Protecting coral reefs through local solutions

Protecting coral reefs through local solutions

Presentation

Coral reefs, true jewels of biodiversity, are now threatened by climate change, pollution, and irresponsible human activities. This project transforms students into ecologists, scientists, and communicators to design concrete, local, and sustainable solutions to preserve these fragile ecosystems. Through an interdisciplinary investigation, they will analyze the threats facing reefs, propose specific actions, and conduct an impactful awareness campaign within their community.

Detailed structure and interdisciplinary teaching

1. Biology and ecology

Study of coral ecosystems: Understand the role of coral reefs in marine biodiversity.

Activity: Analyze microscopic images or videos of corals to identify signs of bleaching impact.

Key competency: Observe and interpret ecological stress indicators on corals.

Nature-based solutions: Explore approaches such as coral nurseries or artificial barriers.

Activity: Create a prototype of an artificial reef using biodegradable materials.

Key competency: Develop practical solutions for ecological restoration.

2. Technology and engineering sciences

Marine monitoring tools: Discover technologies used to monitor and protect reefs (drones, sensors).

Activity: Simulate drone surveillance or develop a sensor model to measure water quality.

Key competency: Integrate technologies in environmental conservation.

Digital modeling: Use software such as Tinkercad or SketchUp to design plans for artificial reefs.

Activity: Create an interactive map showing priority areas for reef preservation.

Key competency: Apply digital technologies for ecological management.

3. Geography and social sciences

Analysis of local threats: Identify local factors affecting reefs (pollution, overfishing, tourism).

Activity: Conduct surveys with local organizations or collect data on human activities in a coastal area.

Key competency: Link human behavior to environmental impacts.

Local and international cooperation: Study local and global reef conservation initiatives.

Activity: Compare conservation programs in Asia, Latin America, and Africa, then propose solutions adapted to a specific context.

Key competency: Understand the interaction between local and global actions.

4. Mathematics and economics

Economic analysis: Assess the importance of reefs for local economies (tourism, fishing).

Activity: Develop an economic model comparing the costs of reef destruction and the benefits of restoration.

Key competency: Use economic tools to support conservation arguments.

Environmental statistics: Analyze data on reef degradation and climate impacts.

Activity: Visualize data using graphs to predict future trends.

Key competency: Handle data to evaluate environmental impacts.

5. Languages (English and second language)

Research and writing: Produce a bilingual report on possible actions to protect reefs.

Activity: Read scientific articles in English and write recommendations tailored to a local audience.

Key competency: Effective written communication in two languages.

Oral presentation: Organize a simulation of an international conference on reef preservation.

Activity: Prepare presentations in English and French to defend their solutions before a mock panel.

Key competency: Master formal oral communication.

6. Arts and design

Awareness campaign: Create a series of visuals (posters, videos) to inform and mobilize the community.

Activity: Design a multimedia campaign promoting responsible behavior among tourists.

Key competency: Synthesize scientific information for the general public.

Art installation: Create a sculpture from recycled materials symbolizing the importance of reefs.

Activity: Produce a collective artwork to be exhibited in a public space.

Key competency: Harness creativity to raise awareness.

Final product

Students will present a comprehensive project at an "Oceans Festival" or a school event, including:

• A functional prototype or local solution (coral nursery, sensor).

• A visual and digital awareness campaign.

• A bilingual report and explanatory video.

• An art installation or interactive exhibition.

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Evaluation

• Formative: Monitoring research and prototypes in a logbook.

• Summative: Assessment of the campaign, proposed solutions, and final presentation.

• Self- and peer evaluation: Analysis of individual and collaborative contributions.

This project allows students to work concretely on marine ecosystem preservation while integrating scientific, technical, and artistic skills, with both a local and global perspective.