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Every year, Save the Med invites students to form teams and present creative ideas that reduce the consumption of single-use plastic.

 

The ideas range from mobile apps, to innovative product labelling systems for over-packaged food. Many students have become ambassadors for the cause and passed on their message to younger children. The project showcases the ingenuity and commitment of young environmental champions across Mallorca.

 

What is more, Changemakers extends far beyond the classroom. Top teams are selected to participate in unforgettable marine science expeditions with Save the Med. These outings provide hands-on experience in marine research and of life at sea, and an unforgettable adventure that nurtures a deep connection with the marine environment.

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All projects can be found at www.changemakersatsea.org

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"We ask people to have patience with the sea, to not throw plastic and to consider that 50% of the oxygen we breathe comes from the sea. She needs help, we must help her." - Sergi, Changemaker Junior 2023

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ACTIONS

 

• Changemakers JUNIOR - younger students aged 8 to 11 participated in marine workshops by the sea and the creation of a mini-documentary showcasing their environmental efforts.

 

• Selected teams were invited to Save the Med headquarters, where they discussed their ideas and thoughts, learnt about marine regeneration projects and put questions to Save the Med staff, all rounded off with food, drink and games.

 

• Changemakers Event: All participants were invited to attend dynamic marine regeneration workshops, with a live ceremony to present diplomas followed by food, drinks and live music.

     

The workshops included : 

• A coastal planting permaculture workshop with PermaMed 

• A blue shark conservation demonstration with SharkMed

• Interactive storytelling activity by the Plastic Free Balearics

• Immersive "Twilight Zone" experience with Save the Med.

 

• Top selected teams spent one week on-board Bonnie Lass whilst on expedition with professionals from Save the Med, helping scientists survey marine wildlife, analysing the water for microplastics and studying plastic pollution at sea. As part of the crew, the Changemakers learnt about life at sea and participated in tasks such as cleaning, cooking and navigation.

 

• We organised day trip excursions on-board the electric powered Stenella vessel, where students learnt about local biodiversity, expedition science and participated in a snorkelling activity. This year, the expedition took place in the protected waters of Sa Dragonera marine reserve. The students learned about the unique ecological habitats of Sa Dragonera and were able to experience it first hand during snorkelling activities which included underwater species identification.

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Tupa Rangel, from Save the Med’s Plastic Free Balearics Programme, engaged the students in an in-depth debate about our current throwaway culture and our patterns of consumption. Students discussed solutions to reduce and prevent waste generation through real community action and focused on what it truly means to be responsible consumers.