YMCA Ireland’s ‘Future Generations’ group, i.e. Climate Justice Fund project 2025, continues to focus on SDG14 ‘Life Below Water’, incorporating taking action for 30% of the world’s oceans to be preserved by 2030.  

In August 11 young people from West Cork experienced a plant-based diet as part of an immersive marine education programme, Cnusach Mara (i.e. Sea Pickings) framework delivered by William Mc Elhinney (Wild Strands). These Global Citizenship Education activities with Wild Strands merged indigenous knowledge and practices into foodways, marine ecology, and the possible longer-term impacts on sustainability, well-being, and participants’ connection to nature. 

Set along Inishowen’s coastline, the programme seamlessly integrated field-based learning, cultural heritage, food sovereignty, mindfulness, and collective-oriented activities. 

The primary goal was to enhance participants’ connection with nature and the ocean while illustrating how local traditions and ecological stewardship contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

Each activity was explicitly linked to relevant SDGs:  

• Seaweed harvesting and Cooking → SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption), SDG 8 (Decent Work)
• Intertidal Safari and Mapping → SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 4 (Quality Education)
• Mindfulness Walks and Tai Chi Qigong → SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions)
• Storytelling around colonisation and Heritage Activities → SDG 11(Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities)

Read more about ‘Future Generations’ Climate Justice Project consortia project between the National Youth Council of Ireland (lead agency), Sphere17 Regional Youth Facility, YMCA Ireland, Gaisce – The President’s Award, and 1Planet4All (Concern Worldwide) at: youth.ie/climate-justice