Students and Alumni Explore Ocean Futures at Osaka's BLUE OCEAN DOME

Exploring Sustainable Futures: A Visit to BLUE OCEAN DOME

In an illuminating adventure focused on the future of our oceans, students and alumni from Karatsu Minami High School, along with members from the NPO Karatsu Farm & Food, visited the BLUE OCEAN DOME at EXPO 2025. This initiative aimed to connect the local community of Karatsu with the global dialogue on ocean sustainability and circular economies, addressing pressing issues like marine plastic waste.

A Meaningful Experience

The BLUE OCEAN DOME features the theme "Cyclical Coexistence with People and the Ocean." During their visit, participants had the unique opportunity to watch interactive video content that highlights the interconnectedness of human activity and marine ecosystems. This experience facilitated deeper understanding and engagement with critical environmental issues.

Collaboration for Change

This visit was made possible through continued collaboration following previous initiatives, such as the “Tsushima Week.” The event, organized by ZERI JAPAN, allowed the students to explore various aspects of environmental architecture, thanks to generous contributions from Saraya Co., Ltd. and Tsushima City. The pavilion stands as a testament to innovative design, blending environmental architecture curated by renowned architect Shigeru Ban and experiential designs led by Art Director Kenya Hara.

Learning Through Design

Inside the BLUE OCEAN DOME, the students engaged with design elements that communicated potent messages about the future of oceans. They marveled at installations that encouraged them to reflect on their roles in protecting marine environments. The integration of art and education demonstrates how powerful narratives can influence young minds towards responsible leadership in environmental stewardship.

A Legacy of Hope

In June this year, as part of the Tsushima Week activities, a talk session titled "The Spirits of the Waves" was held, alongside workshops where participants upcycled marine debris into creative artworks. The initiative also featured the creation of 'Wave Ema'—a wish tablet made from ocean-borne plastic, symbolically sharing hopes and dreams from the community. This endeavor sparked a wave of empathy across generations and geographic boundaries, demonstrating how local actions can resonate on a larger scale.

The tangible results of around 300 'Wave Ema' were displayed not just in Karatsu but also shared with nearby islands and schools, signifying the remarkable reach of this grassroots project. The recent visit to the expo has served as a reflective milestone, encouraging the continuation of these educational efforts and inspiring future generations.

Gratitude and Future Endeavors

The collaboration between current students and alumni from Karatsu Minami High School proved to be an enriching experience filled with learning and growth. Special thanks are extended to Saraya Co., Ltd., Tsushima City, and ZERI JAPAN for their invaluable support. Moving forward, Karatsu Farm & Food and Karatsu Minami High School remain committed to the principles of resource circulation and environmental education, aspiring to foster sustainable practices that extend from Karatsu to the wider world.

For more information, visit the official websites of BLUE OCEAN DOME and Karatsu Farm & Food for insights into their sustainable initiatives.