Welcome to Planetwise
NURTURING RESILIENT CAREERS IN ECO-FRIENDLY PRACTICES
Who are we
The Social Innovation and Cohesion Institute is an organization of civil society, established to help individuals, communities and institutions to develop their skills, improve their performance and share knowledge to be able to meet the challenges of society and thus contribute actively to the development of a European area of skills and qualifications.
The Social Innovation and Cohesion Institute is working to bring about social change for the benefit of citizens in the context of development of local, regional and European society. It focuses on the promotion of equal learning opportunities, in promoting human rights, cultivating the spirit of entrepreneurship and the development of people’s abilities, promotes intercultural dialogue, knowledge exchange and European awareness with the active participation of young people and adults in projects relating to mobility, entrepreneurship education, professional and personal development.
About Us
PLANETWISE
PLANETWISE was a 14-day initiative in Thessaloniki, complemented by 4 days of outdoor activities in Kozani, focused on youth development within the framework of Erasmus+ Youth Accreditation. Targeting young people, particularly those facing unemployment and fewer opportunities, the project blended educational workshops with hands-on experiences to enhance skills in employability, sustainability, and active citizenship. The outdoor component in Kozani added an experiential layer, fostering environmental awareness and practical learning, while encouraging leadership and community engagement.
Objectives
Enhancing Valued Youth Employability & Entrepreneurship (OB1): PLANETWISE emerged as a resounding success, achieving multifaceted outcomes aligned with its core objectives. The project aimed to foster a transformative hub for youth workers, focusing on resilience, humanitarianism, and eco-friendly careers. The participants gained insights into strategies for enhancing youth employability and cultivating entrepreneurial skills. Success stories and real-world examples provided tangible pathways for participants to bolster their professional standing
Investing in Competences Development & Youth Empowerment (OB2): Kozani’s segment of the project focused on outdoor activities as an educational tool, fostering personal development and empowerment. Participants acquired competencies in utilizing nature-based learning approaches, equipping them to empower the youth in their communities.
Promoting Digitalisation of Youth Work & Digital Competences of Youth (OB3): The dedicated Digital Competence Workshops equipped participants with essential skills for navigating the digital landscape. This digital- savvy approach aimed to enhance their capacity to engage with youth in a technologically evolving world.
Fostering Social Inclusion & Equality (OB4): The project actively addressed social inclusion and equality through role-playing exercises, simulations, and intercultural exchange activities. Participants gained a deeper understanding of societal prejudices and learned to champion inclusivity in their youth work.
Encouraging Environmental Protection & Sustainability (OB5): The outdoor activities in Kozani, coupled with workshops on environmental responsibility, instilled a sense of environmental awareness among participants. They grasped the significance of eco-friendly practices, aligning with the project’s commitment to sustainability.
e-Good Practice Handbook
Nurturing Resilient Careers in eco-friendly Practices: This Good Practice Handbook serves as a testament to the success of the PLANETWISE project, encapsulating its achievements and offering a wealth of insights. With a laser focus on youth resilience, eco-friendly career paths, and collaborative initiatives, the handbook aims to equip youth workers, educators, and policymakers with practical resources. Through a structured exploration of various domains, the handbook endeavors to inspire and guide the next generation toward resilient, environmentally conscious careers. As we delve into the following sections, the richness of the PLANETWISE project unfolds, providing a blueprint for sustainable and impactful youth development.
PLANETWISE Handbook: Navigating Sustainable Career Paths
The PLANETWISE Handbook is a comprehensive guide designed to inspire and equip young people for eco-conscious career pathways and active roles in sustainability. This resource brings together insights from the PLANETWISE project, offering tools, case studies, and actionable steps for engaging in green jobs, community-based sustainability initiatives, and environmental leadership. From understanding the essentials of sustainable development to exploring digital tools for environmental advocacy, the handbook empowers youth to transform passion for the planet into impactful, lifelong careers.
Empowering Youth for a Greener Tomorrow is a comprehensive handbook designed to inspire and equip young people, educators, and youth workers to take meaningful action toward sustainability. Developed within the Erasmus+ PLANETWISE project, it integrates non-formal education methods, innovative learning modules, and practical tools that connect environmental responsibility with digital transformation, social entrepreneurship, and inclusive community leadership. Through hands-on activities, real-world case studies, and reflective practice, the handbook encourages youth to become proactive agents of change, bridging awareness with action and fostering a collective vision for a just, inclusive, and sustainable future.
Modules 2022
PLANETWISE has made significant strides in fostering youth empowerment, sustainability, and social inclusion through its six thematic modules, each addressing specific challenges aligned with the project’s objectives and EU Youth Goals. Since its inception in 2023, PLANETWISE has focused on enhancing employability and entrepreneurship, particularly for NEETs and disadvantaged youth, by promoting eco-friendly careers and training in sustainable practices. The project has emphasized lifelong learning through outdoor education, building resilience and leadership skills, and strengthening digital literacy to meet the demands of a technology-driven world. Its commitment to social inclusion is evident in its focus on diversity, equality, and creating accessible opportunities for all youth, including those from underrepresented backgrounds. With a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, PLANETWISE has empowered young people to adopt green practices, aligning with the EU’s vision of a resource-efficient, low-carbon economy. The project’s collaborative and adaptable approach, demonstrated through its five-year span and response to emerging challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, highlights its dedication to impactful and lasting change. Through annual Good Practice e-Books and a digital Youth Repository, PLANETWISE ensures continuous knowledge sharing and skill development, enhancing the reach and relevance of its initiatives. By integrating eco-friendly careers, outdoor education, digital competence, and social inclusion into a holistic framework, the project not only addresses immediate youth challenges but also builds a foundation for sustainable, inclusive progress, positioning empowered young people as drivers of positive change in their communities. In specific:
Empowering Future Leaders through EU Youth Goals and Sustainable Careers
This module focuses on cultivating leadership skills and eco-conscious career pathways for young people, guided by the EU Youth Goals. By exploring sustainable career options and acquiring entrepreneurial skills, participants are empowered to become leaders in green industries, helping drive Europe’s transition to a resilient, low-carbon economy.
Harnessing Digital Technology for Eco-Friendly Career Development
In this module, participants learn to leverage digital tools and platforms for professional growth in eco-friendly sectors. Training covers essential digital competencies, from navigating remote work environments to using technology in sustainable business practices, ensuring participants are equipped for the digital and green demands of the future job market.
Fostering Green Practices for a Sustainable Workforce
This module instills practical knowledge of green practices, preparing youth for sustainability-focused roles. Through hands-on learning and environmental workshops, participants explore how eco-conscious decisions in the workplace can contribute to resource conservation, pollution reduction, and the creation of sustainable communities.
Virtual Collaboration and Networking for Environmental Innovation
Designed to harness the power of virtual connectivity, this module teaches participants effective online collaboration techniques for advancing environmental initiatives. Through virtual networking, participants connect with global peers and experts to share ideas and co-create innovative solutions to today’s pressing environmental challenges.
Youth Engagement in Democratic Life for a Sustainable Future
In this module, youth are empowered to become active citizens, understanding the importance of democratic participation in achieving sustainability goals. Through workshops and role-play scenarios, participants gain skills to advocate for environmental and social issues, ensuring their voices contribute to shaping a greener, more inclusive society.
Driving Change in Green Policies through Active Participation
This module equips youth with the knowledge and tools to influence policy on environmental issues. Participants learn the fundamentals of environmental advocacy, how to engage with local and EU policymakers, and strategies for campaigning on green policies, empowering them to drive legislative change for a sustainable future.
Modules 2023
The PLANETWISE Modules are an interconnected series designed to empower youth with skills and knowledge across essential themes such as eco-conscious careers, digital competencies, sustainable practices, and active civic engagement. These modules aim to equip youth workers and young leaders with practical tools and insights aligned with the EU Youth Goals, focusing on fostering employability, inclusivity, and active citizenship. Through experiential activities and digital resources, participants will explore transformative green practices, enhance their digital skills, and learn the importance of participating in democratic processes to build a sustainable future.
Each module blends theoretical learning with practical applications, from nature-based education promoting resilience to digital workshops that prepare youth to leverage technology for social impact. Additionally, interactive sessions will guide participants in addressing social inclusion and equality, ensuring all youth, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to their communities. By engaging with these modules, participants join a broader mission of creating a greener, more inclusive Europe, where young people are equipped and inspired to lead in their communities and beyond.
Empowering Future Leaders through EU Youth Goals and Sustainable Careers
This module focuses on cultivating leadership skills and eco-conscious career pathways for young people, guided by the EU Youth Goals. By exploring sustainable career options and acquiring entrepreneurial skills, participants are empowered to become leaders in green industries, helping drive Europe’s transition to a resilient, low-carbon economy.
Harnessing Digital Technology for Eco-Friendly Career Development
In this module, participants learn to leverage digital tools and platforms for professional growth in eco-friendly sectors. Training covers essential digital competencies, from navigating remote work environments to using technology in sustainable business practices, ensuring participants are equipped for the digital and green demands of the future job market.
Fostering Green Practices for a Sustainable Workforce
This module instills practical knowledge of green practices, preparing youth for sustainability-focused roles. Through hands-on learning and environmental workshops, participants explore how eco-conscious decisions in the workplace can contribute to resource conservation, pollution reduction, and the creation of sustainable communities.
Virtual Collaboration and Networking for Environmental Innovation
Designed to harness the power of virtual connectivity, this module teaches participants effective online collaboration techniques for advancing environmental initiatives. Through virtual networking, participants connect with global peers and experts to share ideas and co-create innovative solutions to today’s pressing environmental challenges.
Youth Engagement in Democratic Life for a Sustainable Future
In this module, youth are empowered to become active citizens, understanding the importance of democratic participation in achieving sustainability goals. Through workshops and role-play scenarios, participants gain skills to advocate for environmental and social issues, ensuring their voices contribute to shaping a greener, more inclusive society.
Driving Change in Green Policies through Active Participation
This module equips youth with the knowledge and tools to influence policy on environmental issues. Participants learn the fundamentals of environmental advocacy, how to engage with local and EU policymakers, and strategies for campaigning on green policies, empowering them to drive legislative change for a sustainable future.
Modules 2024
The following modules are designed to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to drive environmental and social change in their communities. Through a blend of practical workshops, real-world case studies, and collaborative projects, each module offers a unique focus, from circular economy and climate action to digital skills, advocacy, and nature-inspired leadership. Whether you’re an aspiring changemaker, educator, or community organizer, these modules provide a comprehensive foundation for creating sustainable, impactful solutions in a rapidly changing world.
Each module blends theoretical learning with practical applications, from nature-based education promoting resilience to digital workshops that prepare youth to leverage technology for social impact. Additionally, interactive sessions will guide participants in addressing social inclusion and equality, ensuring all youth, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to their communities. By engaging with these modules, participants join a broader mission of creating a greener, more inclusive Europe, where young people are equipped and inspired to lead in their communities and beyond.
Module 1: Circular Economy and Innovation in Practice
This module introduces participants to the principles of the circular economy, encouraging them to rethink how materials and products are designed, used, and reused. Through hands-on workshops, local waste audits, and creative prototyping, learners explore how innovation and sustainability intersect in real-world contexts. By mapping material flows, experimenting with closed-loop design, and pitching their own circular solutions, participants gain the practical tools and entrepreneurial mindset needed to turn waste into value and ideas into impact.
Module 2: Climate Action and Community Self-Organization
Focusing on local empowerment and grassroots engagement, this module equips young people to design and implement community-based climate initiatives. Participants learn how to map stakeholders, set measurable goals, and plan collective actions such as urban gardens or tree-planting drives. Combining project management with environmental awareness, the module demonstrates how small, coordinated efforts can generate measurable change, strengthen community ties, and contribute to broader climate resilience.
Module 3: Social Entrepreneurship with an Environmental Focus
This module empowers participants to combine business innovation with ecological and social responsibility. Through interactive exercises and mentoring sessions, learners develop business ideas that generate environmental value while remaining financially viable. They explore sustainable revenue models, ethical business structures, and the essentials of impact-driven entrepreneurship. By the end, participants have drafted their own one-page business plans and gained insight into how social enterprises can balance profit with purpose.
Module 4: Digital Skills for the Green Transition
Bridging technology and sustainability, this module enhances participants’ digital literacy while showcasing how digital tools can accelerate environmental action. Learners collaborate on virtual projects, analyze open environmental data, and design creative awareness campaigns using social media and e-learning platforms. By integrating innovation, communication, and technology, the module empowers participants to become digitally fluent changemakers capable of amplifying their sustainability initiatives across networks and borders.
Module 5: Democratic Participation & Environmental Advocacy
This module highlights the vital link between civic engagement and environmental progress. Participants explore how democratic systems, policy processes, and advocacy campaigns shape sustainable development. Through simulations, workshops, and creative communication exercises, they learn to frame compelling messages, engage with policymakers, and mobilize communities around environmental causes. The module culminates in the design and presentation of a local advocacy campaign, fostering active citizenship and informed leadership.
Module 6: Leadership Models Inspired by Nature
Drawing lessons from ecosystems and natural patterns, this module redefines leadership through the lens of collaboration, adaptability, and balance. Participants engage in outdoor challenges, team-building activities, and reflective sessions that connect nature’s wisdom to human dynamics. By observing how living systems thrive through cooperation and resilience, learners cultivate their own leadership style rooted in empathy, trust, and sustainability. The module encourages participants to lead with authenticity and purpose—guided by the principles of the natural world.
Modules 2025
The PLANETWISE 2025 Educational Modules have been developed to strengthen the knowledge, competences, and practical capacities of youth workers in promoting environmental sustainability, green employability, social inclusion, and active youth participation. Designed as complementary learning resources to the PLANETWISE training programme, the six modules provide a comprehensive educational framework that connects sustainability challenges with innovative youth work methodologies, professional development opportunities, and community engagement. The modules explore key dimensions of the green transition, including climate literacy, sustainable economic development, green skills, environmental justice, experiential education, digital innovation, and youth-led environmental action. Particular emphasis is placed on equipping youth workers with practical approaches to engage young people, especially those with fewer opportunities, in meaningful sustainability-related learning experiences and initiatives. Through theoretical knowledge, practical examples, non-formal education methodologies, and action-oriented approaches, the educational programme encourages participants to understand environmental challenges and translate their learning into concrete activities within their organisations and local communities. The modules also support the development of transferable competences, critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and environmental responsibility, contributing to the preparation of young people for an increasingly green and evolving labour market. Together, the six modules aim to empower youth workers to become facilitators of sustainable change, promote inclusive access to green opportunities, and encourage young people to participate actively in shaping environmentally responsible and resilient European communities.
Climate Literacy, Sustainability and the European Green Transition
This module introduces participants to the fundamental concepts of climate change, environmental sustainability, and Europe’s transition towards a greener economy and society. It explores the causes and consequences of major environmental challenges, the principles of sustainable development, and the importance of integrating environmental responsibility into everyday decisions and professional practices.
Particular attention is given to European and international sustainability frameworks, including the European Green Deal, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and the European Youth Goals. The module also examines the principles of the circular economy, climate misinformation, and the importance of evidence-based environmental education.
By exploring these topics, youth workers develop a stronger understanding of their role in promoting climate awareness, encouraging sustainable lifestyles, and empowering young people to become informed and responsible participants in the green transition.
Green Skills, Sustainable Careers and Youth Entrepreneurship
This module examines the relationship between environmental sustainability, employability, and entrepreneurial development, highlighting the growing importance of green competences in the European labour market. It introduces participants to emerging green employment sectors, future-oriented professional skills, and the opportunities created by the transition towards environmentally responsible economic activities.
The module also explores sustainable entrepreneurship, innovative business approaches, and the potential of social innovation to address environmental and community challenges. Particular attention is given to the role of youth workers in supporting young people’s professional aspirations, strengthening their entrepreneurial mindsets, and helping them recognise opportunities for sustainable career development.
Through practical examples and career-oriented learning approaches, participants gain knowledge and guidance tools to support young people in developing green skills, exploring emerging professional pathways, and transforming environmentally responsible ideas into realistic initiatives.
Environmental Justice, Social Inclusion and Equal Opportunities
This module explores the social dimensions of environmental sustainability, focusing on the relationship between climate change, inequality, environmental justice, and access to green opportunities. It examines how environmental challenges disproportionately affect vulnerable communities and how socioeconomic circumstances, geographical barriers, gender inequalities, and other forms of exclusion can influence young people’s participation in the green transition.
Participants are introduced to inclusive educational approaches that promote accessibility, diversity, equal participation, and meaningful engagement in sustainability-related activities. Particular emphasis is placed on recognising the needs of young people with fewer opportunities and developing appropriate strategies to reduce barriers to environmental education and green employability.
The module strengthens youth workers’ capacity to create inclusive learning environments, promote environmental justice, and encourage young people from diverse backgrounds to participate in community initiatives and benefit from emerging green opportunities.
Experiential Learning and Nature-Based Education for Sustainable Youth Work
This module focuses on the educational potential of outdoor learning, experiential methodologies, and direct engagement with natural environments. It introduces participants to non-formal education approaches that connect theoretical sustainability knowledge with real-life experiences, environmental observation, and community-based learning.
The module explores nature-based educational activities, sustainable tourism, responsible natural resource management, and the use of local environmental practices as learning opportunities. It also examines how youth workers can design safe, accessible, and inclusive outdoor activities that encourage reflection, collaboration, problem-solving, and environmental awareness.
Drawing inspiration from the PLANETWISE study visits and practical learning experiences, the module provides guidance on transforming environmental observations into meaningful educational activities that can be adapted to different local contexts and youth groups.
Digital Green Youth Work, Environmental Communication and Active Citizenship
This module examines how digital technologies and innovative communication approaches can strengthen environmental education, youth engagement, and active citizenship. It introduces youth workers to digital platforms, online educational tools, and participatory communication methods that can support sustainability learning and encourage young people to engage with environmental challenges.
Particular attention is given to digital storytelling, environmental awareness campaigns, responsible technology use, and the role of social media in communicating sustainability-related messages. The module also explores the connection between digital participation, democratic engagement, and environmental advocacy, highlighting the potential of young people to influence positive change within their communities.
Through these topics, participants strengthen their ability to design interactive digital learning experiences, develop youth-led communication initiatives, and encourage informed, responsible, and inclusive participation in environmental and civic activities.
Designing, Implementing and Evaluating Green Youth Initiatives
The final module focuses on the practical application of knowledge and competences acquired throughout the PLANETWISE educational programme. It supports youth workers in transforming sustainability-related learning into structured educational activities, youth-led environmental projects, and community-based initiatives.
Participants explore the main stages of developing green youth activities, including identifying local environmental needs, establishing learning objectives, selecting appropriate non-formal education methodologies, planning implementation, and encouraging meaningful youth participation. The module also introduces approaches for monitoring learning outcomes, assessing environmental and community impact, and ensuring the continuity of educational initiatives.
Particular emphasis is placed on action planning, dissemination, and the transfer of learning into everyday youth work practices. By completing this module, youth workers are better prepared to design and facilitate inclusive sustainability activities, support young people’s environmental initiatives, and contribute to long-term positive change within their organisations and local communities.
Experiences Video
