Geocycle Hellas, a member of HERACLES Group, “Shoots for the Planet” once again, turning recycling into a game at The Mall Athens
More than 5,000 visitors took part in “We Shoot for the Planet”, an initiative that returned for the second consecutive year, combining environmental education with sports and play.
The environmental awareness initiative “We Shoot for the Planet”, organised by Geocycle Hellas, a member of HERACLES Group, successfully concluded for the second consecutive year, attracting enthusiastic participation from the public. The event took place from 15 to 17 October at The Mall Athens, Greece’s largest shopping and entertainment center.
Harnessing the power of play and sports, Geocycle Greece brought recycling to the forefront through an innovative, interactive experience, demonstrating that environmental education can be meaningful, creative and fun at the same time. This year’s event surpassed last year’s participation, attracting more than 5,000 visitors, with families and children showing particularly strong engagement.
At the specially designed stand on Level 1 of The Mall Athens, visitors had the opportunity to put their knowledge and skills to the test through two original games combining gamification with environmental education. First, an interactive digital quiz invited participants to explore facts and myths about environmental protection and the circular economy, gaining valuable insights into more responsible everyday habits. They then put their knowledge into action by taking shots at specially designed basketball hoops, learning through hands-on experience how to properly sort and dispose of waste.
Once again, children took center stage, demonstrating through their spontaneity, curiosity and enthusiasm that environmental awareness can be nurtured from a very young age. At the same time, the active involvement of parents highlighted the importance of shared experiences and knowledge-sharing within families, turning play into an opportunity for discussion, reflection and the adoption of more sustainable habits.
Throughout the three-day event, employees and executives from Geocycle Hellas and HERACLES Group engaged with visitors, answering questions, debunking common misconceptions and sharing practical advice on proper recycling and responsible waste management.
The “We Shoot for the Planet” initiative, which has received multiple awards for its innovative approach to environmental awareness, highlights the positive impact that can be achieved when knowledge meets play and direct human interaction. Through initiatives like this, Geocycle Hellas aims to strengthen environmental awareness and promote the value of recycling and the circular economy, encouraging people of all ages to become part of the change.
Lena Belsi, CEO of Geocycle Hellas commented: “Children are the future of our planet and our greatest hope for a world with stronger environmental awareness. It is truly encouraging to see the enthusiasm, curiosity and genuine interest with which the younger generation embraces recycling and seeks to understand how they can contribute to protecting the environment.
The even greater response to this year’s initiative fills us with joy and optimism, while also reinforcing our responsibility to continue creating opportunities that make environmental knowledge accessible, engaging and meaningful.
Every child who learns how to recycle properly today has the potential to become a citizen who makes a difference tomorrow. And that is our greatest achievement: turning knowledge into awareness and participation into positive change for our planet.”
