Learning sustainability by living it!
From 31 August to 5 September, 24 university students gathered in Ponta Delgada, Azores, for the third edition of EucA’s Sustainability Summer School. What followed was a week of learning focused on sustainability, environmental awareness, and climate resilience.
Surrounded by the unique natural environment of the Azores, students explored topics such as ecotourism, marine environments, and biodiversity, while discovering how scientific knowledge, community engagement, and individual action can contribute to a more sustainable future.
This year’s program also introduced participants to Climate Ambassadors, an EU-funded project exploring climate resilience and the role young people can play in supporting and mobilising their communities. Students had the opportunity to translate these ideas into practice through environmental volunteering with LIFE IP Azores Natura, directly contributing to local conservation efforts.
Science and environmental discovery continued at CIVISA (Azores Seismovolcanic Information and Surveillance Center) and the University of the Azores, where participants explored volcanology and gained a closer understanding of the islands’ extraordinary natural environment. A whale and dolphin-watching experience brought the learning out to sea, offering another perspective on the rich marine ecosystem of the archipelago.
Beyond environmental knowledge, the Summer School was also an opportunity for personal and interpersonal development. Through an intensive week of shared activities, students strengthened their teamwork, adaptability, self-awareness, and sense of responsibility towards their communities and the planet.
After six days of learning, volunteering, exploring, and connecting, participants left the Azores with new perspectives and a challenge to take home: turning what they learned into meaningful action within their own communities.
A huge thank you to all the students, partners, experts, and organisations who contributed to making the third edition of the Sustainability Summer School possible!
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