Understanding Lancaster University’s SeaSights Project and Its Impact on Youth Engagement
In recent years, the importance of including young people’s voices in discussions about coastal and marine environments has gained increasing recognition. Lancaster University, a leading institution in the UK, has pioneered efforts to empower youth through its innovative SeaSights project. This initiative highlights how creative community engagement and participatory research can influence decisions that shape our blue economy and coastal communities.
The Role of the SeaSights Project in Promoting Youth Perspectives on Coastal Development
The SeaSights project, funded by the British Academy and Leverhulme Trust, is led by Dr. Celine Germond-Duret from Lancaster University’s School of Global Affairs. Its overarching aim is to give young people living along England’s northwest coast a platform to express their views on coastal and marine issues. By focusing on areas such as Blackpool, Morecambe, Lancaster, and Barrow-in-Furness, the project seeks to bridge the gap between youth communities and decision-makers involved in the blue economy.
Using innovative methods like Photovoice — a participatory technique where participants capture images that represent their experiences and viewpoints — the project invites young people aged 13 to 19 to document what coastal life means to them. This approach not only captures authentic perspectives but also fosters active engagement, allowing youth to contribute meaningfully to discussions about local development and conservation.
Empowering Young People Through Creative Engagement and Community Voice
Unlike traditional research methods, Photovoice empowers participants to be storytellers of their own experiences. The young people involved in SeaSights took photographs of their local seaside environments, such as snowy promenades, sunsets from Jenny Brown’s Point, and scenic views of the Bay. These visual narratives offer insights into their connection with the coast, highlighting the region’s natural beauty, leisure activities, and social importance.
Participants expressed a deep attachment to the seaside, associating it with leisure, nature contact, and cultural identity. However, many also voiced concerns about the lack of facilities and entertainment options, especially in disadvantaged areas. They emphasized the need for sustained engagement with local authorities to ensure their voices inform decisions impacting their communities and environments.
The Significance of Youth Involvement in the Blue Economy and Coastal Sustainability
As global focus intensifies on the ‘blue economy’ — the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth — integrating youth perspectives is crucial. The SeaSights project addresses critical issues like ocean conservation, economic development, and social equity by demonstrating how young people’s insights can contribute to sustainable policies.
Dr. Germond-Duret emphasizes that arts and creative tools are vital in fostering connections between youth and blue spaces. Art forms like photography, painting, and sketching serve as powerful bridges, enabling young people to explore their relationship with the coast and express their aspirations and concerns effectively. This participatory approach aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those focused onDecent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), Life Below Water (SDG 14), and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10).
Dissemination and Future Outlook of the SeaSights Project
The remarkable work produced by young participants is scheduled to be exhibited at prestigious venues, including the British Academy in London, as part of the Open House festival and the ‘Living With Nature’ event. These exhibitions showcase compelling photographic narratives that reveal youth perspectives on coastal environments and their role within the blue economy.
Additionally, two research papers—one on blue justice and youth participation and another on participatory research methods—are slated for publication next year, contributing to academic and policy debates. Lancaster University continues to advocate for inclusive coastal management, where young voices are central to creating sustainable and equitable blue economies.
How How Can Communities and Policymakers Support Youth Engagement in Coastal Areas
To replicate successful initiatives like SeaSights, stakeholders should prioritize inclusive communication strategies. Regular forums, workshops, and arts-based engagement can foster dialogue between young people and local authorities. Such initiatives not only enhance community cohesion but also enrich policymaking with diverse perspectives.
Educational institutions, NGOs, and local governments can also facilitate youth involvement through dedicated programs, mentorship, and participatory projects that highlight the importance of youth agency in environmental decision-making. Technology and social media platforms further provide accessible channels for ongoing dialogue and advocacy.
Conclusion: Nurturing Youth Leadership for a Sustainable Blue Future
The SeaSights project exemplifies how innovative community-based research can elevate youth voices, promote sustainable coastal development, and foster a sense of ownership among young citizens. Lancaster University’s leadership in this realm underscores the significance of inclusive approaches that recognize young people’s vital role in shaping the blue economy.
For those interested in exploring further, Lancaster University offers a wide range of programs and initiatives aimed at promoting community engagement, sustainability, and student-led research. Engaging with projects like SeaSights demonstrates a practical pathway toward more equitable and environmentally conscious coastal management.
Learn more about Lancaster University’s commitment to sustainability and community involvement, and consider how you might contribute to shaping a sustainable future for our oceans and coastal communities.
Submit your application today or contact us for more information about our programs and initiatives that support youth engagement and sustainable development.
