Overview
For generations, humans have often failed to fully appreciate the intricate and delicate nature of coral reefs, overlooking their significance due to the lack of knowledge on these vital organisms that keep our ocean alive. Our team's journey into understanding these vital marine communities was sparked by more than just broad and shallow concerns. We recognized that it is only through educating ourselves first that we can become a reliable source of information. Not only so, but it is also through mutual learning and dialogue between the educator and the educated that new ideas have the potential to bloom. Recognizing the importance of this balance between self-education and the education of others, we decided to approach both on equal terms; neither being more important than the other. This equilibrium, in our opinion, is what fosters the most valuable ideas.
Fig. 1: The Education Cycle, which is the core of our education plan. The concept of educating ourselves and educating others highlights the inclusive characteristic of our project.
To genuinely understand and address the multifaceted challenges our oceans face, from climate change to pollution, we must recognize the symbiotic relationship between educating others and educating ourselves. The threats to marine biodiversity and the livelihoods of countless communities worldwide are profound [1]. Yet, the solution lies not just in the hands of scientists but in a collective effort. While scientists play a pivotal role, they benefit immensely from the insights and data that can be provided by the general public, especially those with specific expertise, such as divers in local communities. These individuals, equipped with firsthand experience and unique perspectives, can offer invaluable information that aids in better decision-making for teams or scientists aiming to sustain the marine environment. Our commitment to promoting coral and marine conservation is rooted in this understanding.
By educating others, we open channels of communication and feedback that enrich our own knowledge. This iterative process of learning and teaching creates a virtuous cycle: the more we educate, the more we learn, and the more equipped we become to further our educational endeavors. Our initiative to understand public awareness led us to conduct a coral public awareness survey. Surprisingly, over 50% of participants were uncertain about the government’s role in coral conservation. This revelation underscored the need for a comprehensive educational plan, prompting us to create a strategy that incorporates physical and visual activities tailored to our target audience - the youth. By doing so, we not only aim to bridge the knowledge gap but also to foster a community where learning and teaching are intertwined, driving forward the mission of marine conservation.
Youth Focus
At the heart of our mission lies a profound belief: to educate others, we must first educate ourselves. This cyclical process of learning and teaching is foundational to our approach. As we delve deeper into understanding and protecting coral reefs, we recognize that this cycle of education is a two-way street. By immersing ourselves in knowledge, we become better equipped to educate others, and in turn, their feedback and insights further refine our understanding [2].
Our focus is sharply honed on the youth, a demographic we believe holds the key to the future. While global issues invariably impact the younger generation, our emphasis on youth isn't based on this generic notion alone. Our survey results, predominantly from young respondents (89.1%), revealed a significant knowledge gap about the government’s plans concerning coral conservation. This alarming insight, coupled with our unique position as high schoolers, underscores the urgency of our mission. We possess a vantage point that allows us to understand the mindset, preferences, and communication channels of our peers. This understanding is enriched by tangible resources and opportunities, such as school networks, youth clubs, and digital platforms frequented by the youth [3].
Youth groups are not mere passive recipients of knowledge; they are pivotal stakeholders and active agents of change, eager to voice their opinions and drive transformation. By focusing our efforts on this demographic, our educational outreach achieves both breadth and depth. We're not just targeting the youth because they're the future; we're engaging them because of our firsthand insights into their preferences, such as their inclination towards hands-on, engaging physical activities. By tapping into this energy, we're not just educating them; we're empowering a generation ready to champion the cause of marine conservation and the myriad treasures our oceans hold.
Survey Assessment
Through our survey assessment, we discerned a concerning gap in the general public's understanding of coral conservation, particularly the pressing issue of coral bleaching caused by climate change [4]. For more information please visit our Human Practices Home Page. Such oversights can have dire consequences, as seen with the current coral reef damages. Recognizing this, our team's educational approach pivots on a dual axis: emphasizing the gravity of coral conservation and introducing our proposed solutions through synthetic biology.
Our journey into understanding and advocating for coral reefs has been a continuous cycle of learning and teaching. By educating ourselves, we're better positioned to educate others, and their feedback, in turn, refines our understanding and approach. This iterative process of mutual education is especially pertinent when engaging with the youth. As young scientists, we're uniquely attuned to the channels and methods that resonate with our peers. Our survey results, which highlighted the lack of awareness, further underscored the importance of our mission to educate, with a specific focus on the youth demographic [5].
SDA17
In our pursuit of understanding and conserving coral reefs, we delved deep into the intricacies of these marine ecosystems and their significance. Our research, documented in the SDA17 Essay [7], underscores the remarkable benefits of probiotics in enhancing coral health and resilience. Corals, facing threats like rising ocean temperatures and tissue loss disease outbreaks, can potentially benefit from probiotics, which have been extensively studied for their positive impacts on human health and environmental preservation.
The essay[8] begins by highlighting the severity of coral bleaching, a phenomenon exacerbated by global warming. It then delves into the potential of probiotics in mitigating the effects of bleaching and tissue loss diseases. Notably, a study from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) elucidated how probiotics can bolster coral health, aiding in their recovery from thermal stress and reducing symptoms of post-heat stress disorder [9]. Furthermore, the Smithsonian Marine Station's research on probiotics offers hope in treating coral tissue loss diseases, which have been wreaking havoc on coral populations globally. Their innovative approach, involving a probiotic-rich paste applied directly to affected coral areas, showcases the potential of probiotics in coral conservation [10].
Our collaboration with SDA17, a group of high school students championing the United Nations' sustainable goals, allowed us to disseminate this knowledge [11]. Together, we published an article emphasizing the importance of marine conservation, the challenges faced by coral reefs, and the innovative solutions at our disposal. By aligning with SDA17's objectives, we not only contributed to raising awareness but also fostered a sense of community and shared responsibility. Our aim is to inspire individuals, regardless of age, to champion marine conservation and take proactive steps towards a sustainable future [12].
In conclusion, our research and collaboration efforts underscore the importance of continuous learning and sharing knowledge. By leveraging online platforms and articles, we hope to educate a broader audience, fostering a global community dedicated to marine conservation.
View the articles online here:
Exploring the Economic Impacts of Coral Degradation on Fisheries
Different Threats to Coral Reefs
Investigating Co-culture Interactions Between Corals
Coral Reef Monitoring Software
The Daunting Social Consequences of Neglecting Damages to Coral Reefs
Coral Guardian: The Remarkable Benefits of Probiotics
View the articles online here:
Exploring the Economic Impacts of Coral Degradation on Fisheries
Different Threats to Coral Reefs
Investigating Co-culture Interactions Between Corals
Coral Reef Monitoring Software
The Daunting Social Consequences of Neglecting Damages to Coral Reefs
Coral Guardian: The Remarkable Benefits of Probiotics
National Museum of Marine Science and Technology(NMMST) & The Marine Ecology Art Research Institute
To fulfill our commitment to advancing our mission of enhanced mutual education, we embarked on a journey to the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology and the Marine Ecology Art Research Institute. We sought their expertise, given their extensive experience in public outreach on coral-related topics and their commitment to raising awareness within the general populace. Our encounter with them served as a catalyst for our aspiration to incorporate BioArt into our educational strategy—an approach validated by our survey results, which highlighted a clear preference for interactive learning experiences, a cornerstone of all BioArt activities.
The National Museum, being a government-affiliated institution, offered valuable insights into their interactions with diverse individuals. We seized the opportunity to acquire BioArt instructional techniques from the BioArt institute, leveraging their wealth of experience. During our visit, we presented and deliberated on the educational materials we had meticulously prepared for the upcoming summer camp at GEMS. We solicited their guidance in implementing effective teaching methodologies that have yielded positive results in the past.
Student Gaze
Based on the article "Cure-All Reefs: A Cure to The Distressing Decline of Coral Reefs" [13] from Student Gaze, which was constructed and written by us, our team delves into the alarming decline of coral reefs, attributing the crisis to factors such as climate change, overfishing, and coral bleaching. These vibrant ecosystems, which support 25% of marine life, are now under significant threats, leading to biodiversity loss and economic repercussions.
Motivated by the urgency of the situation and the purpose of educating themselves to subsequently educate others, our team has turned to probiotics as a potential solution to rejuvenate coral health. They highlighted the inefficiencies of current probiotic delivery methods, such as using plastic wrappings, and proposed a novel approach using the adhesive properties of biofilm, aiming to provide a scalable and environmentally friendly solution.
Incorporating their participation in the iGEM competition, the article showcases how the team applied synthetic biology principles to address real-world issues. They faced challenges related to biofilm production and ensuring the safety of their engineered bacteria in the ocean. To address these concerns, they incorporated regulatory proteins and designed a biosafety mechanism based on quorum sensing. The article underscores the critical juncture at which we stand concerning coral reef conservation and emphasizes the importance of collective action and awareness-raising efforts. By publishing on Student Gaze, a platform tailored for students, the team aimed to reach a wider youth audience, influencing their attitudes and behaviors towards preserving coral reefs. The platform's popularity among high school students from various international schools further amplified the article's reach and impact, fostering a cycle of continuous learning and awareness-raising.
By championing the ethos of educating ourselves to educate others, the Cure-All Reefs team not only amplifies awareness but also fosters a continuous cycle of learning and innovation, ensuring that each informed action paves the way for even more impactful endeavors in safeguarding our planet's delicate marine ecosystems.
View the article online here:
Cure-all Reefs: A Cure to The Distressing Decline of Coral Reefs
View the article online here:
Cure-all Reefs: A Cure to The Distressing Decline of Coral Reefs
iGEM Syn-Bio Summer Camp
In our pursuit to elevate the importance of coral conservation and synthetic biology, we recognized the need to first educate ourselves to effectively educate others. This cyclical process of learning and teaching became the cornerstone of our approach. With this ethos, we embarked on hosting a Synthetic Biology Summer Camp, aimed at nurturing students interested in synthetic biology and potential participation in future iGEM competitions. We integrated the idea of SynBio Language, which softens the limitations on the learning of synthetic biology. Art is a universal language, and through integrating it with synthetic biology we successfully opened up chances for more individuals to learn about synthetic biology. This initiative was not just about introducing them to the world of iGEM but also about demonstrating the vast potential of synthetic biology in addressing global challenges.
Our preparation for the summer camp was meticulous and informed. We consulted experienced educators from GEMS Academy and the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology to glean insights into effective educational methodologies. Their expertise provided us with valuable perspectives on tailoring our content to ensure maximum engagement and retention, especially concerning the importance of corals.
One of the standout features of our summer camp was the incorporation of BioArt. Our decision to integrate BioArt was data-driven; a survey we conducted revealed a clear preference among students for BioArt over traditional lectures. An impressive 38.6% of the 303 respondents favored BioArt, underscoring its effectiveness as a creative teaching tool. Beyond its academic advantages, BioArt transcends linguistic barriers, ensuring inclusivity in learning irrespective of a student's linguistic background. During the camp, we delved deep into the confluence of biology and art. We educated the students on the essence, objectives, and ethical considerations of BioArt, drawing from examples both from Taiwan and globally. We also showcased iGEM teams that had ingeniously integrated BioArt into their projects, such as lung sculptures and science pop-up books, highlighting the expansive canvas of possibilities within the iGEM community.
Post this immersive lesson, we introduced the students to the iGEM virtual gallery, encouraging them to think innovatively and push creative boundaries. The camp also featured interactive topic presentation sessions. Here, students had the platform to present their unique approaches to global challenges. They were encouraged to select iGEM tracks of their interest, brainstorm project ideas, and engage in critical discussions, refining their perspectives for potential future iGEM projects. Through these endeavors, we not only aimed to educate but also to inspire and empower the next generation of iGEMers, reinforcing our mission of continuous learning and teaching.
Furthermore, we incorporated the Model United Nations (MUN) activity into our Synbio Summer Camp. Our team integrated Model United Nations (MUN) principles with synthetic biology, biosafety, and global issues. This innovative approach facilitated the exploration of the intricate landscape surrounding genetically modified organisms (GMOs). By meticulously researching the positions of diverse nations on genetic modification, we furthered our knowledge of the prevailing GMO discourse. The research was interwoven into the context of the iGEM summer camp, where our focus on bioengineering and synthetic biology became a reality. The MUN framework provided a unique vantage point, reminding us to consider and think through the multifaceted challenges that each nation could potentially face. Our engagement in these deliberations went beyond mere academic interests, by researching biosafety and biosecurity, in the wet lab context, we were able to have spirited debates concerning this pivotal topic, which heightened our awareness of the varying regulations upheld by each nation. As we continued to discuss, we were met with the intersections of biosafety and bioethics between nations, underscoring the profound relevance of our discussions in these crucial domains.
Fig.2: The iGEM Syn-Bio Summer Camp.
Story Book - Nixie the Narwhal
Fig. 3: Storybook posts about Nixie the Narwhal’s journey captured from our Instagram page.
In line with our mission of educating ourselves to further educate others, our team crafted an engaging storybook design centered around Nixie (Figure 5), a charismatic narwhal. Each week, Nixie encounters challenges that mirror the real-world issues faced by corals and the marine ecosystem. By translating our research and insights into captivating storylines and vibrant pictographics, we aimed to resonate with our primary audience: the youth.
Our Instagram platform, which also features updates on our initiatives and events, became the stage for Nixie's adventures. The intention was to blend education with entertainment, making marine conservation more accessible and appealing. The positive interactions and feedback we received on our posts reaffirmed our belief in the power of creative storytelling. Through Nixie's journey, we not only disseminated knowledge but also fostered a deeper understanding, sparking curiosity and encouraging further exploration into the world of marine conservation.
Street Interview
Fig. 4: Graph presenting the summarized analysis of our street interview results.
In the infographic depicted above, we provide an insight into the outcomes of our Street Interview, illustrating participants' journey through diverse levels of questions. Rooted in our philosophy of continuous learning, where educating ourselves primes us to better educate others, we chose street interviews as an interactive, Socratic approach to engagement. This method was further reinforced by our prior survey data, which indicated a strong inclination among respondents, especially the youth, towards hands-on, interactive learning experiences.
Participants in the interview selected marine creatures, each symbolizing a set of questions from basic (level 1) to intricate (level 3). To express our gratitude for their participation, we gifted them with unique merchandise crafted by our art team. The results were enlightening: while a significant majority could tackle the basic questions, there was a marked drop in correct answers as the complexity increased. This pattern not only highlights a foundational grasp of coral facts among the Taiwanese public but also underscores the need for deeper, more nuanced education.
Our emphasis on the youth isn't merely a nod to their future role. Based on our survey findings, in which 84.5% of participants felt that Taiwan's efforts toward coral conservation were insufficient, and given our perspective as high schoolers, we understand our distinct advantage in connecting with this demographic. We're acutely aware of their mindset, preferences, and the platforms they frequent. By channeling our efforts towards this group, we're not just disseminating information; we're fostering a dialogue, leveraging their energy and passion. The youth aren't just passive learners; they're dynamic change-makers, ready to voice their concerns and drive initiatives. Our mission, therefore, extends beyond mere awareness. It's about equipping a new generation with the knowledge and tools they need to advocate for marine ecosystems and the invaluable treasures they safeguard.
Weekly Posts
Fig. 5: The collaboration, weekly, and special occasions day posts from our Instagram page.
Dive into our weekly post gallery, a testament to our commitment to the cycle of education: as we educate ourselves, we're passionate about sharing our insights, especially with the youth who are increasingly shaping the digital landscape. As the iGEM team in Taiwan, we've harnessed the power of social media, particularly Instagram, recognizing its prevalence among young audiences.
Through visually engaging slideshows, we offer weekly insights into our project, allowing our sub-teams to spotlight their latest research and experiments. From unraveling the intricacies of quorum sensing to demystifying various economic models, our posts aim to both inform and captivate.
Over the past three months, we've reached 1,196 accounts and actively engaged with over 222 of them. This digital outreach isn't just about showcasing our journey in synthetic biology; it's a strategic move to resonate with a younger audience, leveraging their online habits and the ubiquity of platforms like Instagram. Through these regular updates, we're not just charting our progress; we're fostering a community of informed enthusiasts, eager to delve deeper into the wonders of synthetic biology.
Video Series - Highlighting Youth Efforts
In today's world, the youth are not just waiting for the future; they are actively shaping the present. Their passion, dedication, and innovative approaches are making waves in the realm of environmental conservation. Recognizing the power of these young trailblazers, we embarked on a mission to amplify their voices and stories. Our video series, crafted in collaboration with youth groups like Fridays for Future Taiwan, Green4Tomorrow, SDA17, and MWCC, showcases the remarkable efforts of Taiwanese teenagers. These videos not only highlight their initiatives but also serve as a testament to the importance of self-education.
By educating ourselves about their endeavors, we are better equipped to educate others, fostering a cycle of continuous learning and advocacy. The primary aim of this series is to inspire more youths to champion marine and coral conservation, emphasizing that when equipped with knowledge and resources, they can be formidable agents of change. Through these collaborations, we've created a tapestry of stories that underscore the urgency of environmental sustainability and the pivotal role the youth play in this narrative.
View the video here
View the video here
References
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[2] Community, iGEM. (2022, September 7). Synbio: The game changer for climate tech. iGEM Blog. https://blog.igem.org/blog/2022/9/5/synbio-the-game-changer-for-climate-tech
[3] Environment, conservation, and Wildlife Organizations Market Size, outlook 2032. The Business Research Company. (n.d.). https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/environment-conservation-and-wildlife-organizations-global-market-report
[4] Published by Ian Tiseo, & 7, S. (2023, September 7). Global Climate Tech Market Size 2022-2033. Statista. https://www.statista.com/statistics/1411210/climate-tech-market-size-worldwide/
[5] Carbon credit market size, trends and forecast to 2030. Carbon Credit Market Size, Trends, and Forecast to 2030. (n.d.). https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/market-insight/global-carbon-credit-market-4382#:~:text=Such%20projects%20can%20earn%20carbon,24.4%25%20between%202023%20and%20203
[6] H2O Aquatics – the number one online retailer for all your aquatic needs. H2O Aquatics - The number one online retailer for all your aquatic needs. (2023, January 3). https://h2oaquatics.co.uk/
[7] [:en] aquaforest probiotic reef salt - aquaforest official website[:pl] aquaforest probiotic reef salt - Oficjalna Strona aquaforest[:]. Aquaforest. (2023, October 3). https://aquaforest.eu/en/product/probiotic-reef-salt/#
[8] H, S. (2023, March 22). The importance of Blue Carbon Credits. Carbon Credits. https://carboncredits.com/the-importance-of-blue-carbon-credits/
[9] Carbon offset portfolio based on science. CNaught. (n.d.). https://www.cnaught.com/
[10] Verified carbon credits to Offset Carbon. Terrapass. (2023, October 9). https://terrapass.com/
[11] LB agar, Luria Bertani agar. Lb Agar,Luria Bertani Agar - Buy Lb Agar,Luria Bertani Agar Product on Alibaba.com. (n.d.). https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/LB-Agar-Luria-Bertani-Agar_60411665682.html?spm=a2700.7724857.0.0.47748f52e2YzBm
[12] Moradi, M., Magalhaes, P. R., Peixoto, R. S., Jonck, C. C. A. C., François, D., Bellot, A. C. F., Teixeira, J. B., Silveira, C. S., Duarte, G., Evangelista, H., & Barbosa, C. F. (2023, August 23). Probiotics mitigate thermal stress- and pathogen-driven impacts on coral skeleton. Frontiers. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2023.1212690/full
[13] Chappell, J., Kinsey, D. W., Stoddart, D. R., Banner, A. J., Barnes, D. J., Buddemeier, R. W., Darwin, C. R., Davies, P. J., Delaney, M. L., Drew, E. A., Emery, K. O., & Hopley, D. (2003, April 9). The significance of coral reefs as global carbon sinks- response to greenhouse. Global and Planetary Change. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/092181819190117F?via%3Dihub