Eel in Troubled Waters
Objectives of the project
Eel in Troubled Waters aimed to help students understand the life cycle of the European eel, a critically endangered species, and use it as a way to explore the interconnectedness of water bodies.
The project focused on the importance of water for life, the integrity of the natural environment, and the economic and social development of a place. It also encouraged students to reflect on rivers, oceans, freshwater systems, dams, energy production, biodiversity, and sustainable water use.
Another important objective was to provide students from diverse cultural and social backgrounds with practical knowledge, active learning opportunities, and a stronger sense of European citizenship and responsibility towards the environment.
Activities
Students took part in presentations about the BlueLightS project, the school’s own project, and hydroelectric power production.
They attended a workshop with an invited hydrobiologist on the eel’s life cycle, the impact of dams on freshwater and coastal ecosystems, the connection between dams and the greenhouse effect, and examples of restoration and mitigation measures.
The project also included hands-on laboratory work, where students measured physicochemical parameters in a free-flowing river and an artificial lake.
Students joined field visits to the University of Thessaly, the Information Centre of the Axios Delta National Park, a hydroelectric plant, artificial lakes, and a mussel farming location.
They also conducted interviews with local fishers, fishmongers, and an expert from the mediNA organisation, researched the eel and the Aliakmon River, informed the public at a local street market, and created an e-magazine documenting their work.
Expected outputs
The project produced a logo, a banner, research materials, students’ drawings and stories, a photo album, a virtual exhibition, videos, and an e-magazine presenting the project activities and findings.
The e-magazine included research on the eel, the local river, waterpower, energy production, the impact of hydroelectric plants, and the social and cultural dimensions of rivers and water use.
The project also produced interviews, public awareness materials, a podcast on European School Radio, and a YouTube video to disseminate the project results more widely.
Impact
The project helped students develop knowledge about aquatic ecosystems, biodiversity, rivers, energy production, and sustainable use of water.
It strengthened students’ skills in research, communication, creativity, teamwork, critical thinking, leadership, and active citizenship. It also supported inclusion by giving students from socially vulnerable backgrounds, migrant backgrounds, and students with learning difficulties opportunities to participate in practical and experiential learning.
The project connected the school with local professionals, scientists, environmental organisations, and the wider community. Parents, local businesses, fishers, fishmongers, and members of the community were informed and involved through interviews, public events, online dissemination, and exhibitions.
The results will continue to be used across different subjects, including biology, history, language, literature, physics, chemistry, English, art, and ICT, and will support future environmental and water-related education activities at the school.
