ECOLEGACY MEDITERRANEAN
Reading the Blue
Reading the Blue means introducing the sea not merely as a body of water, but as a living world—one that tells stories and deserves protection. It is founded on the belief that protecting the sea begins with understanding it, aiming to transform today’s knowledge into tomorrow’s ecological legacy.
22 September 2025 – Marmaris
The second phase of the Marine Literacy Project, carried out by Ecolegacy Association in collaboration with the Muğla Metropolitan Municipality and the Bodrum Municipality, was successfully held at the Marmaris Armutalan Cultural Center.
Expert speakers including Dr. Mert Gökalp, Edhem Dirvana, and Dr. Ozan Veryeri took part in the event, sharing knowledge with participants on topics such as marine ecosystem conservation, the importance of seagrass meadows, the impacts of invasive species, endangered marine life, and coastal challenges.
In addition, interactive presentations, workshops, and a screening of the documentary Project Posidonia: Seagrass Meadows enabled participants to gain a closer and more comprehensive understanding of marine ecosystems.
23–24 September 2025 - Menteşe
The Menteşe phase of the Marine Literacy Project, carried out by Ecolegacy, was held at the Menteşe Türkan Saylan Contemporary Life Center with the support of the Bodrum Municipality and the Muğla Metropolitan Municipality.
Expert speakers including Dr. Mert Gökalp, Edhem Dirvana, and Dr. Ozan Veryeri took part in the project, sharing knowledge with students on topics such as marine ecosystem conservation, sustainable environmental awareness, the importance of seagrass meadows, the impacts of invasive species, endangered marine life, and coastal challenges.
A total of 267 students participated in the event, gaining deeper awareness of marine ecosystems through conferences, workshops, and documentary screenings.
25–26 September 2025 - Bodrum
The Marine Literacy Project was held in Bodrum on September 25–26, hosted by TED Bodrum College.
Within the scope of the project, presentations, short lectures, documentary screenings, and interactive workshops were organized for students aged 10–17, led by expert marine biologists and scientists. Students were introduced to key topics such as the importance of seagrass meadows for our coasts, invasive species and their ecological impacts, endangered marine life including sharks and rays, coastal challenges, and marine protected areas—presented in a scientific yet accessible way.
The program was structured in morning and afternoon sessions, supported by the screening of the documentary Project Posidonia – Seagrass Meadows to enhance visual learning. All activities aimed to foster environmental awareness from an early age, strengthen children’s connection with the sea, and nurture individuals who can “read” the ocean and take responsibility for its protection.
Through this project, Reading the Blue brought together knowledge, experience, and awareness—transforming the human–sea relationship into a lasting learning process.
1 October 2025 - Bodrum
As part of the International Bodrum Seafood Festival, Ecolegacy Mediterranean organized a comprehensive event highlighting the impacts of invasive species on marine ecosystems. During the event, experts discussed the ecological damage caused by invasive fish species, while also presenting examples of how these species can be utilized in sustainable ways.
Invasive species such as lionfish, soldierfish, and other non-native species were prepared using local and creative recipes and offered to participants. By bringing together gastronomy and scientific awareness, the presentations emphasized the importance of incorporating invasive species into cuisine as a way to help maintain marine ecological balance.
19 October 2025 - Bodrum
Within the scope of the Reading the Blue Project, students from Milas Kısırlar Secondary School and TED Bodrum College participated in marine observation activities focusing on seagrass meadows and fish species during sea expeditions aboard the STS Bodrum School Ship, guided by diving instructors Ecrin Burgazlı and Dr. Mert Gökalp.
By directly engaging with the marine environment, students experienced firsthand the ecological importance of seagrass meadows, identified various fish species, and developed awareness of invasive species.
These hands-on training activities were carried out with the support of the Institut Français de Turquie, in collaboration with the Bodrum METU Alumni Association and Ecolegacy Mediterranean, with logistical support from the Muğla Metropolitan Municipality. Educational and field activities aimed at strengthening marine literacy continue within the project.
Reading the Blue
5 DAYS
20 HOURS
1980 STUDENTS