Chapter one: six weeks among lemon trees 

It has now been eleven years since ACARBIO first launched these summer initiatives, with the inaugural edition taking place in 2014. This team volunteering project, part of the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) program, once again brought together young people from across the globe to dedicate their time and energy to community service and environmental protection. This year it’s been possible to host this projects thanks to the collaboration with Progetto Zattera Blu, a non/profit social cooperative based in Calvene, Vicenza that brings together organizations and individuals to develop projects about sustainability and social culture.

During this edition of Make it Green the team of volunteers from 11 different countries (Czech Republic, Slovakia, Portugal, Martinique, Spain, Italy, Georgia, France, Romania, Turkey, China) and two local coordinators (shout out to Rita and Antonio:) ) will base their activities in Tramonti, for the next six weeks, to promote sustainability and local culture among beautiful mountains, lemon trees and the smell of the sea.

From the very first days, we found ourselves immersed in breathtaking landscapes, discovering hidden places and becoming part of a community that deeply cares about protecting nature and keeping it free from waste. Our days began with team-building activities that helped us connect, share laughs and build trust. We visited ACARBIO’s headquarters, where we met coordinators, long-term volunteers and Isidoro, a member of “A Paranza Ro Tramuntan”, a folkloric group dedicated to preserving and sharing Amalfi Coast traditions. We also explored a Acarbio’s garden, learning about respectful and sustainable ways to work with nature.

 

Our first hands-on activities included collecting more than 200 kg of trash, mainly glass bottles and plastic, this first clean-up made us understand the real impact of waste on the environment. Also we started the sketch of colorful murals for the local kindergarten, aiming to bring life and creativity to previously empty spaces.

 

 

 

 

During our free time, we explored the surrounding area: hiking to Amalfi, watching the sunset from the panoramic Valico di Chiunzi with Mount Vesuvius glowing in warm colours, enjoying the calm sea in Maiori and Minori, and, most importantly, sharing deep and meaningful conversations about our cultures, traditions and experiences.

Stay tuned for another chapter of our adventures! 🙂

 

With lots of love,

Your international volunteers of Make it Green 2025