Marine Science Institute (ICM-CSIC) Strengthens Collaboration with Rural Schools in L’Empordà to Advance Blue Environmental Education

During the first week of February, the Marine Science Institute (ICM-CSIC) held an inspiring and highly enriching educational session with a motivated group of teachers from five rural schools belonging to #ZEREmpordà, in the region of L’Empordà, Catalonia. The meeting was marked by a strong spirit of collaboration and shared purpose, highlighting the essential role that schools play as drivers of positive change within their local territories.

The session brought together fifteen teachers from rural schools who demonstrated a deep commitment to their educational mission and a clear belief in the transformative power of education to connect students with their surrounding environment. The encounter provided a valuable opportunity to exchange knowledge and experiences on place-based science education, with a particular focus on understanding the local blue environment and strengthening the connection between rivers and the sea.

Designed as a participatory and collaborative space, the session fostered dialogue, reflection, and creativity. Participants explored practical resources, shared methodological approaches, discussed educational perspectives, and developed tailored ideas aimed at supporting classroom implementation and encouraging long-term collaboration between researchers and educators. The strong engagement and openness shown by the teachers reinforced the importance of co-creating meaningful, locally grounded educational experiences that empower students to better understand and care for their coastal and riverine ecosystems.

This initiative not only strengthened existing partnerships between the scientific community and rural schools but also opened new pathways for cooperation. By bridging research and education, the session reaffirmed that impactful environmental learning grows through dialogue, shared curiosity, and a deep connection to place.