[Field Sketch] Sowing Seeds of Ecology in the Sea Breeze – The West Sea Five Islands Peace Boat Project > 게시글

 

On a breezy day in May, we set sail for the islands of Korea’s West Sea. This journey wasn’t just an environmental education program—it was part of a regional revitalization initiative, and a meaningful collaboration between eight young climate activists from Climatus College and two researchers from the Climate Change Center. Together, this 10-member team prepared and carried out a program designed to raise awareness of climate issues in some of the country’s most remote island communities.

 

First Stop: Baengnyeongdo

 

 

On Thursday, May 22, our team boarded the ferry to Baengnyeongdo. There, we visited the Youth Academy at Baengnyeong Community Welfare Center, where we met 32 elementary and middle school students for a fun and interactive education session. Through games, videos, and open discussion, we explored the realities of climate change and plastic pollution.

 

 

The highlight of the session was the hands-on upcycling activity: using discarded plastic film to make plant pots, in which the students planted air-purifying plants. This simple yet powerful experience illustrated the interconnected values of biodiversity, resource circulation, and everyday climate action. As the children decorated their plant tags and smiled with pride, the message was clear—climate action starts with small steps in daily life.

 

 

Second Stop: Daecheongdo

 

 

On Friday, May 23, we headed to Daecheongdo to meet with 18 local middle and high school students. Young climate activists shared their personal experiences with college life and environmental activities, helping the students connect their own interests with potential career paths in sustainability.

 

 

 

Following the discussion, the students also joined a plastic upcycling pot-making session, reinforcing the idea that waste can be transformed and that they too can be agents of climate action.

 

 

Shared Moments with the Local Community

 

 

That same morning, we held an environmental education and activity program at the former Satan Elementary School site, where we welcomed 60 local residents in rotating small-group sessions. Many of the participants expressed curiosity and excitement, especially as they engaged in an activity they rarely had access to before.

 

특히 ‘서

 

Our participation in the "Seopung Village Festival" added a festive spirit to the experience. The pot-making booth, open to both residents and visitors, sparked conversations about how our everyday choices are deeply connected to the health of the planet.

 

 

 

From the children of Baengnyeongdo to the residents of Daecheongdo, every person we met—and every plant pot we created together—carried a seed of ecology, a gesture of climate action, and a reminder of the power of community.

We’ve brought those winds of inspiration back to the mainland with us.

 

Climate Change Center and Climatus College will continue their work for climate resilience and sustainability.