Empowering youth through local mapping: a community-driven approach using OpenStreetMap

This paper presents the methodology and outcomes of a community-driven mapping initiative involving secondary school students across five European countries. Leveraging OpenStreetMap (OSM) as the primary platform, students tackled local environmental and social challenges through pupil-led projects. The study showcases the tools, applications, and collaborative processes used to map diverse local issues, including mountain tourist routes in Italy, urban youth needs in Spain, city greenery in Slovakia, graffiti and workout spaces in Portugal, and waste bin locations in Romania. By highlighting the significance of these projects, we illustrate how youth engagement in geospatial activities fosters critical thinking, community involvement, and practical problem-solving skills. The process presented, connecting university knowledge with secondary schools and their local contexts not only has boosted geospatial literacy but also contributed to active citizenship and sustainable development.