A SUMMARYThis course will take you on a 6-week journey towards a deeper understanding of our local marine environment and issues surrounding plastics pollution with the aim of empowering you to become a well-informed, positive and proactive force for change in your community.
We will begin by understanding the significance of the birds, animals and landscape of the coastline, then move on to conduct practical a beach clean project, the results of which we will analyse in a local and national context. As we relate our findings to personal experiences, as well as local, national and global issues of pollution and conservation, we start to analyse the patterns we have unearthed and gain insights into the impacts of our actions. Next, we start to look for solutions, learning plastic-free lifestyle hacks, and tips for becoming community ambassadors. Students get advice about organisations to join, movements to support, and encouragement to take practical measurable actions which make a real difference. Finally, you'll graduate with a pledge made to your continuing commitment to reducing plastic pollution, and a certificate recording your achievements.
Week One:
Connection with nature - land. This session explains the context of the Beacon Hill Nature Reserve, with a focus on local birdlife and flora.
Week Two:
Connection with nature - sea. This session explores the marine ecosystem, looking at the geology and fauna of the tidal zone, beach and rock pools.
Week Three:
Collection of plastics - practical. This week, we head outside for a beach clean, litter pick and health walk, noticing how we feel and what we find.
Week Four:
Audit and analysis - practical. Now we wash and examine the plastic waste we have captured, categorising it, and analysing it against MCS and SAS national data to understand the correlation between weather trends and pollution patterns.
Week Five:
Evaluating and finding solutions - empowerment. This session we explore personal, local, national and global solutions. Starting with our own family practices, we explore plastic-free lifestyle hacks, and shopping alternatives.
Week Six:
Commitment and moving forwards - action. In this final session, we discuss environmental organisations to join, measure the impacts of our actions, and get useful local information, before making a personal pledge and setting targets for ongoing ambassadorial actions in our communities.
All sessions take place at the Beacon Hub Education Centre, at the edge of the Beacon Hill Nature Reserve, and just inland from Rottingdean beach. This is the perfect location in which to experience the beauty, fragility and importance of British marine ecosystems.
In a small group setting, with a friendly and passionate mentor, you will develop a personal connection and understanding of the vital role each of us has in preserving and protecting our unique environment.
