To support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and raise awareness among university students about marine ecosystem conservation, the Student Affairs Office of Macao Polytechnic University (MPU) established an “Ocean Exploration and Conservation” study group to promote marine ecosystem awareness among students, organising a visit to Hong Kong Ocean Park Academy for members of the Sustainable Development Society. Through visits and workshops, participants gained insights into marine biodiversity, pollution mitigation strategies and sustainable resource management, thereby supporting green civilisation initiatives and global environmental conservation efforts.

Guided by Ocean Park Academy’s instructors, the marine conservation study group engaged in interactive learning modules. Participants conducted close observations of aquatic species, examined marine ecosystem dynamics, analysed habitat-food chain interdependencies, and investigated climate change impacts on marine ecological balance. Students visited the “Coral Restoration Centre” to study the vital role of corals in the ecosystem and the threats they are facing. During the workshop, students explored the issues of marine resource depletion and ecological disruption, connecting these challenges to human impacts. Case studies of endangered marine life and stranding phenomena prompted students to reflect on humanity’s long-term ecological footprint.

Society members noted the event effectively illustrated civilisation’s ecological impacts, raised marine conservation consciousness, and cultivated passion for safeguarding the natural ecological system among students. They intend to incorporate environmental protection principles into personal behaviour by adopting sustainable practices such as minimising plastic consumption, selecting eco-conscious food options, and promoting green civilisation that supports sustainable development goals.

MPU students closely observed marine biodiversity

MPU students studied the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals