Climate change and the depletion of natural resources are among the greatest challenges facing modern society. The media, scientists and activists are constantly reminding us of the urgent need to counteract the negative effects of these processes. Although environmental awareness is growing, there is still a huge gap in education - as not everyone has equal access to the knowledge and skills necessary to protect the environment. In particular, people with disabilities, such as the deaf and hard of hearing, are often left on the margins of these efforts.
In response to this need, the international project “GreenSkills4Deaf” was created to support deaf people in acquiring environmental competence. Thanks to this initiative, these people will be able not only to expand their knowledge of sustainable development, but also to actively participate in the green transformation, contributing to building a better future for our planet. The project is coordinated by the Social Academy of Sciences (SAN), a Polish university with 30 years of experience in education, known for its innovative approach to education and social inclusion activities. The project is implemented within the framework of the Erasmus+ Action 2 Cooperation Partnerships program in the education and vocational training sector.
SIGN LANGUAGE IN THE SERVICE OF ECOLOGY - THE KEY TO GREEN PROFESSIONS
Why is it so important to upskill deaf people in the area of sustainable development? A key barrier that has so far prevented them from fully participating in this field is the inadequate availability of sign language terminology on environmental and business issues. The lack of adequate translations means that deaf people do not have the chance to acquire the specialized knowledge that the job market requires in the context of green professions.
The “GreenSkills4Deaf” project aims to level the educational and professional playing field for this group, providing them with educational tools and materials that will allow them to more fully understand key issues related to ecology, renewable energy, climate change and the green economy. As a result, project participants will gain not only knowledge, but also the confidence to take an active role in the processes that shape the future of our planet.
CREATING EQUALITY IN ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION
The “GreenSkills4Deaf” project introduces an innovative CO-DESIGN approach that strengthens cooperation between vocational schools, educators and labor market representatives. This creates a synergy that allows educational programs to be better adapted to the real needs of the market, especially in the area of green professions.
One of the key elements of the project is also the development of the EU Green Sign Language Framework, a unique initiative that aims to build equality in access to environmental education and green entrepreneurship for deaf people. This is an important step towards social inclusion and ensuring that no one is left out of the transition towards a sustainable future.
FROM EDUCATORS TO LOCAL GOVERNMENTS - GREENSKILLS4DEAF IS BUILDING A SUPPORT NETWORK
The “GreenSkills4Deaf” project is particularly dedicated to deaf and hard-of-hearing people, who often face barriers in accessing education and the labor market, especially in areas requiring specialized knowledge. However, the solutions created as part of the initiative are designed to also serve teachers, educators and institutions that support the professional and social development of this group.
Moreover, the project opens up new opportunities for cooperation and development for a wide range of audiences - including associations of the deaf, NGOs, municipalities and public authorities. Thus, the tools and knowledge developed can become an inspiration and support for further initiatives for sustainable development and social inclusion.
KNOWLEDGE WITHOUT BARRIERS
The “GreenSkills4Deaf” project is not just about theoretical assumptions, but concrete solutions that have a real impact on the lives of deaf and hard of hearing people. One of the key achievements is the development of innovative educational materials tailored to the needs of deaf people. Among them are sign-language videos, interactive online courses and textbooks that explain issues related to ecology, climate change and green technologies in an accessible way.
At the same time, the project also envisages a series of training courses for those working with this group so that they can effectively impart knowledge on sustainability. “GreenSkills4Deaf” is an example of how education can be accessible to everyone, regardless of the difficulties they face.
GLOBAL EXPERIENCE, LOCAL SOLUTIONS
The international nature of the “GreenSkills4Deaf” project is crucial not only in overcoming the barriers faced by deaf and hard-of-hearing people, but also in building bridges between different communities. Working with partners from different corners of the European Union, the project benefits from diverse experiences, perspectives and proven practices, which are jointly adapted to meet specific local needs. This global synergy allows for the creation of solutions that are not only innovative, but also flexible and ready to be implemented in different cultural, educational and social contexts.
In addition to the Social Academy of Sciences (Poland), which is coordinating the project, organizations from different countries are participating in the project. They are: Ergon a favoure di Sordi (Italy), CitizensACT (Cyprus), Coopération Bancaire pour l'Europe (Belgium), and DISE (Cyprus).
NEW CHAPTER IN THE GREEN TRANSITION
The “GreenSkills4Deaf” project is a milestone on the road to building a more inclusive society in which everyone - regardless of disability - has the opportunity to thrive and actively participate in the green transition. The initiative not only opens up new opportunities for deaf and hard-of-hearing people, but also contributes to a broad movement to protect the environment and the future of our planet. It's a project that not only changes people's lives, but also makes a real difference toward sustainability.
For more information on the project, visit the website: https://greenskills4deaf.eu/.