The Next Wave Inspires a New Generation of Baltic Sea Ambassadors in Finland

The BlueLightS project “The Next Wave”, implemented by Orivesi high school, Finland, focused on strengthening ocean and water literacy, especially by highlighting how everyday actions—even far from the coast—affect the health of the Baltic Sea.
The project included international cooperation activities, the development of educational materials, student engagement through workshops and online collaboration, and the organisation of a large Baltic Sea event in Vaasa. Through these activities, the project strengthened ocean and water literacy among young people while increasing awareness of the connection between inland actions and the wellbeing of the Baltic Sea.

Bringing Ocean Literacy into Education

A key achievement of the project was the development of educational materials for an interdisciplinary study module entitled “Our Baltic Sea.” The materials were published in English and shared through the international UNESCO Baltic Sea Project (BSP) network, making them freely available to schools and educators across Europe. The resources help students understand how everyday actions influence water systems and marine ecosystems, while supporting teachers in integrating ocean literacy into different subjects and learning environments.
International Collaboration Across the Baltic Sea Region
The project connected students from several countries around the Baltic Sea and beyond. Students from Oriveden high school collaborated through eTwinning with partner schools in Germany, Sweden, Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.

As members of the UNESCO BSP Youth Ambassadors network, students participated in national and international online meetings where they exchanged ideas, discussed environmental challenges, and explored solutions related to ocean and water literacy. These activities strengthened intercultural understanding, communication skills, and environmental awareness. BlueLightS workshops focusing on ocean and water literacy were also organised during Erasmus+ mobility visits at Oriveden high school and primary school. The workshops provided hands-on learning opportunities and encouraged students to examine the links between local actions and global environmental challenges.

A Successful Event in Vaasa

The highlight of the project was a major Baltic Sea event organised in Vaasa in May 2026 in cooperation with Vaasan lyseon high school. The event attracted around 180 participants, including students, teachers, youth ambassadors, and environmental experts. Workshops, lectures, and interactive activities focused on Baltic Sea protection, sustainability, and active citizenship. The event was organised together with the Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE), UNESCO ASPnet schools, the Finnish Nature League, and local partners. The exceptional interest in the event demonstrated the growing commitment of young people and educators to environmental action and Baltic Sea protection.

Empowering Young People for Lasting Impact

All students at Orivesi high school and Orivesi Comprehensive School were invited to participate. This ensured that opportunities for international cooperation, environmental learning, and civic engagement were available to everyone.
The Next Wave increased students’ understanding of ocean and water issues, strengthened their communication and cooperation skills, and inspired active participation in environmental action. The project also reinforced the UNESCO BSP Youth Ambassadors network and supported participation in the European Blue Schools network. Educational materials and project experiences will continue to be shared through UNESCO networks and schools across Europe.
The Next Wave increased students’ understanding of ocean and water issues, strengthened their communication and cooperation skills, and inspired active participation in protecting the Baltic Sea and other aquatic environments. When young people are given opportunities to learn, collaborate, and take action, they can become powerful drivers of positive environmental change.