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Description
WE CAN is a dynamic project that will offer opportunities in environmental and philanthropic volunteerism to citizens otherwise not engaged. For nine months, through education and training, Cans for Kids’ volunteers will reach out to youth and community groups by organising hands-on activities. Outcomes will add value to the island’s efforts towards sustainable and responsible recycling, while providing better care at paediatric wards throughout Cyprus.
For 30 years, Cans for Kids has promoted aluminium can recycling. The charity runs a wide network of can banks across Cyprus and operates a can sorting/crushing facility. After metal is gathered from can banks, it is sorted and crushed by volunteers (every Saturday morning). At the same time, Cans For Kids continually learns of needs from medical staff at the pediatric wards of hospitals. Consequently, crushed cubes of metal translate to valuable equipment sent to pediatric wards. All of this comes about due to active individuals, households, organisations and communities.
Using outreach, and new and established media, WE CAN plans to bring more youth and communities in Cyprus on board. At a Nicosia university, a communications course will be devoted to WE CAN. Young people will learn about the whys and hows of recycling in Cyprus and abroad. The charity is well placed to offer students help in creative messaging; these skills can be useful in their future communication endeavours. Likewise, at least six Cypriot communities will have can banks placed, with training for monitors to understand best practice at each site. Clean-up days and school activities will attract youth and/or individuals from under-represented groups and communities.
WE CAN and Cans for Kids offer opportunities and rewards intrinsic to volunteering for environmental and philanthropic causes.
WE CAN recycle more. WE CAN volunteer to help others.
Summary of project results
The WECAN project aimed to address several key challenges related to environmental awareness, community engagement, and sustainability. A primary issue was the lack of participation in environmental initiatives, particularly among youth and citizens in under-served communities. The project required to increase engagement through education, training, and outreach activities. Additionally, there was limited awareness of proper recycling practices and the broader significance of sustainability, particularly in more remote areas. Another challenge involved securing commitment from participants, as some individuals who had initially pledged their support withdrew at the last minute, either due to personal circumstances or a lack of understanding of the project''s obligations. Furthermore, gaining media coverage proved difficult due to competing news priorities, such as the Presidential elections and the February earthquake in Cyprus, which diverted public and press attention away from environmental initiatives. Health-related concerns also posed a challenge, as despite the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, some individuals remained cautious about close interactions. Financial constraints due to rising global costs presented another risk, although this was mitigated through early procurement strategies. Lastly, logistical difficulties arose, such as scheduling conflicts that prevented a planned lecture by a Norwegian expert, though an alternative speaker from the Cyprus Green Party successfully addressed the topic. Despite these challenges, the project effectively adapted through strategic planning and proactive problem-solving, ultimately exceeding its initial goals and expectations.
The WECAN project implemented a range of activities aimed at increasing environmental awareness and community engagement in recycling initiatives across Cyprus. Key activities included outreach programs in schools and universities, where students received hands-on training in recycling practices, particularly in can bank management. Educational sessions and presentations were conducted, with visits to the Cans for Kids recycling center providing participants with practical experience. A bi-communal clean-up day was organized to encourage collaboration between different communities, promoting both environmental responsibility and social cohesion. Additionally, can banks were strategically placed in new locations, accompanied by an advertising campaign to increase public participation. Volunteers received training sessions on can bank management, and a best practice handbook was developed to ensure the sustainability of the initiative. The project also engaged the media through press releases, TV and radio interviews, and social media campaigns to enhance visibility and encourage widespread involvement. Despite challenges such as scheduling conflicts and limited media attention due to external events, the project successfully expanded its reach beyond initial expectations, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility among youth and the broader community.
The WECAN project achieved remarkable results, significantly surpassing its initial targets in engaging youth, volunteers, and communities in environmental sustainability efforts. Over 100 schools and students participated in outreach activities, exceeding initial projections. Additionally, more than 50 individuals were trained in can bank management, surpassing the contract''s original goal. The project reached hundreds of residents across Cyprus, including under-served communities, through educational sessions, training programs, and clean-up events.
A bi-communal clean-up day at the Kaimakli recycling center brought together youth from both communities, where they sorted and categorized recyclable materials. The can bank network expanded with the installation of at least two new can banks at Pallouriotissa School and the Yeri Scouts, making recycling more accessible to students and local communities. More than 100 USB sticks containing project materials, training manuals, and promotional content were distributed to attendees at the final wrap-up event and key stakeholders.
Media and publicity efforts ensured strong visibility, with press releases distributed in both Greek and English, multiple TV and radio interviews, and frequent social media updates. Surveys conducted as part of the project indicated that over 25% of respondents had not previously heard of Cans for Kids, highlighting the success of the campaign in reaching new audiences. Furthermore, 41 individuals signed up as future volunteers, demonstrating lasting engagement.
Through these achievements, the project effectively enhanced environmental awareness, increased youth participation in sustainability efforts, and strengthened community-driven recycling initiatives across Cyprus.