From School to Community: Zero Waste in Rae Municipality

CSO: Peipsi Koostöö Keskus
Area: Environmental and Climate Awareness, Community Engagement and Social Cohesion, Sustainable Land Use and Agroecology
Location: Peipsimaa

Type of project

The project aims to increase climate and environmental awareness in Peipsimaa by bringing green transition principles into everyday life through practical, experience-based activities. It focuses on biodiversity, agroecological practices, and the protection of Lake Peipus while engaging multiethnic local communities and promoting intergenerational learning. By combining hands-on actions, dialogue with local stakeholders, and accessible communication, the project empowers communities to take collective responsibility for a more sustainable living environment.

Target (Disengaged)

Multi-ethnic rural communities, youth, LAs.

Science-based

Grounding all activities and communication in verified climate and environmental data, using recognized national and international frameworks, and translating this knowledge into locally relevant, practical actions for Peipsimaa communities.

Gender

Engaging both women and men in environmental activities, addressing gender-specific impacts of climate change in its materials, and designing inclusive events that encourage active participation across genders and age groups.

Planned activities

From January to October 2026, the project will increase climate and environmental awareness in Peipsimaa through hands-on events and science-based communication, with a focus on youth and older adults.

• ≥ 43 local participants will take part directly in community activities, including International Water Day (≥ 18 participants) and coastal clean-up actions (≥ 25 participants).
• ≥ 150 people will be reached face-to-face through an information tent at the Peipsimaa Festival.
• ≥ 2 local media articles and ≥ 10 social media posts will disseminate science-based climate information via partner channels, reaching a wide regional audience.
• Printed and digital information materials on climate change, water, sustainable food, and livelihoods will be developed with environmental experts and shared at events and online.
• A final seminar and roundtable (autumn 2026) will bring together local government, communities, and experts to discuss climate impacts, adaptation, and international best practices.
• The project strengthens local and cross-sector cooperation between municipalities, schools, museums, NGOs, and youth centers, supporting long-term engagement with sustainability and the SDGs.

Action model

• The project’s action model is to translate science-based climate knowledge into locally relevant, hands-on community activities that build trust, participation, and sustainable everyday practices in Peipsimaa.