EcoAction Hackathon Showcases Youth-Driven Solutions for Sustainable Communities

On 5 December 2025, young changemakers from across Europe came together online for the final event of the EcoAction Hackathon, organized within the RurALL Living Lab project. The event brought together around 46 participants online, representing some of the most creative and promising ideas selected from a record number of submissions.

This year’s EcoAction Hackathon received 91 registered ideas involving 344 young people, highlighting a strong interest among youth in addressing environmental challenges at the local level. After careful selection, finalists presented their ideas in two categories: Innovation & Tech Concept and Project & Community Action.

Throughout the session, participants showcased solutions ranging from digital tools and technological concepts to community-based initiatives focused on local environmental issues. The presentations demonstrated that meaningful change often starts in small communities and grows through collaboration, creativity, and shared responsibility.

Following live pitches and anonymous voting by both participants and partner organizations, the strongest ideas in each category were recognized. Beyond competition, the event created space for networking and future cooperation, encouraging participants to stay connected and continue developing their ideas beyond the Hackathon.

The EcoAction Hackathon once again confirmed that young people are ready to take an active role in shaping a more sustainable future — when given the opportunity, support, and platform to do so.