The Problem
Executive Summary: The Ocean, Plastic and Me - Protect Hi Monk Seals initiative aims to educate kindergartners and higher grade students and their families about the impact of plastic waste on ocean life, focusing on the endangered Hawaiian monk seal. Through hands-on activities, observations, and community engagement, this program will foster a sense of responsibility and compassion for our marine environment, empowering young participants to make a difference in their communities. My projects were inspired by education programs at Ke Kai Ola Marine Mammal Center and Monterey Bay Aquarium. Big Mahalo for sharing the resources.
Our Plan
Project Objectives •Raise Awareness: Educate families on protecting Hawaiian monk seals and the dangers of plastic waste. •Engage the Community: Encourage active observation and reporting of monk seal behavior. •Promote Responsibility: Instill recycling habits and mindful consumption. •Conservation Practices: Teach respectful behavior around monk seals and wildlife. Outcomes •Families will track monk seal activity and collaborate with Hawaiʻi Marine Animal Responsethroughout the island. •A Plastic Waste Audit chart will highlight pollution findings. •Families will create advocacy signs promoting respectful distances from seals and /or avoiding single use of plastic! •Students will design Japanese-language posters on plastic waste solutions and pledge to environmental stewardship. Final Event: A celebration where families share findings and reinforce conservation efforts using reusable materials. Impact This initiative fosters early marine conservation awareness, encouraging long-term commitment to protecting endangered Hawaiian monk seals and reducing plastic pollution.
