Ocean Action Makes Waves: Divert NS & Discovery Centre Inspire Young Environmental Champions

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Funding Recipients

This summer, youth aged 11-14 became environmental ocean champions at the inaugural Divert NS Ocean Action Camp facilitated by the Discovery Centre. The 5-day camp, held in both Halifax and Truro, gave youth the opportunity to explore sustainability, waste reduction, and marine ecosystems through hands-on activities and exciting challenges. Topics included upcycling, ocean acidification, microplastics, marine life and more. From looking for microplastics under a microscope, to participating in shoreline cleanups, 40 youth are now prepared to take action to reduce waste and protect our oceans!

The camp featured special guest visits from Ocean Action Heroes who are featured in the Divert NS Ocean Action Zone exhibit located at the Discovery Centre. The first guest was Ishamar Senior Gentles, Environmental and Education Officer from the Municipality of Colchester who taught campers about the impacts of litter on our environment and the importance of proper waste sorting. The second guest visit was from August MacLean, Litter Programs Coordinator with Coastal Action who shared information about how to get involved in community litter clean-ups and how to protect shorelines and marine environment. 

The Ocean Action Camps were developed as part of the partnership between Divert NS and the Discovery Centre which began in 2021 with the development of the Ocean Action Zone, an interactive exhibit where visitors can explore the impacts of waste on the marine environment. In 2024, all Divert NS Ocean Action educational programming was refreshed for grades 7 & 8 and there are tons of opportunities for hands-on learning:

  • Stop by the Ocean Action Zone located in the Discovery Centre’s Murphy Ocean Gallery.
  • Learn about the impacts of textile production on climate change, the ocean, and environment with the Divert NS’ Fabric Footprints Workshop brought to your classroom through the Discovery Centre’s Science on the Road program.
  • Attend a STEAM-themed camp next summer, there are many camps to choose from, including the Ocean Action camp that will be returning for 2026.