On September 21st, 2024, the Responsive Youth for Climate Action (RYCA) project launched a new youth challenge in Kaunas:
“Solving Global Problems Through Recycling.”

Held as an interactive seminar, the event brought together young participants to explore the vital role of waste sorting and recycling in addressing environmental degradation. Organized with the support of the Lithuanian Red Cross – Kaunas Branch, the event combined education, debate, and a hands-on sorting activity that made climate learning both practical and impactful.

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🌍 Why Recycling Matters

The seminar focused on how improper waste disposal contributes to:

• Soil and water pollution
• Ocean contamination and biodiversity loss
• Air pollution from incineration
• Overreliance on virgin materials and unsustainable production

Participants learned sobering facts: a plastic bag takes up to 200 years to decompose, while aluminum cans can last over 500 years in landfills. When waste is unsorted, it often ends up polluting ecosystems rather than being reused as valuable material.

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🔍 Understanding What Can Be Recycled

The group dove into the science and strategy of recycling, identifying what materials can be reused and how to recognize recycling symbols on packaging. Key takeaways included:

✅ Recyclable: paper, plastic, glass, metal, textiles
❌ Non-recyclable: chip bags, disposable cups, contaminated containers

Participants discussed how conscious consumer habits—such as choosing reusable products and avoiding over-packaged goods—can significantly reduce waste generation at the source.

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🎯 Game-Based Learning in Action

The highlight of the event was a team-based sorting game where participants competed to identify and sort various types of waste based on real-world packaging symbols. This practical experience helped reinforce the importance of accurate sorting, not just recycling in general.

By engaging in a fun, peer-led challenge, youth were empowered to think critically about daily consumption and how small behavioral changes can contribute to systemic environmental solutions.

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🤝 Community Collaboration

We extend our sincere thanks to Lietuvos Raudonasis Kryžius – Kauno skyrius for their continued support and partnership. Their collaboration demonstrates the power of community-based learning and the role civil society can play in climate education.

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🚀 What’s Next?

This seminar was part of a broader RYCA effort to connect climate knowledge with local action. From sorting waste to shaping policy, young people are at the center of change.

📲 Stay connected with us at @rycaproject and rycaproject.eu for more opportunities to learn, lead, and act for the planet.