Recently, at the University of Newcastle an inspiring marine education workshop was hosted by Healthy Seas as part of Hyundai’s Great British School trip. This engaging event brought together 57 school children to explore marine conservation topics.
The day started with presentations on the pressing issues of marine litter and ghost gear, along with the significance of the circular economy. Students were introduced to the dramatic consequences these problems have on marine life and ecosystems.
A highlight of the workshop was the “Meet the Divers” session, where students interacted with experienced divers, gaining first-hand insights into applied marine conservation and the wonders of the underwater world.
Creativity and engagement continued with a badge-making activity, allowing students to design marine-themed badges, symbolizing their commitment to environmental stewardship.
An entanglement game shed light on the perils of ghost gear, emphasizing the importance of responsible fishing practices and equipment disposal.
During the brainstorming session, students generated ideas about how they can contribute to combating the marine litter crisis in their daily lives, such as reducing single-use plastic, organizing clean-up events, and mending broken things before replacing them.
This workshop highlights the significance of early environmental education, inspiring the younger generation to become responsible stewards of our oceans. As these students conclude their workshop experience, they carry newfound passion for marine conservation, setting a positive example for others to follow in the fight against marine litter.
Ramona Reichert
