The HEROES project aimed to raise awareness among young people from rural areas about sustainable eating habits, food biodiversity, and the environmental impact of consumption.

It brought together 35 participants aged 18–30 from Greece, Romania, Spain, Italy, and Croatia, supported by five team leaders, for a five-day Youth Exchange in Veria. Through informal and non-formal education methods, including interactive games, outdoor activities, debates, and practical exercises, participants explored sustainable food systems, visited local agri-food businesses, and engaged with producers and entrepreneurs to understand green practices and their environmental impact.

The project enabled participants to critically reflect on their eating habits, develop leadership, communication, teamwork, research, and intercultural skills, and increase self-confidence and civic engagement. They also gained knowledge about digital tools, social media, and dissemination techniques, creating a network of contacts across countries to promote sustainability.

Participating organizations strengthened their capacity for youth work, particularly with young people with fewer opportunities, expanded their local, national, and European networks, and improved understanding of the food system’s environmental impact. The HEROES project ultimately aimed to inspire young people to adopt sustainable consumption practices and to engage actively in shaping a sustainable future.