How can nature reserves and national parks become spaces for youth inclusion and development? This international long term Erasmus+ Youth project aimed to explore precisely that. In its first year, a Seminar in Italy and a Study Visit in Bulgaria brought together youth workers, educators, volunteers and activists from across Europe to share practices on how to involve young people, especially those from rural or disadvantaged backgrounds, in the management, protection and educational use of protected natural areas.

Rather than focusing only on conservation, the project looked at protected areas as potential laboratories for youth participation, green job creation and inclusive development. Case studies from various countries highlighted how environmental education, community-based tourism, youth camps and citizens’ initiatives can create meaningful opportunities for personal and professional growth.

A central moment of the year was the Study Visit in Bulgaria, with participants meeting local stakeholders and visiting Chatama Forest Centre, the University of Forestry in Jundola and the Education Centre for Large Carnivores in Vlahi. These visits showcased successful models of environmental engagement, self-managed education centres and youth-led activities. Participants documented their findings and proposed strategies to replicate these practices in other local contexts.

The year concluded with a dossier collecting all outputs, educational models and reflections, aiming to inspire youth organisations and park authorities to establish structured, ongoing relationships with young people. By doing so, protected areas are not only preserved but activated as inclusive, participatory and transformative spaces for the next generation.

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