This engaging and informative webinar will explore the complex life cycle of sea turtles, highlighting the significant challenges they face at different stages of their lives. From the moment they hatch and make their perilous journey to the sea, to navigating the dangers of migration across vast oceans, to the hurdles they encounter in their daily lives, participants will gain a deeper understanding of these ancient creatures' struggle for survival. The event will also feature an interactive quiz that engages students via their smartphones, and showcase innovative conservation efforts led by awardees of the "sister" projects under the EU Mission Ocean "Restore Our Ocean and Waters by 2030" - SHORE, ProBlue, Blue-Lights - and the Network of European Blue Schools

• Teachers: Especially those teaching science, environmental studies, biology, and geography.

• Students: Primarily secondary school students, though there will be content accessible to families and younger learners as well.

• Families: Encouraging a broader, community-based understanding of marine conservation efforts.

• Host Introduction: Brief introduction to the webinar’s objectives and a warm welcome to the audience.

• Overview of Sea Turtles: A quick introductory video or visual presentation on sea turtles: their species, global distribution, and importance in the ecosystem.

• Introduction to the Network of European Blue Schools: An introduction to the network and its goals—supporting marine education and sustainability initiatives across Europe.

• Keynote Presentation: Exploring the sea turtle's life cycle, from egg laying, to hatching, to the dangers of early life, and the epic migration with visual aids 

• Challenges for Hatchlings: Discussing the specific threats hatchlings face as they make their way to the sea, such as predators, artificial light, and beach erosion.

• Expert Talk on Migration: Detailinng the incredible migratory journeys of sea turtles, covering the distances they travel, their navigation skills, and the environmental threats they encounter, such as plastic pollution, fishing nets, and changing ocean temperature, with a map showing various species’ migratory paths across the Mediterranean and Atlantic Oceans.

• Showcasing Blue School Projects: A selection of innovative projects funded by the EU Mission Ocean will be presented. These projects aim to protect sea turtles and marine ecosystems by involving local communities, schools, and young people.

• Case Studies: Highlight initiatives, such as beach cleanups, awareness campaigns, and conservation programs led by Blue Schools in Mediterranean and Atlantic coastal regions.

• Impact of the Projects: Testimonials from students, teachers, and local conservationists on how these initiatives have contributed to protecting sea turtles and raising awareness.

• Interactive Polls/Quizzes: Attendees (students will participate in a live poll or quiz to test their knowledge about sea turtles and conservation.

• Actionable Tips: Simple steps that people can take to contribute to sea turtle conservation (e.g., reducing plastic use, participating in local conservation efforts, supporting sustainable tourism).

• Creative Call to Action: Encouraging schools and families to create their own local projects or campaigns inspired by the webinar.

• Final Thoughts: Summarizing the key points from the webinar, reiterating the importance of sea turtle conservation and how individuals can make a difference.

• Resources & Further Learning: Information on additional resources, organizations to support, and how to get involved with the Network of European Blue School

• Educational Pack: A downloadable resource containing:

  • Fun facts about sea turtles.

  • Key conservation tips.

  • Links to the EU Mission Ocean and Blue Schools.

  • Suggested activities for teachers to bring back to their classrooms.

  • Project templates for students to start their own conservation initiatives.

This webinar will not only inform but also inspire participants to actively engage in protecting these magnificent creatures, while fostering a deeper sense of connection with the Mediterranean and Atlantic coastal ecosystems they inhabit.