Ocean and Climate Literacy in Maritime High Schools

A total of 130 students from Maritime High Schools participated in a series of seminars and workshops focusing on the ocean, climate change and the blue economy, with the aim of fostering ocean and climate awareness. The activities were implemented within the framework of the “Nauticinblu” programme, strengthening students’ understanding of the complex relationship between economic development, impacts on biodiversity and the necessary transition to sustainable practices.

The Nauticinblu programme involves Maritime Institutes in Italy, Greece, Portugal and Spain and is implemented by the Italian non-profit environmental organisation Marevivo, with the support of the MSC Foundation of the MSC Group. In Greece, the programme is delivered by the Hellenic Marine Environment Protection Association (HELMEPA), highlighting the strength of this collaboration in promoting environmental education and sustainability in shipping.

In Greece specifically, 100 students from the 1st Vocational Upper Secondary School (EPAL) of Keratsini, Attica, and 30 students from the Model EPAL “Tsakos Hellenic Educational Institutions of Maritime Studies – TEENS” in Chios took part in both in-class and outdoor activities. The programme covered key marine-related topics through expert-led presentations, experiential workshops and beach clean-ups.

At the 1st EPAL of Keratsini, students followed a comprehensive five-day programme, which included an introduction to Nauticinblu, discussions on marine pollution and employment opportunities in the blue economy, a beach clean-up at Neraki Beach in Nea Peramos combined with a marine litter monitoring exercise, a mentoring session with a shipping professional, and a visit to HELMEPA member company Hellenic Environmental Center (HEC) for a presentation on waste management. The programme concluded with a design thinking exercise focused on transforming waste into useful materials, emphasising the principles of the circular economy.

Similarly, HELMEPA visited the award-winning TEENS Maritime High School in Chios, the first non-profit model Maritime High School in Greece, where students participated in a series of activities over five days. The programme began with an introductory presentation, followed by lectures on oceans and marine pollution. Students took part in a beach clean-up at Karfas, recording litter in real time, and attended mentoring sessions on career opportunities in shipping and marine sciences. A particularly distinctive component of the programme was the students’ research on local perceptions of climate change, conducted in collaboration with HELMEPA’s innovative, human-centred initiative “Chios Climate Chance”. During the closing event, students created a collective artwork inspired by the ONLY ONE Exhibition, which is now displayed on the school premises.

Testimonials

Nauticinblu aligns fully with HELMEPA’s mission, promoting understanding of the ocean’s vital role by empowering students and teachers of Maritime Institutes. This collaboration represents a valuable opportunity to measure impact and inspire future maritime professionals, offering an interactive learning experience that motivates and actively engages participants.

Semiramis Paliou

President, HELMEPA & INTERMEPA

The students and teachers who participated in the programme were enthusiastic, gained valuable knowledge and particularly appreciated the combination of in-class and outdoor activities. Teachers highlighted the programme’s innovative approach and the importance of introducing and strengthening environmental education in Maritime High Schools. We were especially pleased to participate in this educational initiative and look forward to its continuation.

Ioannis Kokkas

Director, TEENS Maritime High School

We were delighted to receive the posters of the ONLY ONE Exhibition and to implement a specialised session with our students. The exhibition helped them become familiar with English terminology related to the challenges facing the marine environment, as well as with the concepts of the circular economy and ecological transition. It encouraged them to further explore international literature and develop a more comprehensive understanding of these issues beyond Greece’s borders.

Loukia Vasilaki

English Teacher, TEENS Maritime High School

For me, the sea represents calmness, peace and freedom. The programme helped me gain a deeper understanding of the ocean, climate change and marine-related professions, particularly shipping. For women especially, choosing studies and a career linked to the sea can be challenging, as shipping remains a male-dominated sector. Through this programme, girls are empowered to pursue their dreams.

Eftychia Stringou

Student, 1st EPAL of Keratsini