On May 6 and 7, Sea the Change made the protection of the seas protagonist among the students of the Rodari Alighieri Spalatro Comprehensive Institute in Vieste, transforming classrooms into spaces of creativity and environmental education. Over 200 students were directly involved in an educational experience that combined art, science, and sustainability, to raise awareness about plastic pollution and inspire responsible behaviours from an early age.

The initiative is part of the broader mission of Sea the Change, which has always been committed to connecting businesses with marine conservation and local communities. On this occasion, our work was supported by Marinedi Group, the largest marina network in the Mediterranean, which chose our MarEdu project to generate a positive impact by bringing a culture of sustainability to the local area.

The young participants were guided by Massimo Marchiori, also known as Stari Ribar, Art & Education Coordinator at StC, who gives new life to plastic collected at sea by transforming it into works of art. Through his engaging storytelling, he guided the students on a journey that started with an explanation of the damage caused by plastic to the marine environment, and continued with learning to see it as a resource, embracing the principles of the circular economy.

The first phase consisted of a realistic simulation of waste collection. In the classroom, two large bags filled with plastic collected along the beaches were emptied: the students were able to observe, touch, and "fish out" the materials, learning about their characteristics and reflecting on their origin.

Afterwards, each student received a cardboard fish template and used caps, net fragments, and other plastic waste to create a small marine sculpture. The artwork created by the students became tangible symbols of the concepts discussed, to take home as a memory of the experience and to share with friends and family, helping to spread the messages learned beyond the classroom walls.

As Sea the Change, we designed the workshop to generate a positive impact on multiple levels. On an environmental level, we showed how waste can be transformed and reused. On a social level, we strengthened the spirit of collaboration among students. On an educational level, we provided teachers with a demonstration of a new approach that combines scientific knowledge with artistic expression.

The feedback was positive from everyone involved. The students learned the concepts and showed interest and engagement in creating the artworks; the teachers enthusiastically took part in the lessons, and Marinedi, represented by Giuseppe Di Marzio, confirmed their willingness to continue the collaboration. A new edition of MarEdu will take place at the end of May 2025, in Procida.

Attending the event were also Eleonora Mafrolla, vice-principal of the school; Luca Di Pumpo, commander of the Guardia di Finanza; Gianfranco Felline, marshal of the Coast Guard; and Maria Pecorelli, Councillor for Public Works of Vieste, demonstrating that projects with a positive impact on the territory are recognized and appreciated by those who work daily for their community.

Sea the Change will continue to invest in the future of younger generations, through new editions of MarEdu and the creation of new projects. This will be done alongside partners who share our vision, such as Marinedi Group, following an innovative educational approach based on a real commitment to protecting the sea.