SDG Stories: Marine Institute Explorers Education Programme
Earlier this year, we were delighted to have been appointed as Sustainable Development (SDG) champion for 2024-2025 by the Minister of the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan TD. We are one of only 20 organisations chosen from the public, private, community, voluntary, youth and NGO sectors who advocate and promote SDGs into their work and activities, driving Ireland’s progress toward the United Nation’s SDGs.
For the next 12 months we will be championing how we incorporate SDGs into our work, be it through our projects, our training programmes or our online activities!
The Marine Institute Explorers Education Programme is an innovative Ocean literacy programme that Leave No Trace deliver on behalf of the Marine Institute in counties Mayo, Sligo, Donegal, Leitrim and Limerick.
We are committed to shaping Ireland’s future marine leaders and ocean champions by engaging primary school children, teachers, and the broader education network.
As a committed SDG Champion, the programme is closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), making a significant impact through its emphasis on education, conservation, and community engagement.
- SDG 4: Quality Education 📚 it inspires students, teachers, and communities to develop a deeper understanding of ocean literacy and the importance of protecting marine ecosystems.
- SDG 13: Climate Action 🌡️ It raises awareness about the impact of climate change on our oceans, with proactive steps to mitigate environmental harm and promote sustainable practices.
- SDG 14: Life Below Water 🌊 Through educational initiatives and citizen science projects, it promotes the health and sustainability of oceans, seas, and marine resources.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals 🤝 By partnering with schools, coastal communities, government bodies, and environmental organizations, it amplifies its impact and integrates marine conservation into broader sustainable development strategies.
The programme is managed strategically by the Camden Education Trust and funded by the Marine Institute, Ireland’s state agency for marine research and development.
There is a range of modules including interactive activities benefiting both teachers and students alike:
- Explorers Marine Project
- Explorers Seashore Safari
- Explorers Ocean Project – a whole-school initiative.
To participate, teachers must complete the Explorers Education Programme™ application form. For further details or to book a course, visit our website or email david@leavenotraceireland.org.
