The project titled "EcoBalance – Physical and Mental Health Through Nature," prepared under the auspices of the Faculty of Education at Kastamonu University, has been granted support under the European Union Erasmus+ Program. The project was deemed worthy of a grant of 21,633 euros within the framework of KA154-YOU Youth Participation Activities, conducted by the Turkish National Agency.  

The project is led by Prof. Dr. E. Nihal Lindberg, a faculty member of our university's Faculty of Education, while the project team includes Prof. Dr. Önder Tor from the Faculty of Forestry, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Rıfat Kayış and Dr. Faculty Member Murat Konuk from the Faculty of Education, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Senem Yetgin from the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture.  

In the project, Munster Technological University from Ireland, Technical University in Zvolen from Slovakia, and the General Directorate of Forestry and the Kastamonu Mountaineering and Nature Sports Specialized Sports Club Association from Türkiye are participating as partner institutions.  

The EcoBalance Project, which will start in April 2026 and run for 10 months, aims to support the physical and psychological well-being of young adults through a nature-based, structured educational program. As part of the project, participants are encouraged to establish sustainable connections with nature while aiming to enhance their individual resilience. 

Participants will gain awareness of the effects of human-nature interactions on individual and societal well-being, as well as knowledge of ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainable living practices. During the program, participants will receive practical training in safe living in nature, first aid, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. Additionally, it is planned to strengthen participants' mental and physical health through forest bathing, mindfulness, and nature-based therapy practices. 

The EcoBalance Project aims to train qualified individuals, strengthen interdisciplinary collaborations, and contribute to sustainable development at both national and international levels in line with our university's field of "forestry specialization." Our university aims to produce significant scientific and societal outputs through a project that creates a strong collaborative foundation among public institutions and international stakeholders.  

Our Rector also stated, "The EcoBalance Project, developed in line with our university's vision for specialization in forestry, is an important initiative that enables young people to reconnect with nature." Projects of this kind, which enhance interdisciplinary collaborations, not only contribute to the development of our students but also ensure that our university provides strong academic support for sustainable development goals.