Pollution and environmental degradation pose serious social and economic threats, directly affecting human health, living standards, and both local and global economies. Addressing these complex challenges requires innovative thinking and collective action.
As Albert Einstein once said: “We can’t solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them.”
This philosophy inspired young participants of the LIVE-EX project in Maputo, Mozambique to take action. With a fresh perspective and a strong commitment to community empowerment, they launched a Recycling Challenge aimed at promoting sustainable waste management practices.
The challenge encourages local communities to reduce waste, rethink consumption habits, and adopt more sustainable recycling methods. The goal is to raise awareness and drive grassroots action for environmental protection and improved living conditions across Mozambican neighborhoods.
This initiative is rooted in the belief that small, everyday actions can create meaningful change. As environmental activist Wangari Maathai beautifully expressed:
“It’s the little things that citizens do. That’s what will make the difference. My small thing is planting trees.”
By combining local engagement with global sustainability goals, the LIVE-EX Recycling Challenge serves as a powerful example of how youth-led environmental action can build more resilient, eco-conscious communities.