What ISLANDS will create: the results that will shape the future of our islands

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

As ISLANDS moves from planning to action, the project begins to take shape through a series of concrete results designed to support communities in Sardinia, Ibiza and São Miguel. These outputs are more than simple documents or materials. They are tools created to last, guiding associations, youth workers and local communities toward more inclusive, sustainable and connected island environments. Each result reflects the lessons learned across the three territories and transforms them into shared knowledge ready to travel far beyond the project itself.

understanding island realities

One of the first outcomes is an in-depth exploration of the environmental and social challenges that characterise remote territories. This work provides a clear picture of issues such as biodiversity protection, water management, youth migration and social isolation. It helps communities and decision-makers understand what makes islands unique and what actions are most needed to support them. By documenting real experiences and local examples, the project offers a resource that remains relevant long after the project ends.

sport, diversity and community empowerment

Another key result focuses on the role of sport in shaping inclusive and healthy communities. It highlights how sports associations can become agents of social change, capable of promoting diversity, breaking stereotypes and creating safe spaces for everyone. This output is written for trainers, youth workers and volunteers who play a central role in local communities. It provides inspiration, methods and practical guidance to strengthen participation, inclusion and social cohesion.

a video that tells a story

ISLANDS will also produce a video that captures the spirit of the project. Through images, voices and real experiences, it shows how sport can transform communities and why island territories have so much potential to offer. The video becomes a bridge between the three islands, giving visibility to their stories and helping to raise awareness among citizens, institutions and organisations across Europe.

practical tools for greener and more inclusive events

To support local activities, the project will develop a practical kit designed to help associations improve their sports offer. It includes guidance on organising low-impact events, integrating sustainability into daily practices and using social media to raise awareness. It is a hands-on resource for anyone wishing to make their activities greener, more inclusive and more accessible.

a new inter-island network

Perhaps the most ambitious result is the creation of an alliance connecting the three islands. This network brings together associations, local institutions and stakeholders who believe in the power of sport to promote inclusion and sustainability. It includes a manifesto, an online platform and a collection of good practices shared across the partnership. The goal is to encourage cooperation, inspire new ideas and set the foundations for future Erasmus+ initiatives.

a legacy that remains

All outputs will be available online through the project website, the partners’ channels and the Erasmus+ Results Platform. Their open-access format ensures that anyone—from local associations to teachers, students, journalists and public institutions—can use them, adapt them and benefit from them.

ISLANDS is much more than a temporary project. It is an invitation to rethink how islands and remote areas can grow, connect and inspire each other. The materials created, the knowledge shared and the networks built will continue to support communities long after the project has reached its end.