By Dr. Olga Donets
Environmental Education is one of the most effective tools for fostering a responsible attitude among young people toward natural resources, climate change, and sustainable development. With this goal in mind, the “Grassroots Institute” continues to implement its educational programme, “EcoExperts”, aimed at promoting modern environmental knowledge among school students across the Zakarpattia region.
During April-May 2026, our team conducted six interactive environmental lessons for students in Grades 8-11 at three secondary educational institutions:
This year’s lessons focused on alternative sources of electricity generation, a topic of growing importance for both Ukraine and the global community. During the sessions, students explored the main types of renewable energy, including solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and bioenergy. Particular attention was given to the advantages and challenges associated with each energy source, their environmental impacts, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, improvements in energy efficiency, and the role of renewable energy in strengthening Ukraine’s energy security and independence.
Together with the students, we discussed why countries around the world are gradually transitioning to renewable energy, what technologies are already being implemented in Ukraine and internationally, and how young people can contribute to building a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future.
Consistent with the philosophy of the EcoExperts Programme, all lessons were conducted in an interactive format that actively engaged students in discussions, practical case studies, and collaborative problem-solving. This approach not only deepens students’ knowledge but also develops critical thinking, environmental awareness, teamwork, and informed decision-making skills. We believe that environmental education should extend beyond the classroom and help young people better understand the complex environmental challenges facing modern society.
It was particularly encouraging to see the students actively participating in discussions, asking thoughtful questions, and demonstrating genuine interest in renewable energy and sustainable development.
An important milestone of this initiative was the expansion of our educational partnership network. As part of the programme’s development, the Grassroots Institute signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Kamianske Lyceum of the Kamianske Village Council, Berehove District, Zakarpattia Region.
The Memorandum establishes a foundation for long-term cooperation in the fields of environmental education, civic engagement, youth development, and the implementation of joint educational and awareness-raising initiatives. We firmly believe that strong partnerships between civil society organizations and educational institutions create opportunities to provide students not only with theoretical knowledge but also with a practical understanding of today’s global environmental challenges.
The EcoExperts Programme is one of the long-term educational initiatives of the Grassroots Institute, designed to strengthen environmental awareness, promote the principles of sustainable development, and inspire a new generation of environmentally responsible citizens. We sincerely thank the administrations and teaching staff of Uzhhorod Lyceum No. 15, Silets Lyceum, and Kamianske Lyceum for their openness to cooperation, their support for our educational initiatives, and their shared commitment to advancing modern environmental education.
We would also like to express our special appreciation to the leadership of Kamianske Lyceum for their willingness to establish a long-term partnership and jointly develop new educational projects for young people. Many more lessons, new topics, and exciting opportunities for cooperation lie ahead. We are convinced that through education, open dialogue, and strong partnerships, we can help shape a generation capable of making responsible decisions and building an environmentally sustainable, energy-efficient, and resilient future for Ukraine.
💚 The EcoExperts Programme continues to grow, and we are proud to keep inspiring young people by exploring today’s environmental challenges and the innovative solutions that will shape our country’s future for decades to come.
For more information: mail@tgi.org.ua
