In today’s world, the need for sustainability has become undeniable. But how do we inspire people to truly embrace environmentally conscious habits? At STANDO, we believe that the answer lies in hands-on learning that connects people to the natural world.
That’s where the Outdoor Odyssey course comes in—a transformative journey designed to equip participants with the tools to lead environmental education and sustainable development programs.
A Blend of Theory and Practice
The Outdoor Odyssey course combines the best of both worlds: the foundational understanding of sustainability and practical application in diverse settings. Participants don’t just learn about sustainability in a classroom. They step into nature, history, and culture—bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world action. This holistic approach ensures that participants leave ready to implement impactful environmental education programs that resonate with their communities.
Immersive Learning in Diverse Outdoor Settings
From natural wonders to cultural landmarks, Outdoor Odyssey leverages a variety of outdoor spaces to create meaningful learning experiences:
National Parks: Dive into the wonders of ecosystems and biodiversity.
Eco-Farms: Learn hands-on about sustainable agriculture and food systems.
City Historic Centres: Understand the balance between urban development and heritage conservation.
Nature Trails: Connect with local flora and fauna, fostering ecological awareness.
Botanic Gardens: Discover the crucial role plants play in ecosystem health.
The Sea Coast: Explore marine ecosystems and understand how to protect them.
KA1 Training Sessions: Connecting Passionate People Every Month
Once again, we successfully participated in Erasmus Week, engaging actively on social media and through in-person events. Our contributions highlighted the value of international collaboration and lifelong learning, reinforcing our commitment to these principles.
Guided by experienced professionals, participants leave the course not only with new knowledge but also with practical tools and the confidence to inspire change in their own communities.
Whether you’re an educator looking to refresh your teaching methods, a leader seeking to drive sustainability in your community, or simply passionate about protecting the planet, this course offers something for everyone.
Outdoor Odyssey Best Practices
We don’t stop at teaching sustainability; we live it. By integrating practical activities inspired by the biodiversity and traditions of Cyprus, we create impactful learning experiences.
1. Produce Your Own Medicine with Natural Ingredients
Participants in our workshops learn to craft natural remedies using simple, locally sourced ingredients
Mint: Extracted from mint leaves. Participants discover the effectiveness of nature’s resources while making cost-effective alternatives to commercial products.
Zivania (local spirit): With its antiseptic properties, this traditional Cypriot spirit becomes the base for homemade disinfectants and pain-relief rubs. By tying this activity to local heritage, we show how ancient practices can still serve modern needs.
2. Learn About Cyprus’ Unique Species and Biodiversity
Cyprus is a biodiversity hotspot, and we use this richness to educate participants:
Field Trips:
Guided walks in nature reserve Troodos mountain allow participants to identify native species and learn about their ecological roles. With insights from wildlife experts, they explore the delicate balance of these ecosystems.
Interactive Tools:
Participants use multimedia resources to map biodiversity and discuss strategies for protecting endangered species.
3. Protect the Sea Environment
Our coastline activities immerse participants in marine conservation:
Workshops on Marine Life:
At sites like Lara Beach, participants explore the importance of marine biodiversity, learning about seagrass, sea turtles, and how these ecosystems are interconnected.
Beach Clean-ups:
Participants collect and categorize waste, using data to understand pollution trends. Interactive discussions encourage actionable steps for reducing plastic waste.
Sustainable Practices:
Through hands-on activities with natural materials like seagrass, we create engaging tools to raise awareness about marine conservation while showcasing eco-friendly choices for daily life.
Why Outdoor Odyssey Matters
At STANDO, we believe that fostering sustainability is about more than just knowledge—it’s about creating meaningful experiences that inspire action. The Outdoor Odyssey course empowers participants to become leaders in environmental education, creating ripple effects in their communities.
Join us for this unique journey. Together, we can build a brighter, greener future.
Merve Buba
Team Manager
