On Saturday 22nd April, CEI was presented with the opportunity to participate in the annual Earth Day event hosted by One Eleuthera at Center for Training and Innovation in Rock Sound. Various research programs from Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI) and Center for Sustainable Development (CSD) worked alongside one another to spread the word about the importance of invaluable natural resources. Researchers and engineers interacted with local residents of South Eleuthera and curious visitors to share their work on marine research and sustainable efforts on our campus.
CEI research teams and CSD came up with creative displays and interactive games to not only teach others about their ongoing research projects, but to encourage fun learning about the marine environment. The Sea Turtle Research and Conservation Program shared the threats that all seven species of endangered sea turtles face and the government-generated Bahamian sea turtle ban while the Shark Research and Conservation Program explored the mysteries of the deep sea with preserved isopods and sharks. Passersby also enjoyed learning more about fish found in Bahamian waters including invasive lionfish (and how tasty they are!) and how parrotfish are important to our coral reefs as they feed on algae. CSD had a great display of alluring stations to educate visitors on organic farming and aquaponics techniques. They stole the show with their touchable bucket of black soldier fly larvae that were raised to feed the fish that fertilize their vegetables in a travel-sized aquaponics tank.
The CEI Turtle Team interns and graduate students pose with their team mascot and educational props.
CEI interns and graduate students show off some deep sea specimens to local children.
The Earth Day event had moving conservation messages, great music, delicious food, fun games, and unique booths selling local produce and homemade crafts. One of our CEI team members even learned about the art of basket weaving! The event welcomed great company who shared the common goal of environmental stewardship and making our world a better place for future generations to come. CEI and CSD look forward to participating again next year. Remember, treat every day like it’s Earth Day!
A reminder to make every day Earth Day!!