From May 9 to 11, 2025, the city of Guimarães came alive with the energy of young innovators during the National Eco-Digithon. For three days, ten school teams from across Portugal took on the challenge of creating digital solutions for real environmental and social issues.
The atmosphere was dynamic and fast-paced, with students brainstorming, designing, and refining their ideas all day. What began as concepts quickly grew into concrete proposals with the potential to make a real difference. Along the way, participants not only developed valuable skills in technology and sustainability, but also experienced the power of teamwork, creativity, and perseverance.
A jury of experts evaluated the projects, highlighting their originality and impact. The winning team, from Escola Secundária de Arganil, impressed with their project “Rota Ovo do Rei”, a sustainable tourism initiative centered on the wild mushroom as a symbol of forest biodiversity and local culture. Their digital solution combined an interactive app with ecotourism routes, gastronomy experiences, and direct links to local producers, aiming to reconnect people with the forest while supporting regional economies.
This innovative approach earned them first place and the opportunity to represent Portugal at the 9th Social Hackathon Umbria in Italy this July.
But the Eco-Digithon was about more than just winning. It was about collaboration, learning, and proving that young people are ready to take the lead in shaping a greener, more digital future. As the event came to a close, it left behind a strong sense of possibility and a clear message that the solutions of tomorrow are already being imagined today.
