New Digital Maps Bring Ireland’s Seas Into the Classroom

A new interactive, digital platform designed to make complex marine data accessible to schoolchildren has been launched by the Marine Institute.

The “Explorers Digital Marine Maps” platform includes a dedicated module, Our Ocean Our Future – Marine Spatial Planning for Kids, which allows students and teachers to explore layers of information on Irish waters, from fishing and shipping to offshore wind energy, biodiversity and protected habitats.

Minister of State for the Marine Timmy Dooley welcomed the launch and congratulated the Marine Institute team. “By making the National Marine Planning Framework and Marine Spatial Planning more accessible, we are empowering young people to become engaged and informed about the sustainable management of our marine resources,” he said.

The initiative is supported by the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment and is designed to complement classroom learning. Lesson plans and activities help pupils develop digital and interpersonal skills needed to understand and engage in marine spatial planning.

Marine Institute chief executive Dr Rick Officer said the maps transform complex marine data into a practical learning tool. “It supports access to information about how Ireland’s ocean is managed, helping students to understand important topics like sustainable development and environmental protection in a tangible way,” he said.

Peter Walsh, principal of St Conaire’s National School in Shannon, Co Clare, said the platform was a “fantastic experience” for pupils. “The digital maps make it easier for our students to visualise and understand the importance of using data and evidence for decisions about activities in our seas,” he said.

The Explorers Education Programme is funded by the Marine Institute and delivered nationally through a network of outreach partners.