part of the movement toward responsible, inclusive, and environmentally aware European initiatives. This project has been funded with the support of the European Commission. This publication reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein. Project No: 2022-1-IS01-KA220-ADU-000085530  Outdoor Learning and Sustainability in Cappadocia From 23–29 April 2025, the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia, Türkiye, set the stage for the second Learning, Teaching, and Training Activity (LTTA) of the AURORA project--Advancing Understanding and Respect of Outdoor and Rural Areas. Hosted by Worldwise, this mobility gathered youth and group leaders from Ireland, Finland, Iceland, and Türkiye for a week of immersive outdoor education and intercultural exchange. The programme unfolded across UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient underground cities, and surreal rock formations, turning Cappadocia into an open-air classroom. Activities included hands-on outdoor workshops, sustainability sessions, and augmented reality (AR) storytelling, all designed to foster environmental awareness, digital competence, and peer collaboration. Participants engaged with themes such as conservation, eco-friendly practices, and behavioural change. Highlights included exploring Derinkuyu Underground City, hiking through Ihlara Valley, and visiting Zelve Monastery and Monks Valley. These excursions were not only experiential but also contributed to the development of the AURORA AR platform, capturing footage that will be used to educate other young people across Europe. Cultural evenings hosted by each partner country deepened intercultural understanding and solidarity, while reflection sessions and the certificate ceremony provided recognition of the personal and professional growth achieved during the mobility. The LTTA in Turkey exemplified the spirit of the AURORA project—where outdoor learning meets digital innovation, empowering youth to connect with nature and each other in meaningful ways. Tools and tips for EU Project Managers from the Green Advisor Project  At GeoCamp Iceland, we’ve been busy with the Green Advisor project — an Erasmus+ supported initiative focused on helping individuals and organisations build more sustainable habits, especially in education, travel, and project work. As the project nears completion, several exciting tools and learning resources are now available — and designed with the real needs of project managers, educators, and international mobility organisers in mind. What is Green Advisor? Green Advisor is a European collaboration focused on greening project management. The goal is to support organisations in reducing their environmental impact by providing free, practical tools and training modules that make it easier to make greener decisions — whether you’re planning an Erasmus+ project, running a mobility programme, or coordinating an international partnership. Try the Self-Assessment Tool Want to find out how green your habits really are? The Green Advisor self-assessment tool is now live in beta! It only takes a few minutes and provides instant insights into your personal or professional sustainability practices. Start your assessment here Explore the Sustainable Travel Module For anyone working in international cooperation or planning educational travel, the Sustainable Travel module offers concrete ideas on how to reduce your carbon footprint, plan better, and make more responsible choices when travelling. Access the training module Coming Soon: Carbon Footprint Calculator One of the most exciting tools from the project is still to come — a Carbon Footprint Calculator designed to help project managers measure and improve the environmental impact of their day-to-day activities. Stay tuned for its release later this year. All these tools are part of a comprehensive training programme developed with real-world needs in mind. Whether you’re managing Erasmus+ projects, planning study tours, or simply aiming to reduce your environmental impact, Green Advisor is a great place to start. The Green Advisor project will be completed later this year — until then, we invite you to explore the tools, give them a try, and let us know what you think. Together, we can make greener choices the easy ones.  This presentation, delivered at Afyon Kocatepe University on 11 March 2025, explores the role of geoparks in climate education and sustainability, with a specific focus on Iceland’s Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark. It also examines the Geoschools Project, demonstrating how field-based education can empower students and educators to engage with environmental challenges in meaningful ways. It is a pleasure to be here today at Afyon Kocatepe University to discuss a topic that is not only central to my work but is of increasing global importance--climate education through geoparks and sustainability initiatives. My name is Arnbjörn Ólafsson, and I am the Managing Director of GeoCamp Iceland, an organization that specializes in immersive, hands-on learning experiences in earth sciences, STEAM education, and sustainability. At GeoCamp Iceland, we believe that education must extend beyond the classroom. Climate change is a complex and urgent challenge, but understanding it requires more than just theoretical knowledge. To truly grasp its impact, students and educators need to see the changes happening in real time, feel the landscapes shifting beneath their feet, and experience the forces shaping our planet firsthand. Iceland, with its unique combination of volcanic activity, glacial retreat, and renewable energy innovation, provides an ideal setting for this kind of experiential learning. Today, I will discuss how geoparks, and particularly Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, serve as living laboratories for climate education. We will explore how Iceland’s geology, climate, and energy systems can offer valuable lessons for sustainability worldwide. I will also introduce the Geoschools Project, an initiative designed to enhance climate education through field-based learning across different European geoparks. Finally, I will share insights into how we can better integrate outdoor education and international collaboration to equip future generations with the tools and knowledge to respond to climate change effectively. The goal of this talk is not just to highlight the challenges we face, but to show how education can be a powerful driver of action. The more we connect students and professionals to the landscapes, science, and real-world examples of sustainability, the more equipped they will be to drive meaningful change. Introduction In a world where climate change presents one of the most significant challenges of our time, education must move beyond textbooks and classrooms. It must be immersive, hands-on, and grounded in real-world experiences. GeoCamp Iceland was founded on this very principle, welcoming students, teachers, and researchers to Iceland to engage in place-based learning focused on geology, earth sciences, renewable energy, STEM, environmental issues, and climate change. To truly understand the complexity of our changing planet, learners need to see, feel, and experience the forces shaping it. By stepping onto a glacier, witnessing volcanic activity, or exploring geothermal landscapes, students develop a deeper and more personal connection to the processes that define our environment. At GeoCamp Iceland, the approach is centered on integrating geoscience, sustainability, and outdoor education, making climate education more engaging and effective. This philosophy aligns closely with the Geoschools Project, which highlights the essential role of geoparks in climate education and sustainability. Iceland – The Land of Fire and Ice Iceland is often described as the “Land of Fire and Ice,” a name that reflects the dramatic forces constantly shaping its landscapes. It is a country where volcanic activity and glaciation coexist, creating one of the most geologically dynamic environments on Earth. This unique setting offers invaluable learning opportunities, allowing educators to demonstrate geological change in real time. The country sits atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are continuously drifting apart. This geological activity, combined with Iceland’s position above a magma plume, fuels over 30 active volcanic systems, frequent earthquakes, and an abundance of geothermal energy. Some eruptions, such as the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption, have had global consequences, while others, like the recent eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula, remind us that Iceland’s landscape is in a constant state of transformation. While volcanic activity builds new land, Iceland’s glaciers actively shape the terrain through erosion. These ice masses, covering approximately 11% of the country, are not only geological forces but also vital climate indicators. They preserve thousands of years of atmospheric data within their ice layers, providing crucial records of past climate conditions. However, the reality is stark—since the 19th century, Iceland’s glaciers have lost 16% of their volume. At the current rate, they could disappear within the next 150 years. The loss of these glaciers is not just an environmental issue; it has direct consequences for rising sea levels, shifting ecosystems, and the livelihoods of communities that rely on glacial meltwater. Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark – A Living Laboratory GeoCamp Iceland is based in Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, a region that serves as a natural laboratory where geology, sustainability, and climate resilience intersect. Geoparks are not merely sites of geological significance; they are dynamic spaces where education, conservation, and community engagement come together to deepen our understanding of the planet. Reykjanes Geopark is of particular interest because it sits directly on the boundary between two continents, where the Earth’s crust is actively pulling apart. This makes it an ideal setting for climate and energy education, providing firsthand exposure to volcanic activity, geothermal landscapes, and the forces of plate tectonics. The region also offers a model for sustainable energy, as geothermal power is harnessed directly from the Earth, demonstrating how natural resources can be used responsibly to support a low-carbon future. Geoparks like Reykjanes help us understand Earth’s dynamic processes, but they also reveal the accelerating impact of climate change. While volcanic activity continuously forms new land, glaciers—historical archives of climate patterns—are disappearing. This contrast highlights the dual forces shaping Iceland today: the natural geological changes that have occurred over millennia and the human-driven disruptions that are unfolding at an unprecedented rate. As glaciers melt and landscapes shift, Iceland serves both as a warning and as a model for how societies can adapt, develop sustainable energy solutions, and build resilience in the face of climate challenges. The Climate Crisis: A Challenge for All Climate change is no longer a distant or future problem—it is happening now. Iceland provides a stark case study of both its impact and the potential strategies for mitigation and adaptation. Glacial retreat is occurring at an accelerating pace, contributing to rising sea levels and altering ecosystems. As the weight of ice decreases, the land beneath it rises, which in turn increases seismic and volcanic activity. Climate change is also affecting weather patterns, ocean currents, and biodiversity, causing shifts that extend far beyond Iceland and into the global climate system. Despite these challenges, Iceland demonstrates how societies can take proactive steps toward climate resilience. The country has shifted almost entirely to renewable energy, invested heavily in climate research, and integrated sustainability into its educational systems. By studying Iceland’s transition, other countries can gain insights into how to navigate the energy transition, reduce carbon emissions, and prepare for the changing environment. Renewable Energy in Iceland – A Model for the Future Iceland is a global leader in renewable energy, with nearly 100% of its electricity coming from geothermal and hydropower sources. This transition has allowed the country to drastically reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. Today, 90% of homes in Iceland are heated using geothermal energy, and only 14% of the nation’s total energy use comes from fossil fuels, primarily for transportation and the fishing fleet. To address this remaining dependency, Iceland is now investing in hydrogen fuel technology, electric transport systems, and sustainable aviation fuels, with the goal of becoming entirely energy self-sufficient. While Iceland’s energy model may not be directly replicable in all regions, it serves as a powerful example of how large-scale transitions to sustainability are achievable when governments, industries, and educators work together. The success of this model demonstrates that a commitment to renewable energy and climate-conscious policies can pave the way for a more sustainable future. Geoschools: Climate Education in Action One of the greatest barriers to tackling climate change is the gap between knowledge and action. This is where climate education plays a critical role. The Geoschools project seeks to bridge this gap by moving learning beyond the classroom and into real-world settings. Through field-based education, students gain a direct understanding of climate change by tracking glacial retreat, participating in citizen science projects, and exploring the cultural and ecological impacts of environmental change. A powerful example of this type of education is the story of Okjökull, Iceland’s first glacier to be declared dead due to climate change. In 2019, a plaque was placed at the site, bearing a message that serves as a warning and a call to action: “We know what is happening. We know what must be done. Only you will know if we did it.” This poignant reminder underscores the urgency of climate education and the responsibility we all share in shaping the future. The Path Forward – What Can We Do? The question is no longer whether we can address climate change, but how quickly and effectively we are willing to act. Everyone has a role to play in reducing waste, using resources wisely, and promoting responsible tourism. Climate education must remain at the forefront of this movement, ensuring that young people are equipped with the knowledge and tools to become active participants in sustainability efforts. Through initiatives like Geoschools, UNESCO Geoparks, and place-based education programs, we can empower the next generation to move beyond awareness and toward meaningful action. As the saying goes, “No one can change everything, but everyone can do something.” A Call to Action We stand at a defining moment. Climate change is accelerating, but so is our ability to respond. The choices we make today will shape the landscapes, communities, and opportunities of tomorrow. Education must go beyond simply imparting knowledge—it must inspire, challenge, and equip people with the tools to create change. As educators and professionals, we must ask ourselves: If education holds the key to change, how do we unlock its full potential? At GeoCamp Iceland, we believe the answer lies in how we teach, how we inspire, and how we connect knowledge to action. By using outdoor education, school initiatives, and projects like Geoschools, we can ensure that learning is not just about studying the past—it is about shaping the future. Thank You Arnbjörn Ólafsson, GeoCamp Iceland Geoschools Project – Final Conference, 11th March 2025, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey Download Presentation Slides [PDF]   Staff and board members of GeoCamp Iceland took part in the final meeting of the Erasmus+ Geoschools Project in Afyon, Turkey on 11 - 13 March 2025. The meeting brought together educators and geoscientists from Iceland, Poland, Romania, and Turkey. Over the course of three days, participants reflected on the project’s impact, shared best practices, and explored how outdoor education—especially through geoparks and place-based learning—can help inspire climate action in schools. At GeoCamp Iceland, we believe that education should be immersive, hands-on, and deeply connected to the natural world. This philosophy was at the heart of our involvement in the Geoschools Project, where we worked alongside international partners to create new educational tools, lesson plans, and field-based learning experiences that integrate geoscience with sustainability and climate awareness. Moving Learning Beyond the Classroom The Geoschools Project was developed to address one of the biggest challenges in climate education—the disconnect between knowledge and action. Too often, climate change is taught in isolation, as abstract theories in a classroom. But as we see in Iceland, climate change is a real, observable phenomenon, shaping the landscapes around us. From the retreating glaciers to active volcanic eruptions, Iceland serves as a living laboratory where students can witness environmental changes firsthand. Our work within Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark has shown that when students experience science in action, they not only understand the concepts more deeply but also feel empowered to make a difference. Through the Geoschools Project, we applied this same philosophy on a broader scale, working with partners to create field-based educational experiences that can be replicated in geoparks and natural areas across Europe. A Collaborative Effort for Geoscience Education The final meeting in Afyon was an opportunity to assess the project’s achievements and discuss its long-term impact. The event began with a conference on innovative teaching methods for climate change, hosted at Afyon Kocatepe University. Here, we presented our experiences from Iceland, showcasing how geoparks can serve as powerful educational environments. Throughout the conference, the project partners shared their experiences of using geoparks, geological formations, and local landscapes as outdoor classrooms. In his keynote presentation, Arnbjörn Ólafsson, Managing Director of GeoCamp Iceland, emphasized the need for place-based learningin climate education. He highlighted how outdoor experiences—whether studying volcanic activity, analyzing rock formations, or visiting renewable energy sites—allow students to connect science with real-world challenges. Drawing on Iceland’s sustainable energy model, he demonstrated how education can help young people understand both the problems of climate change and the solutions that exist today. Exploring Kula Geopark: A Model for Outdoor Learning The second day of the meeting took participants to Kula Salihli UNESCO Global Geopark, a stunning natural site known for its volcanic landscapes, basaltic columns, and rich geological diversity. This excursion was a reminder of why geoparks are ideal environments for teaching Earth sciences. During a guided walking tour, participants explored Kula’s famous Fairy Chimneys, learning how these rock formations were shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity and erosion. The visit reinforced the project’s central idea, to encourage teachers to collaborate with local natural sites—whether geoparks, nature reserves, or heritage sites—to create meaningful, real-world learning experiences. As seen in Turkey, these collaborations not only enrich science education but also foster a sense of environmental responsibility among students. A Lasting Impact on Climate Education As we wrap up the Geoschools project, there is a shared understanding that while this was the final project meeting, it was just the beginning of a much larger effort to redefine how climate education is taught in schools. At GeoCamp Iceland, we remain committed to empowering educators with the tools they need to bring science to life. The Geoschools Project has reaffirmed what we have always believed--that the best way to teach about our planet is to experience it firsthand. We encourage teachers everywhere to look beyond textbooks and classrooms and to embrace the power of outdoor education. Whether through geoparks, nature reserves, or even local green spaces, the opportunities for immersive, hands-on learning are endless. By integrating geosciences with sustainability and climate action, we can inspire the next generation of environmental leaders, ensuring that students not only understand the science behind climate change but also feel equipped to take action. As we move forward, we look forward to expanding our network of educators, scientists, and schools that share our vision for a more engaging and impactful approach to climate education. Because education should not just inform—it should inspire.  GeoCamp Iceland organised a workshop on 20 February 2025 with representatives from all youth councils in the Reykjanes region as part of the Erasmus+ funded AURORA Project. Around 25 young people gathered for a dynamic workshop encourraging participants to reflect on the role of outdoor learning in their education and personal development. Through engaging group discussions, the youth explored key questions from the AURORA project guidebook, sharing their perspectives on how learning outside the classroom impacts their connection to nature, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. They highlighted memorable outdoor learning experiences, from fjord excursions to wildlife observation, and discussed the advantages of learning in natural settings compared to traditional indoor education. Participants emphasised the benefits of fresh air, physical activity, and hands-on learning in making education more engaging and meaningful. While the enthusiasm for outdoor learning was evident, the discussion also addressed barriers, such as unpredictable weather and limited infrastructure for structured outdoor education. However, the young participants agreed that these challenges could be overcome with proper planning, better facilities, and a shift in mindset, viewing the outdoors as an extension of the classroom rather than an occasional learning space. Technology’s role in outdoor education was another topic of debate. While digital tools can enhance learning - such as using apps to identify plants and wildlife - there was a consensus that excessive screen time can distract from the immersive experience of being in nature. The importance of balancing technology with direct engagement in the environment was a recurring theme. The workshop concluded with a strong message from the youth. They are eager for more opportunities to learn outdoors. They called for outdoor education to be integrated into school schedules more regularly and for decision-makers to prioritise the development of outdoor learning spaces. Their enthusiasm and advocacy reflect a broader shift towards education that is active, experiential, and deeply connected to the natural world. The insights gathered during this session will contribute to the ongoing work of the AURORA project, helping shape strategies for promoting outdoor learning among young people. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to explore how outdoor education can empower youth and foster a stronger connection to the environment. After two years of collaboration, creativity, and dedication, the HEDA project has successfully concluded, leaving a lasting impact on educators, students, and stakeholders across Europe. Funded by the Erasmus+ programme, HEDA brought together partners from Iceland, Italy, Greece, Belgium, Serbia, and Poland to explore how theatre, literature, and visual arts can transform the way students engage with civic and social issues.
The project achieved its ambitious goals by equipping teachers with innovative methodologies to address themes such as democracy, human rights, and social justice. Through hands-on workshops, training sessions, and an accessible e-learning platform, HEDA provided educators with tools to bring these critical topics to life in their classrooms. Over 200 teachers were trained, and the methodology reached thousands of students, inspiring dialogue and fostering critical thinking in schools across Europe. Key outputs of the HEDA project included:
Partner schools have committed to continuing the use of HEDA methodologies, and some are already working on expanding the approach through new initiatives and collaborations. In Iceland, the project has inspired an active network of educators, contributing to broader efforts to implement all schools in Reykjanes as UNESCO schools. Similarly, in Italy, participating schools are exploring new Erasmus+ proposals to build on HEDA’s foundation. So while the HEDA project has officially concluded, its influence will continue to grow. The project materials remain freely accessible on the HEDA website, ensuring that educators worldwide can integrate these techniques into their teaching. The HEDA partnership thanks all participants, educators, and stakeholders for their invaluable contributions. Together, we have reimagined citizenship education, creating a pathway for young people to engage deeply with the issues that shape our society. Though this chapter has ended, the spirit of HEDA lives on in classrooms and communities across Europe. For project results please visit our website: www.heda-project.eu  On 29 October 2024, the final Transnational Partner Meeting (TPM) for the Upcycling Education project took place in Reus, Spain. Hosted by Open Europe at Espai Boule, the gathering marked a celebratory conclusion to this impactful Erasmus+ initiative, which brought together partners from across Europe, including GeoCamp Iceland. The project aimed to promote sustainable education and practical learning, developing tools that foster eco-awareness and creativity for educators, students, and families. The meeting provided an opportunity to review the project’s most significant outcomes and deliverables. Among the key achievements was the development of educational resources and course materials on sustainable education, soon to be available as interactive flipbooks. NEFINIA, a key project partner, introduced plans to transition all resources—including the conceptual framework and blended course—into this accessible, user-friendly format. The digital flipbooks will provide streamlined, cohesive content for educators, making the materials easy to integrate into diverse learning environments. The project also delivered a series of engaging webinars and promotional videos, now available on YouTube, with subtitles in multiple languages. These videos offer a dynamic introduction to upcycling and sustainability concepts. Each partner committed to contributing national webinar reports to document the project’s impact, allowing for a comprehensive record of engagement across partner countries. The Recommendations Guide, developed to support educators and families, is another highlight of the project. Complete with national podcasts discussing practical approaches to upcycling, the guide provides an engaging platform for sustainable education. The guide’s flipbook format will feature the podcasts and insights, creating an interactive, visually engaging resource for educators and families. As the project’s final step, the project partners will compile a comprehensive report detailing all deliverables and the overall impact on sustainable education. This report will provide a lasting record of the project’s achievements and open doors for future funding opportunities. We look forward to sharing the information and project outcomes with you within the next few weeks. The meeting closed with reflections on the project’s successes and discussions on future applications of its resources, followed by a celebratory dinner. GeoCamp Iceland is proud to have been part of the project and looks forward to seeing how the Upcycling Education resources will inspire sustainable learning in Iceland and beyond. Stay tuned for updates on how GeoCamp Iceland will continue to incorporate these valuable tools into its educational programmes. For more information please visit www.upcyclingeducation.eu  GeoCamp Iceland participated in the third Geoschool Erasmus+ project meeting, hosted by the Târgu Jiu Primary School in Romania 11 - 15 October 2024. The meeting brought together students, teachers, and project partners from across Europe to explore innovative ways to integrate geoscience and climate education into school curricula while fostering intercultural collaboration. The meeting commenced with a reception at the County Library “Christian Tell,” where local school and municipal authorities warmly welcomed participants. Partner schools presented their institutions, followed by team-building activities and a visit to the County Museum “Alexandru Ștefulescu,” which offered fascinating insights into paleontology and fossils. The day concluded with a visit to the iconic Endless Column Park. Exploring Hațeg UNESCO Global Geopark and Transylvanian Heritage On the second day, participants journeyed to Hațeg UNESCO Global Geopark in Southern Transylvania. This geopark is renowned for its fossil-rich deposits, including the discovery of more than 10 species of dwarf dinosaurs from 65 million years ago and fossilized dinosaur eggs. The group later visited Corvin’s Castle in Hunedoara, a magnificent renaissance fortress that provided a glimpse into Romania’s rich history. Day three featured a major conference at the Constantin Brâncuși University Hall, focusing on the conservation and sustainability of geoparks. Local researchers and scientists presented key topics, and each project partner shared insights about their respective UNESCO Global Geoparks. In the afternoon, participants toured Târgu Jiu’s old town with the mayor, who shared the story of Constantin Brâncuși’s celebrated artwork “The Table of Silence” in the Central Park. The day concluded with a workshop led by Romanian partners, during which students created posters and slogans about climate change, furthering discussions on environmental responsibility. Nature and Action in Baia de Fier The fourth day took the group to Baia de Fier, where they explored the Woman’s Cave. This remarkable site houses significant findings, including the skeleton of a cave bear and a human skull, highlighting coexistence between Homo sapiens and Neanderthals. In the afternoon, participants joined local students to plant approximately 100 trees in the newly established Erasmus Forest, contributing to environmental preservation and community engagement. The meeting concluded with a ceremony where participants received certificates recognizing their contributions. The week’s activities fostered stronger relationships among partner schools and enriched the Geoschool Erasmus+ project. Outcomes included the development of valuable resources like board games and lesson plans designed to enhance geoscience education across Europe. As the Geoschool project continues to promote geoscience and climate education, the next mobility is planned for March 2025 in Turkey, further advancing its mission to connect students and educators worldwide. |
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GeoCamp Iceland is an educational project dedicated to increasing knowledge and understanding in natural sciences with practical and active learning. We develop educational content, student and teacher guides and curricula, organize and receive international study groups focusing on natural sciences, environmental challenges, climate change and STEM education.
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