INCREASING MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS THROUGH THE CREATIVE ARTS – PHASE 3
Following the success of the first two phases, Enalia Physis continues its work to strengthen marine environmental awareness and Mediterranean Sea Literacy through the Creative Arts.
The project brings together environmental education, science and creativity to engage children aged 3–12 with some of the most important challenges facing the marine and coastal environment of Cyprus. Through experiential workshops, interactive storytelling and music, children explore issues such as marine litter, the bycatch of vulnerable marine species, the degradation of Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows, and the threats facing the endangered Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus).
Music, visual arts, movement, dance, drama and storytelling are used as powerful educational tools to help children develop not only knowledge about the Mediterranean Sea, but also a deeper emotional connection with the marine environment and a stronger sense of responsibility towards its protection.
Alongside activities for children, Phase 3 places particular emphasis on supporting educators. Dedicated teacher training seminars provide teachers with practical and creative tools for integrating Mediterranean Sea Literacy into different areas of the school curriculum and creating engaging learning experiences around marine environmental issues.
The project builds on an initiative that has already reached more than 50 schools across Cyprus and received international recognition, including the MakeEUBlue Special Award 2025, inclusion in UNESCO Ocean’s Blue Thread network, and a special mention by the BlueMissionMed initiative. The project is also part of the EU Mission “Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030” blue community.
Target activities
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Organisation of 12 creative experiential workshops for children, empowering young participants to understand the challenges facing our ocean and waters and recognise that they can be part of the solution.
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Organisation of 12 teacher training sessions, providing educators with practical tools, knowledge and creative approaches for teaching marine-related subjects through the Creative Arts and integrating marine environmental education across the curriculum.
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Organisation of two “Here Only Monachus” interactive storytelling shows with live music, dedicated to the Mediterranean monk seal and the major threats facing this emblematic and endangered species.
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Support for schools interested in joining the Network of European Blue Schools, providing practical ideas and guidance to strengthen marine and ocean literacy within their school communities.
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Participation in Marine Education and Ocean Literacy conferences during 2025 and 2026, sharing the project’s experience, educational approaches and impact with national and international audiences.
Project start date: September 2025
Total duration of project: 11 months, until July 2026
Total amount of funding: €15,000
Funded by: Cyprus Environment Foundation
Lead supporter: Intergaz Ltd
Supporter: Vassiliko Cement Works Public Company Ltd
