More than 500 students and nearly 40 teachers from 25 secondary schools in Gran Canaria will take part in the EDUSEN and EDUBLUE projects during this school year. These initiatives, led by the Canary Islands Oceanic Platform (PLOCAN), aim to raise and strengthen environmental awareness about the oceans and their conservation while connecting young islanders with the surrounding marine environment.
Other objectives of these initiatives include showcasing the potential of marine ecosystems as a source of future opportunities for the islands and highlighting innovations in marine technology and their relevance. Additionally, they aim to spark interest among young people in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
“Through these projects, which seek to inspire future generations to become advocates for marine environmental protection and sustainably explore all the opportunities this ecosystem offers, PLOCAN reaffirms its commitment to education and sustainability,” explained PLOCAN technician Teresa Holgado.
To achieve these goals, students will engage in hands-on activities such as assembling models and oceanic sensors, fieldwork involving seawater sample collection, and attending lectures delivered by specialized PLOCAN staff.
Both projects are funded by the Department of Education and Youth of the Gran Canaria Cabildo and involve PLOCAN as well as the H2VERDE and Atlantic Whale Deal projects. The allocated budget is €32,860 for EDUBLUE and €39,390 for EDUSEN.
EDUBLUE focuses on assembling a model of a floating wind or solar device integrated with renewable hydrogen generation using an educational kit. The primary goal is to compare the environmental impact of this type of energy generation with traditional fossil fuel-based methods. The project aims to measure the environmental impact of both energy types in terms of CO2 emissions and underwater noise.
This project involves 375 students and 22 teachers from 15 educational centers. It emphasizes the importance of marine renewable energies and renewable hydrogen production to strengthen the Canary Islands’ energy system while protecting the marine ecosystem. It also encourages experimentation, design, and creative problem-solving.
Responsible tourism and fostering connections with the local community—through links between schools and groups such as marine scientists, fishermen, conservation organizations, and other stakeholders—are also part of this initiative’s goals to promote marine sustainability.
EDUSEN focuses on promoting ocean literacy (understanding the reciprocal influence between oceans and humanity). Students will assemble various components of oceanic sensors and participate in field activities like water sample collection. They will learn about essential oceanographic variables (EOVs)—such as sea level, sea surface temperature, underwater noise—and their importance for ocean health. This project involves 10 educational centers with participation from 133 students and 15 teachers.
The project aims to strengthen the connection with the local environment by exploring and understanding the marine biodiversity near the islands through the use of technology such as the PlanktoScope and auxiliary materials for sample collection.
“We aim to spark scientific curiosity through the observation of microscopic organisms, help students develop technical skills through assembly and data analysis, and promote innovation and creativity through the use of technology. All of this is intended to emphasize the importance of preserving marine ecosystems and the need to implement sustainable practices,” stated Holgado.
