Field course “Sustainable Solutions for Challenges in the Mediterranean”
An interdisciplinary field course titled “Sustainable Solutions for Marine Conservation Challenges in the Mediterranean” has just concluded in the eastern Aegean. It took place aboard the research vessel Triton and at the research bases of the Archipelagos Institute on Samos and Lipsi islands. This course is part of the College Year in Athens study abroad program, involving students from top U.S. educational institutions, and is implemented in collaboration with the “International School of the Sea” of the Archipelagos Institute.
Focusing on the alarming issue of plastic and microplastic pollution affecting all levels of marine ecosystems, this educational research expedition offered students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in sampling methods in open waters along with laboratory skills for identifying the presence of microplastic fibers. The training also emphasized environmental policy and science communication, aiming to enhance understanding and raise awareness of the alarming impacts of plastic pollution on both the marine ecosystems and public health.
The “International School of the Sea” is perhaps the most significant and challenging initiative of the Archipelagos Institute, which over the past 25 years has placed the Aegean on the international map of applied education in marine research and conservation. More than 27,000 students and young scientists from around the world have been trained for undergraduate or postgraduate research (MSc, PhD) or through academic programs like the one mentioned above.
These activities leverage the extensive experience of Archipelagos Institute researchers, as well as cutting-edge technology related to field research, ecosystem and species monitoring, and marine conservation. Beyond providing knowledge and skills to the next generation of scientists, our goal is to inspire an environmental protection ethos in those who will be tasked with managing the many problems caused by our own generation.
