The azure waters of the British Virgin Islands have always been on my bucket list. When the opportunity to participate in an Erasmus+ project that focused on environmental conservation and zero waste came my way, I jumped at the chance. Little did I know that my journey to Virgin Gorda would not only open my eyes to the pristine beauty of the local beaches but also teach me valuable lessons about reducing waste and connecting with like-minded individuals from Norway and Turkey. As I set foot on the island of Virgin Gorda, the first thing that struck me was the breathtaking beauty of its beaches. The powdery white sands and the crystal-clear waters were like a dream come true. I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for being able to experience such natural wonders. However, amidst all this beauty, I couldn't help but notice the litter scattered on the shores. Plastic bottles, wrappers, and other debris were a stark reminder of the environmental challenges we face. It was at this point that I realized the importance of our mission: to learn about zero waste and to help preserve the pristine beaches of Virgin Gorda. Zero Waste Workshops and Cross-Cultural Exchange Our Erasmus+ project brought together participants from diverse backgrounds, including a group from Norway and another from Turkey. It was a melting pot of cultures and ideas, and it was amazing to connect with people who shared a passion for environmental conservation. The workshops we attended were eye- opening. One key learning was understanding the concept of "zero waste." It's not just about reducing, reusing, and recycling. It's a holistic approach that involves rethinking our consumption patterns and embracing sustainable alternatives. We learned about composting, using natural plants like Aloe Vera for our Body, or doing energizing workouts with only using our Body. These workshops made me realize that we can replace many of the tools we use with natural and eco-friendly solutions. My Initial Feelings about the Erasmus+ Project Before the project, I was excited to meet new people and explore the concept of zero waste. However, I'll admit that I was a bit apprehensive about the unknown. The thought of spending weeks with strangers in a foreign land was both thrilling and daunting. The passion and dedication of the participants, along with the warm and welcoming nature of the local Virgin Gorda community, put my fears at ease. We were all in this together, working towards a common goal of creating a sustainable future. The Unforgiving Sun and Pesky Mosquitoes While the beauty of the British Virgin Islands is undeniable, the hot weather and the relentless mosquitoes were a constant presence. Despite the scorching sun and the irritating bites, they were a reminder that nature, while stunning, can also be unforgiving. It made me appreciate the fragility and resilience of our environment even more. In conclusion, my time in Virgin Gorda was a transformative experience. The lessons I learned about zero waste, the connections I made with the Norwegian and Turkish participants, and the unparalleled beauty of the local beaches will stay with me forever. I left the island with a deep sense of responsibility to protect our planet and a network of friends who share that same commitment. Virgin Gorda will always hold a special place in my heart as a reminder of the importance of living in harmony with nature and the power of collective action in the face of environmental challenges.