The “Training on Sustainable Consumption and the Circular Economy” under the Erasmus+ KA220-YOU project “Youth for a Plastic-Free Future: Raising Awareness on Marine Litter” was held in İzmir, Türkiye, from 13 to 16 October 2026.

The training was organised by the project coordinator, Ankara University National Center for the Sea and Maritime Law (DEHUKAM), with contributions from project partners Abat Oliba CEU University (Spain), the University of Montenegro (Montenegro), and FISPMED (Italy).

Throughout the programme, participants explored the links between consumption habits, the circular economy, and marine litter. Martina Rogato from FISPMED, Prof. Danilo Nikolic from the University of Montenegro, and Dr. Carmen Parra Rodríguez from Abat Oliba CEU University delivered sessions covering marine litter and circular economy concepts, consumer behaviour and marine ecosystems, solution development, action planning, and business models. Presentations, discussions, and group activities encouraged participants to consider waste reduction strategies and environmentally responsible choices.

Following these sessions, DEHUKAM Researcher Çağrı Ünal guided participants in preparing a Youth Declaration. Participants jointly developed and presented their recommendations on sustainable consumption and the prevention of marine pollution.

At the end of the training, trainers and partner representatives presented certificates to the participants during the closing ceremony.

The training supported the project’s aim of raising awareness of marine pollution and encouraging young people to take action in their communities.