Students of all ages and their parents are invited to participate in a “microplastics” workshop on Grattan Beach in Co Galway later this month.
The event on August 16th is being organised to increase local ocean literacy and awareness of biodiversity and plastic pollution and hosted by Galway Atlantaquaria and the Atlantic Technological University (ATU).
Named “MicroWorlds”, it is billed as a free outdoor fun educational workshop that was co-designed to explore the many hidden worlds not first visible when you walk on the beach.
Microplastic and their tiny worlds Photo: Garry Kendellen
The guided tour will involve four stations, after which the junior budding biologists will have the opportunity to complete a beach passport through learning various facts along the way, the organisers state.
The stations include:
- 1) Explore the world of the epifauna and flora - these are the many small animals and plants that are living on seaweeds on the shore - Exploring invertebrates
- 2) Walk along the shore with our biodiversity experts - Beachcombing to find the several species of shellfish found both on the beach and underneath the water offshore
- 3) Find the hidden microplastics (micro and macro) within the sand that are polluting our shores
- 4) Workout to the different forms of marine movement you have learned about on your biodiversity journey.
Dr Noirín Burke, Director of Education at the Galway Atlantaquaria said that “we are delighted to partner with our friends from the ATU on this event, and have an excuse to spend an afternoon exploring and moving on the shore’’.
ATU researcher Dr Róisín Nash said “the MicroWorld outdoor workshop is a magical day out for all, where curiosity leads the way”.
“We invite everyone to come along and explore the hidden wonders and tiny creatures of the shoreline, where science, creativity, and community meet. On the beach, participants become explorers, discovering the intricate ecosystems beneath their feet and gaining a deeper appreciation for the natural world”,” Nash said.
MicroWorlds will take place in Grattan Beach, Salthill, Galway, on Saturday, August 16th, between 4pm and 5.30pm.
