Seagrass Education Academy: Creating Indonesia's Next Generation of Seagrass Advocates

The Seagrass Education Academy (SEA) wrapped up its impactful learning journey, marking an important step in developing young leaders committed to marine conservation. Designed to build knowledge and advocacy skills, the program equipped university students in Bintan with the tools to take bold steps toward becoming active advocates for the protection of seagrass ecosystems and coastal communities.

Exploring the Role of Seagrass in Coastal Sustainability

Launched as a collaborative initiative by CarbonEthics, Sustainable Ocean Alliance (SOA), and Universitas Maritim Raja Ali Haji (UMRAH), SEA is designed to raise awareness about the critical role of seagrass ecosystems in supporting marine biodiversity and sustaining coastal livelihoods.

Over the course of four hands-on sessions, students explored a wide range of topics as part of the SEA Learning Journey:

• 22 December 2024: Seagrass and the Coastal Environment

• 25 January 2025: Seagrass and Sustainable Livelihoods

• 12 February 2025: Seagrass Restoration: Techniques, Strategies, and Planting Practice

• 27 April 2025: Seagrass Monitoring and Advocacy Plan

In the final session, students were invited to apply what they had learned by designing advocacy campaigns tailored to their local communities. These campaigns focused especially on engaging elementary school students and building awareness of ocean conservation from an early age.

With mentorship from the CarbonEthics team, participants refined their campaigns through collaborative activities and creative thinking. Their final projects reflected a strong sense of purpose and a deep understanding of the importance of environmental education.

Measurable Impact and Lasting Growth

The Seagrass Education Academy produced meaningful outcomes. Students achieved a 75% increase in their knowledge assessment scores compared to their results at the beginning of the program.

In addition to this academic improvement, participants also developed valuable skills in teamwork, leadership, and technical monitoring of seagrass ecosystems. These experiences have prepared them to become effective ocean advocates in their communities and beyond.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the students, mentors, and partners who made this journey possible. Your energy and commitment have helped create a program that inspires hope for the future of our oceans and the people who depend on them.

Together, we’re nurturing the next generation of sea stewards.

Be part of the movement. Collaborate with us: carbonethics.co/partnership