By Reene Smith, Grenada
My experience with the Youth for the SDGs program on the Peace Boat was enriching, offering invaluable opportunities for cross-cultural connections, intergenerational learning, and collaboration with a diverse group of individuals committed to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Peace Boat excels in creating an environment for network building, which I greatly appreciated. The programs offshore were particularly insightful and informative, especially with Ocean Wise in Vancouver.
I had the opportunity to network both onboard and offshore with a variety of experts and organizations. I also gained firsthand insight into the nuclear bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, as some survivors were present on the voyage and shared their experiences and activism work to raise awareness about the devastating impacts of nuclear activities. Additionally, the Ukrainian Youth Ambassadors were on the voyage, and it was a great pleasure to network with them and learn firsthand how the current war in Ukraine has affected their lives, as well as local biodiversity and the environment. The Peace Boat voyage was indeed a valuable networking opportunity, allowing me to grow and continue advocating for the Sustainable Development Goals.
On July 8, 2024, we visited the Ocean Wise Pacific Science Enterprise Centre, gaining insights into their critical environmental work. At the Kelp Farm, Scot provided an overview of their Kelp Restoration Project, which addresses the impacts of climate change on kelp forests. These vital sea forests, which grow at a rate of up to 35 cm per day, are facing threats from rising water temperatures and ecological imbalances. The loss of sea otters, combined with an increase in sea urchins, has led to significant declines in kelp populations. There is ongoing research into the potential use of kelp as a sustainable alternative for bioplastics, though this raises concerns about potential ecosystem impacts and data gaps in kelp production.
At the Plastic Lab, Stephanie detailed the extensive analysis of microplastics, focusing on their sources and impacts on marine ecosystems. The lab studies microplastics, particularly those less than 5mm, which predominantly originate from synthetic materials and wastewater treatment facilities. Mussels are used as bioindicators to track plastic accumulation, revealing significant amounts of microfibers from clothing. The lab employs FTIR spectroscopy to identify plastic types and emphasizes reducing plastic use through practices such as gentle washing cycles and using lint catchers. Our visit concluded with a beach clean-up and water quality testing, highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat plastic pollution and protect marine environments.
On July 16th, we visited the Alaska Sealife Center and attended an insightful presentation by the Center’s staff. The presentation highlighted the history, mission, and ongoing efforts of the Sea Life Center, emphasizing its critical role in marine rehabilitation and conservation. Established as a direct consequence of the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill, the Center was initiated using settlement funds to address the extensive damage to 1,300 miles of coastline and aid in the rehabilitation of affected marine life. The Alaska Sea Life Center, the only facility in Alaska dedicated to marine rehabilitation, provides care and temporary homes for various species, including seabirds, otters, seals, and dolphins. Our visit underscored the importance of such dedicated facilities in mitigating the long-term impacts of environmental disasters and supporting marine ecosystems’ health.