December 2023

From October 10 to 12, we, the Growing Green Communities Project partners, implemented another training course with nearly 60 students from Germany and Finland. Having the training hosted by Kalevan Lukio, we had various workshops conducted with the participants. During the training, our diverse workshops sparked meaningful conversations and shared insights, which you can find below: Throughout the training, an array of workshops unfolded, each illuminating various aspects of sustainable living and community empowerment: “Food Scaping” by the University of Copenhagen: This workshop was a lens into perceiving the food that surrounds us. It explored innovative methods of cultivating food within urban landscapes, redefining how we view and utilize our immediate environment. “Co-design Communities” by CRN: Delving into the intricacies of creating local communities, this workshop encouraged collaborative efforts in redesigning and reimagining community spaces for inclusivity and sustainable growth. “Finnish Forest Exploration with a Local Mushroom Guru”: Participants embarked on a captivating walk through the Finnish forest, guided by a local expert. The aim was to recognize and appreciate the edible treasures nestled within the natural surroundings. “Health, Education, and Human Behavior” by USI: USI provided insights into the interconnectedness of health, education, and human behavior, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches to community development. “Understanding Human Behavior for Sustainable Change” by USI: This workshop highlighted the crucial role of social marketing in influencing behavior for the greater social good. By understanding people’s values and motivations, in addition to exploring strategies for supporting behavioral change. On the second day of training, we had a fun “Science Slam” competition between the project partners. Suzanne Suggs from USI won the competition, being chosen by majority who attended this session. Following the end of the training session, a partner meeting was conducted between project partners to discuss the further steps of the project. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Kalevan Lukio for graciously hosting this event, providing a nurturing environment for these impactful discussions and workshops. The collaboration and enthusiasm of all participants and partners have propelled us toward our collective goal of fostering sustainable communities. Previous Next

Imagine a world where school meals aren’t just plates of food; they’re exciting adventures served with a side of sustainability. With schools adopting longer schedules and students desiring for healthy, sustainable meal options, the conversation on school lunches has never been more crucial.  Denmark, known for its liberal approach to school lunches, faces a pivotal moment. The country has the unique opportunity to redefine its approach to school meals, integrating nutrition, learning, and sustainability. On 29 September At the School Food Forum at the Frederiksberg City Hall a group of experts, educators, policymakers, and our dedicated team at Crossing Borders gathered to discuss and co-create the future of school meals in Denmark.  The day started with the energy of young minds in the Young People’s Foodlab, showcasing innovative proposals for green food solutions. This demonstrated how project-based learning and youthful creativity can integrate into sustainability education. The event was also graced by Jacob Jensen, Minister for Food, Agriculture, and Fisheries, who set the stage with insights into the past, present, and future of school meals in Denmark.   As for the Crossing Border’s presence at the event, We were proudly presenting “Growing Green Communities” program. This initiative is more than just a project, it’s a vision for a healthier, sustainable future. “Growing Green Communities” Project aims to understand the pathways of change in urban food production and consumption, we encourage young people to support communities in initiating urban gardening projects. It’s about empowering young gardeners, promoting plant-powered diets, and supporting local food heroes. Through this initiative, every meal becomes an opportunity for learning, fostering a deeper connection between food, sustainability, and community.  The event culminated in a powerful discussion about the significance of healthy school lunches and different perspectives of school food policies, involving CB team members from various countries. It showcased Crossing Borders’ commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and the belief that every child deserves access to nutritious meals for a brighter future.  Our presence at this event symbolizes our dedication to shaping a world where education, nutrition, and sustainability intersect harmoniously. The importance of providing healthy meals lies at the heart of Crossing Borders’ mission, because at Crossing Borders, every meal is a story, and every story is a step towards a better, greener world. Written By: Luka Tsibadze