News

2026.5.18

Miyagi Prefecture Sendai Daisan High School led an Ocean Talk Session at WPI-AIMEC’s Office

Second‑year students from Miyagi PrefectureSendai Daisan High School hosted“Learn and Understand about the Ocean Talk Session: Considering Marine Environmental Issues Through Dialogue” on 14 March 2026 at WPI-AIMEC’s  Aobayama, Sendai office. The event brought together high school students, university students, teachers, university professors, researchers, and AIMEC members to explore how diverse groups can work together to address marine environmental challenges.

First, students from Sendai Daisan High School and Miyagi Prefecture Rifu High School presented about plastic debris in coastal areas and how ripple marks seen on beaches are formed. Prof. Kuzuhiro Shin, Kawamura Gakuen Woman’s University, delivered a lecture titled “Thinking about Marine Environmental Issues through Dialogue“. Prof. Shin discussed the importance of critical thinking, personal responsibility and “backcasting” when facing environmental challenges.  Backcasting means first envisioning an ideal future and working backwards to determine the actions needed now to achieve it.

Participants then joined mixed discussion groups to reflect on the talks and discuss how to translate research into outreach activities. Groups explored a wide range of ideas, including connecting researchers with schools, parents and university students as well as building youth networks and engaging young children in ocean literacy. Participants considered the role of the media, online tools and research transparency in broadening public awareness as well as the potential impact of government incentives, funding support, and environmental taxes. Conversations highlighted the need to address knowledge gaps and importance of mutual respect and active listening when tackling environmental issues.

The event created a friendly and inclusive atmosphere where participants of different ages and backgrounds exchanged perspectives. The dialogue format encouraged deeper reflection and strengthened connections between the diverse groups. AIMEC was delighted to support and attend this high school student-led event that promoted planetary stewardship. AIMEC encourages school students to continue developing similar events that connect science, community and action.