| SP.1 | SP.2 – Nature Lab: Youth and Elders Co-Design for the Planet | |
| Partner organization (who designed it) | Partner organization: YOMN | |
| Overall description(Tell us the story of this activity) | This interactive practice encourages intergenerational cooperation by having youth and older adults work together to create eco-friendly solutions for local problems. Through nature observation, shared storytelling, and creative teamwork, they co-design a small prototype project that supports sustainability—like a community garden, clean-up campaign, or recycling station. This practice promotes solidarity, practical learning, and active care for the environment across generations. | |
| Total Duration: | 3.5 hours | |
| Group size: | 10–20 participants (mixed ages) | |
| List of materials:(from pens to papers to Wi-Fi to an elephant) | Markers, paper, flipcharts, tape, photos or phones for picture taking, recycled materials (bottles, cardboard), scissors, glue, seating. | |
| Activity’s objectives:(what do you want to achieve by delivering this activity) | – Build cooperation between youth and elders on environmental action – Share ecological knowledge from past and present – Encourage problem-solving and teamwork – Create a simple but real project to improve the community | |
| memory archive timeline: information, picture and link. e.g. short story. | Photo: free image- pexels https://asturias4steam.eu/laboratorio_biomimetico_educacion/ | |
| Step-by-Step Description | ||
| Time:(mins) | Activity Description: Include all the steps needed, Include notes for the facilitation. | |
| 20 mins | STEP 1: introductionStart with a name game and one question: ‘What is one thing from nature you care about?’. For example: water, the sea, animals, trees, etc. This create connection and shows shared interests. | |
| 30 mins | STEP 2: Eco-Stories Across GenerationsIn pairs or small groups (youth and elders), share stories: – What was nature like when you were younger? – What has changed? – What practices were used to care for the Earth? Youth can write or draw the ideas shared. | |
| 40 mins | STEP 3: Nature Walk or Photo TourGo for a short walk around the area or use printed photos to observe environmental issues or opportunities (trash, trees, empty space, gardens). Let each group take notes or photos of what they see. | |
| 60 mins | STEP 4: Co-Design for the PlanetBack in the room, each group picks one local problem and creates a simple eco-solution. It could be a recycling spot, small garden, water-saving idea, or poster campaign. They make a plan using drawings or materials provided. | |
| 30 mins | STEP 5: Project presentationsEach group presents their idea in 2–3 minutes to the rest of the participants. Encourage positive feedback after each presentation, asking powerful questions. | |
| 30 mins | STEP 6: Reflection & Next StepsAsk the group; – What did you learn from someone today? – How did it feel to create together? – Can we make these ideas real? Write shared ideas on a big poster and invite local leaders or organizations if possible. | |
| Extra information we need to take into account. Notes for facilitation etc (in case needed) | Support both youth and elders in expressing their ideas. Use visual aids, big paper, and group leaders if needed. Help manage time and guide groups that are stuck. Make the space accessible and use inclusive language for all ages. | |
| Preparations for the activity:(what do you need to do, who needs to do it, etc.) | – Invite mixed-age participants from the same neighborhood or school – Prepare printed photos of local spaces (if no walk is possible) – Have paper, markers, glue, recyclables, and basic art supplies ready | |
| Evaluation of the activity:(Describe how will you explore what worked, what did not, what should be changed, what as the impact, was the objective achieved and to what extent…) | — Ask participants what they liked or found difficult – Use short interviews or written feedback – Observe how people worked together and if ideas were realistic | |
| Expected Outcomes: What are the expected learning outcomes, social outcomes, or other benefits. Describe how it contributes to collecting and sharing socio-ecological memories. | Participants will feel more connected to nature and each other. New ideas will come up and they will rise awareness on the importance of committing to nature. They will leave with a real idea or project they could do in their community. Youth gain confidence, elders feel valued, and both generations learn to act together for the environment. | |
| Appendices(If relevant – handouts, internet links, etc.) | ||
Nature Lab: Youth and Elders Co-Design for the Planet #5
