Protecting Natural Environments

Overfishing and pollution present a large threat to ocean species, ecosystems and human food supplies. The ocean is already at saturation point in terms of carbon absorption. The excess levels of CO ₂ not only poses the risk of poisoning oceans but also of further polluting the air and initiating extreme weather patterns leading to further droughts and flooding.

The future outcome will only be determined by action and real change. By acting and taking responsibility for the health of our planet and its oceans, we can reverse some of the damage already done. Providing information and promoting lifestyle changes are recognised as key.   Awareness of the energy used in our everyday lives and opting for cleaner energy alternatives are also recognised as important ways forward.
 

Marine Education

In Ireland, an initiative called the Explorers Education Programme has been implemented in primary schools across the country which includes a focus on marine education. The programme was developed by the Marine Institute and educators including the Galway Education Centre, Galway Atlantaquaria, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, National University of Galway, the SeaLife Centre at Bray, the Lifetime Lab in Cork, and the Connemara Environmental Centre at Letterfrack, Co. Galway. The initiatives focus on such themes as the natural environment and environmental care, marine science and history and geography and suggests how they might be taught in schools as part of the SESE curriculum.

The following links are recommended by the Marine Institute providing information on conservation, education, teaching resources and outreach programmes.

www.explorers.ie

www.irishelasmobranchgroup.org/

www.followthefleet.ie

www.primaryscience.ie

www.sherkinmarine.ie

ESONET project