Invisible Oceans: Exploring Plankton, Microplastics, and Climate – From Microscopes to Satellites

Event Format: An event consisting of four repeated workshops per class (~ 80 students) each lasting 40 minutes. Every workshop includes a short visual presentation, hands‑on microscope observation of plankton samples, a guided worksheet, and a brief reflection on simple climate‑positive actions. Designed for lower secondary students (12–13 years old). 

Topics Covered: 

• The role of plankton in ocean ecosystems and global oxygen production
• Phytoplankton, zooplankton, and mixoplankton
• Microplastics and their impact on marine food webs
• How satellite imagery reveals ocean processes such as phytoplankton blooms
• Everyday actions to reduce plastic pollution and support climate resilience 

Objectives: 

• Increase students’ understanding of the ocean’s invisible life and its importance for the planet
• Build awareness of microplastic pollution and its connection to human activity
• Introduce Earth Observation as a tool for monitoring ocean and climate change
• Empower young people to adopt simple, realistic climate‑friendly habits