The Green Treasures of the Carpathians project brings together organisations from Slovakia and Ukraine to inspire young people to discover, understand, and protect the unique biodiversity of the Carpathian Mountains. Through outdoor adventures, environmental education, and creative activities, the project nurtures a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens and strengthens cross-border resilience against biodiversity loss.
Outdoor learning in action
Since its launch in April 2025, the project has organised a series of eco-club excursions and thematic camps in the High Tatras and Transcarpathia regions. Young participants have explored the birthplace of the Uzh River in Uzhansky National Park, hiked along the legendary Dovbush Trail, and climbed peaks such as Kosztirivka and Dragobrat.
Each trip combines scientific discovery with creative experiences: testing soil and water quality in a “field eco-lab”, learning about food chains in the forest, identifying lichens, mosses and ferns, or observing the strategies animals use to survive. Alongside these lessons, children and teenagers also enjoy rafting, climbing, team games, and art activities – from building photo frames out of natural materials to creating “forest paintings”.
On some excursions, participants are encouraged to “see with the heart”, walking barefoot on forest paths, listening to the sound of “rain” created by pebbles in their hands, or learning to recognise trees by touch and scent. These playful yet profound activities help children experience the forest with all senses, creating emotional connections that go beyond simple knowledge.
These outdoor classrooms give participants more than just facts: they create lasting memories, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation of nature. As one eco-club reflected after a mountain hike: “This journey gave us more than new facts in biology – it gave us gratitude and understanding that we are all responsible for protecting the jewels of the world around us.”
Creative education and inclusion
The project draws inspiration from good practices in Germany and the Czech Republic, adapting interactive methods of nature pedagogy for the Carpathian context. Educational materials are being developed for teachers, guides, national park rangers and youth leaders, while thematic theatre performances by Slovak and Ukrainian artists will further engage communities in both countries.
An important aspect of the Slovak activities is the active involvement of Ukrainian refugee families, ensuring that both children and adults can participate in meaningful environmental education while strengthening cross-border solidarity.
Why it matters
The Carpathian Mountains are among Europe’s most precious natural treasures, but they are increasingly threatened by uncontrolled development, climate change, and pollution. By engaging the next generation directly in hands-on environmental education, Green Treasures of the Carpathians builds awareness, responsibility, and skills that will help safeguard biodiversity for the future.
More about the project on our website: https://next.huskroua-cbc.eu/project-map/association-for-nature-conservation-machaon-international/
