Learning doesn’t always have to come from textbooks, nor does it need to be strict, systematic, or imposed. Sometimes the most meaningful lessons are absorbed when we least expect it – while relaxing, having fun, or simply spending time doing what we enjoy most. Lately, I’ve noticed that even popular TV series increasingly weave in environmental messages – subtly, yet clearly enough to inspire reflection. Perhaps this quiet approach is actually one of the most effective ways to transfer knowledge.
We know that children and young people today spend a large part of their free time playing video games. This often sparks debate about their influence – with frequent criticism that games encourage violence, aggression, or passivity. But what if games could also educate and shape awareness – not through strict rules, but through play and enjoyment?
One such game was created as part of the BlueAquaEdu project, funded by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF). Unlike games where players fight villains like zombies or monsters to become heroes, the battle in BlueAquaEdu is quieter but equally important – here, the player faces bad habits and unsustainable practices developed by humans over years, which have endangered marine life. Instead of weapons, their tools are knowledge, strategy, and ecological awareness. The goal is not to defeat an enemy, but to find the best solutions together with nature – to build a fish farm that doesn’t pollute, overuse resources, or threaten plant and animal life.
But what exactly is a fish farm? It’s a controlled environment where fish are bred for human consumption – a process known as aquaculture. Today, aquaculture accounts for an increasing share of global fish production, but if not properly managed, it can negatively impact the environment – from water pollution and the spread of disease to the endangerment of wild species.
At the beginning of the game, the player is given a small, environmentally unfriendly fish farm, and throughout the game learns how to improve it in the best possible way. The aim is to reduce the environmental impact of aquaculture and minimize greenhouse gas emissions.
This game, which will soon be available, is part of a broader digital educational project focused on developing skills and knowledge in the field of aquaculture. As part of the BlueAquaEdu project, an e-learning platform is also being developed, offering innovative tools and training materials, as well as mentorship opportunities. The platform is intended for students, professors, and mentors, and through it, up to 500 individuals will have the chance to improve their knowledge of sustainable fish farming practices. In addition, the project promotes international cooperation through the organization of workshops, training sessions, and summer schools.
The core goal of the BlueAquaEdu project is to increase young people’s interest in the blue economy – all activities and sectors related to the sea and water resources, but in a way that respects the principles of sustainability and environmental protection.
Katarina Vuinac
