The Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment has launched the Marine Institute’s new Explorers Digital Marine Maps platform.

A key feature is the Our Ocean Our Future – Marine Spatial Planning for Kids module, which aims to make complex marine data accessible and engaging for students and teachers.

Minister of State Timmy Dooley TD, responsible for the Marine and Fisheries, congratulated the Marine Institute on the initiative. He said the platform empowers young people to become more informed about the sustainable management of Ireland’s marine resources and helps foster a new generation of ocean stewards.

The interactive maps allow children to explore marine activities in Irish waters including fishing, offshore wind energy, shipping, and recreational use. They also highlight protected areas that conserve Ireland’s marine biodiversity and habitats.

The resource is designed for classroom use, with lesson plans and activities that develop digital literacy and interpersonal skills.

Dr Rick Officer, CEO of the Marine Institute, said the platform transforms complex marine data into an interactive learning experience and supports understanding of sustainable development. Peter Walsh, principal of St Conaire’s National School in Shannon, County Clare, said the maps help students visualise and understand national policies on energy and biodiversity in a practical way.