See you on the 7th of August.
Save the date 7th August, beach clean
We are delighted to host a beach clean up with Clean Coasts on the 7th of August at 12pm on Grattan Beach, Salthill, Galway City.
Everyone is welcome to help keep our beaches clean and we will organise a special talk on the day.
This activity is inspired by Galway City Council and its recent, Love Your Beach week campaign.
As part of the rollout of the ongoing ‘Be part of the solution, not part of the pollution’ environmental campaign, this week Galway City Council and Clean Coasts Ireland have launched a new initiative to get the public to love their local beaches.
Everyone is welcome to help keep our beaches clean and we will organise a special talk on the day.
This activity is inspired by Galway City Council and its recent, Love Your Beach week campaign.
As part of the rollout of the ongoing ‘Be part of the solution, not part of the pollution’ environmental campaign, this week Galway City Council and Clean Coasts Ireland have launched a new initiative to get the public to love their local beaches.
STEM and the Ocean
Have you ever wondered how STEM, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths can help us, monitor, protect, and create more sustainable practices for the Ocean? Watch our series of four short videos online with your class to get exploring and questioning.
Turtle Rehabiliation |
Citizen Science |
Shark Monitoring |
Food from the Sea |
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Join Padraic, as he explains how STEM can be used for animal rehabilitation, including the rescue, rehabilitation and release of sea turtles that become stranded on Irish Shores. And watch the release of Eva the Turtle being leased by the Irish Naval Services.
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Meet Anna as she explorers how monitoring species distribution, through citizen science projects, can help us monitor changes in the environment. Visit the seashore and take a look at the Smartbay Observatory in Galway Bay.
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Join Noirin as she explorers how STEM is used to monitor sharks species, including tagging Basking Sharks. Visit the nursery area in the aquarium, and learn how you can get involved by carrying out a Purse Search on the shore.
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Meet Noirin and Padraic, as they examine the science, technology, engineering and maths behind sustainable food from the ocean, include aquaculture, and fisheries.
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Inishbofin Summer School 2021
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The Inishbofin Summer School, Ireland’s longest running environmental school, has welcomed a host of scientists, poets, writers, and artists to work with teachers and the general public over the last 36 years to Inishbofin Island. The school, which is now run by Galway Atlantaquaria, continues to work with the multi- disciplined team, which this year includes marine biologists Noirin Burke and Conor Ryan, ecologist and artist Gordon Darcy, and local historian Tommy Burke.
People joining the Summer School, will experience a range of habitats, and explore new teaching and learning methodologies out in nature. They will also get the opportunity to meet a range of interesting people and have a brilliant time in this beautiful place. |
Click for Inishbofin Information to download
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The school is approved by the Department of Education and Skills* as an in-service programme for teachers, but is also open to the general public to attend. Online Booking - CLICK HERE
FEE: €150 per week, €100.00 for retired teachers.
Inquires? Contact the organiser: Email: info@nationalaquarium.ie Call: 091 585 100
FEE: €150 per week, €100.00 for retired teachers.
Inquires? Contact the organiser: Email: info@nationalaquarium.ie Call: 091 585 100
The Wreck fish Tale
A Wreck Fish Tale - Click to Watch
Galway Atlantaquaria would like to welcome five new arrivals to our aquarium family.
Wreckfish as their name suggests are often found in rocky areas with caves or even shipwrecks and can live for over 50 years growing up to 200 pounds in weight! They have a large mouth and will feed on a variety of animals such as crab, octopus and other fish.
Our Wreckfish began their journey from Southern France with what would normally be a simple operation being delayed by Covid restrictions and Atlantic storms. The professional team from Flying Sharks led by Joao Correia, completed the 35 hours journey by road and ferry, with the Wreckfish in a specially designed tank including its own filtration system. Water quality and animal welfare was continuously monitored and recorded to ensure their safe travel.
With Atlantic storms causing ferry disruption, many thanks must go to the staff at the aquarium in Le Croisic, Northern France, who expertly took care of our Wreckfish in their quarantine system while we waited for the storms to pass.
Meanwhile, Animal Manager Ian O’Grady and the aquarium team prepared our quarantine system, with procedures in place to ensure the safe and stress free transfer from the transportation tank.
On arrival, the team from Flying Sharks were met by Aquarium Manager Matthew Hawkins and our Veterinarian Felix Scholz who were on hand to assess animal welfare and the safe transfer of our new Wreckfish including the acclimation of water parameters such as pH and temperature.
The Wreckfish remained in quarantine for a number of weeks, quickly becoming a hit with the aquarium staff. During this time their health and welfare were monitored by Ian and Felix and a feeding program was introduced.
Under the supervision of Felix, the Wreckfish were moved to their new exhibit, the Ocean Tank which is deep and rocky to represent their habitat in the wild. They settled in very quickly with the Bass and Gilthead Bream in the tank and are thriving with an enrichment and feeding program designed by the aquarium staff.
Special thanks to Joao at Flying Sharks, Stephane at Ocearium du Croisic and Felix at Fish Vet Group for all their help making this a successful journey.
The staff at Galway Atlantaquaria and of course the Wreckfish, are looking forward to welcoming our visitors back and we hope you enjoy our new arrivals as much as we do.
Wreckfish as their name suggests are often found in rocky areas with caves or even shipwrecks and can live for over 50 years growing up to 200 pounds in weight! They have a large mouth and will feed on a variety of animals such as crab, octopus and other fish.
Our Wreckfish began their journey from Southern France with what would normally be a simple operation being delayed by Covid restrictions and Atlantic storms. The professional team from Flying Sharks led by Joao Correia, completed the 35 hours journey by road and ferry, with the Wreckfish in a specially designed tank including its own filtration system. Water quality and animal welfare was continuously monitored and recorded to ensure their safe travel.
With Atlantic storms causing ferry disruption, many thanks must go to the staff at the aquarium in Le Croisic, Northern France, who expertly took care of our Wreckfish in their quarantine system while we waited for the storms to pass.
Meanwhile, Animal Manager Ian O’Grady and the aquarium team prepared our quarantine system, with procedures in place to ensure the safe and stress free transfer from the transportation tank.
On arrival, the team from Flying Sharks were met by Aquarium Manager Matthew Hawkins and our Veterinarian Felix Scholz who were on hand to assess animal welfare and the safe transfer of our new Wreckfish including the acclimation of water parameters such as pH and temperature.
The Wreckfish remained in quarantine for a number of weeks, quickly becoming a hit with the aquarium staff. During this time their health and welfare were monitored by Ian and Felix and a feeding program was introduced.
Under the supervision of Felix, the Wreckfish were moved to their new exhibit, the Ocean Tank which is deep and rocky to represent their habitat in the wild. They settled in very quickly with the Bass and Gilthead Bream in the tank and are thriving with an enrichment and feeding program designed by the aquarium staff.
Special thanks to Joao at Flying Sharks, Stephane at Ocearium du Croisic and Felix at Fish Vet Group for all their help making this a successful journey.
The staff at Galway Atlantaquaria and of course the Wreckfish, are looking forward to welcoming our visitors back and we hope you enjoy our new arrivals as much as we do.
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Galway Atlantaquaria Reopens 10th May 2021
Galway Atlantaquaria lends its voice to the Global Coalition United for Biodiversity
Click the image to learn more!
On this World Wildlife Day, Galway Atlantaquaria is proud to officially join the European Commission’s Global Coalition, ‘#UnitedforBiodiversity’. The Coalition, which was launched exactly one year ago by EU Commissioner for the Environment, Oceans and Fisheries, Virginijus Sinkevičius, calls on all zoos, aquariums, botanic gardens, national parks, research centres, science and natural history museums to boost public awareness about the nature crisis. There is urgency: science warns us one million species are at risk of extinction.
Galway Atlantaquaria joins more than 200 institutions and organisations worldwide, including zoos and aquariums associations in Ireland and Europe, and also Leave No Trace Ireland and Dublin Zoo. Together we join forces to speak up for nature ahead of the crucial CoP15 meeting of the Convention on Biological Diversity in Kunming, China later this year. During this summit, the 196 Parties to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity are expected to adopt a new global framework to protect and restore nature.
Virginijus Sinkevičius - EU Commissioner for the Environment, Oceans and Fisheries said, “All species, from bacteria to mammals, plants to insects, are pieces of the big puzzle of life. They are all connected and depend on each other. Yet one species, our species, is now responsible for the climate crisis and the nature crisis, causing massive biodiversity loss. By destroying Earth ecosystems, we humans are jeopardizing our food, our health, our economy and our own future. World botanic gardens, zoos, parks, museums, research centres and aquariums show us what we need to protect and restore on this planet. We urgently need to act, at all levels, from local to global, otherwise, our only chance of seeing nature is in these institutions. That would be a failure of humankind. It is time for us to reconnect with nature.”
Galway Atlantaquaria joins more than 200 institutions and organisations worldwide, including zoos and aquariums associations in Ireland and Europe, and also Leave No Trace Ireland and Dublin Zoo. Together we join forces to speak up for nature ahead of the crucial CoP15 meeting of the Convention on Biological Diversity in Kunming, China later this year. During this summit, the 196 Parties to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity are expected to adopt a new global framework to protect and restore nature.
Virginijus Sinkevičius - EU Commissioner for the Environment, Oceans and Fisheries said, “All species, from bacteria to mammals, plants to insects, are pieces of the big puzzle of life. They are all connected and depend on each other. Yet one species, our species, is now responsible for the climate crisis and the nature crisis, causing massive biodiversity loss. By destroying Earth ecosystems, we humans are jeopardizing our food, our health, our economy and our own future. World botanic gardens, zoos, parks, museums, research centres and aquariums show us what we need to protect and restore on this planet. We urgently need to act, at all levels, from local to global, otherwise, our only chance of seeing nature is in these institutions. That would be a failure of humankind. It is time for us to reconnect with nature.”
Garry Kendellen of Galway Atlantaquaria said, “We belong to nature and the ocean, they feed us and allow us to breathe, as well as providing mental wellbeing. This time in our lives with lockdowns and pandemics should shake humanity into readjusting its course that is self-destructive and illogical. We need to change and to stand up for biodiversity.”
For over 20 years Galway Atlantaquaria has laid the foundation of education, conservation and ocean literacy as its ethos. Our Aquarium has proudly shown the diversity of life in our oceans and rivers and focuses on native Irish species. We have worked with our local community to champion clean beaches and community initiatives. We are delighted to accept the Global challenge and by adding our voice to this campaign, we invite all our partners to join the movement too!
We are focusing our pledge campaign through social media, public participation and events, as well as exhibits within the Aquarium.
We hope to bring people along and start a conversation, let’s get it done!
To learn more about the Coalition, see;
https://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/biodiversity/coalition/index_en.htm
For over 20 years Galway Atlantaquaria has laid the foundation of education, conservation and ocean literacy as its ethos. Our Aquarium has proudly shown the diversity of life in our oceans and rivers and focuses on native Irish species. We have worked with our local community to champion clean beaches and community initiatives. We are delighted to accept the Global challenge and by adding our voice to this campaign, we invite all our partners to join the movement too!
We are focusing our pledge campaign through social media, public participation and events, as well as exhibits within the Aquarium.
We hope to bring people along and start a conversation, let’s get it done!
To learn more about the Coalition, see;
https://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/biodiversity/coalition/index_en.htm
TRANSATLANTIC ROV Project Update
Our 4th Gen Prototype glides across Galway Bay.
Credit to:
Kathryn Myrsell and the team of Westport Aquarium for sharing this project with us
About
Westport Aquarium developed an idea of connecting students from America and Ireland through the ROV project. The students of both countries were to work together, sharing tips on how to build ROV’s and learn a bit about each other’s connection to the sea. We all share one ocean, but our understanding of the ocean is much different to someone who shares the same sea almost 3 thousand kilometres away!
Westport Aquarium is a historic aquarium built in 1957. It is one of the last aquariums in the country from the era of the 1940's to the 1970's where most aquariums were family operated.
Here is the story of the #TransAtlanticROV project from an Irish perspective. (click the images below to see some of the images captured during testing)
Kathryn Myrsell and the team of Westport Aquarium for sharing this project with us
About
Westport Aquarium developed an idea of connecting students from America and Ireland through the ROV project. The students of both countries were to work together, sharing tips on how to build ROV’s and learn a bit about each other’s connection to the sea. We all share one ocean, but our understanding of the ocean is much different to someone who shares the same sea almost 3 thousand kilometres away!
Westport Aquarium is a historic aquarium built in 1957. It is one of the last aquariums in the country from the era of the 1940's to the 1970's where most aquariums were family operated.
Here is the story of the #TransAtlanticROV project from an Irish perspective. (click the images below to see some of the images captured during testing)
See Galway Bay from the platform of the prototype.
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See some beautiful light and sand patterns of Galway Bay.
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New Virtual Aquarium Tour launched.
The Aquairum is delighted to launch an online aquarium tour, suitable for families and schools.
Schools can also access a zoom session for their class with an aquarium educator, and themed worksheets and activity ideas.
For more information contact info@nationalaquarium.ie and check out our trails for a taste of what the aquarium team has on offer.
Schools can also access a zoom session for their class with an aquarium educator, and themed worksheets and activity ideas.
For more information contact info@nationalaquarium.ie and check out our trails for a taste of what the aquarium team has on offer.
ARTWORK OF THE OCEAN
Check out ARTturas' collection of unique bronze sculptures currently displayed at Galway Atlantaquaria. A lot of his sculptures are influenced by his love and adoration for all things marine. The artworks are designed and casted here in Galway. ARTturas’ pieces are generally unique and form part of small collections.
Contact Details
Artturas Sculptures
PH: +353 86 225 00 09
EMAIL: hi.artturas@gmail.com
Contact Details
Artturas Sculptures
PH: +353 86 225 00 09
EMAIL: hi.artturas@gmail.com
Artturas Sculptures
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Artturas Sculptures, limited availability.
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Artturas Sculptures
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Artturas Sculptures
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Galway Atlantaquaria honored to win two Gold Biaza Education Awards
Learn more, click to open
This year Galway Atlantaquaria, in collaboration with partners from across the country were honored to receive two Gold BIAZA Awards for work carried out with the Junior Cycle for Teachers and on the 'One Small Change' project.
BIAZA, which stands for the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums, celebrates the best examples of research, conservation and education projects each year. The coveted awards recognise outstanding contributions in education directly or by inspiring others.
One award was for a collaboration of Irish zoos and aquariums working in partnership with Junior Cycle for Teachers, a Department of Education and Skills schools’ support service. The project which was entitled ‘Working together to promote BIAZA conservation education to Junior cycle teachers in Ireland’ marks a partnership between collections which has been running for over three years.
Áine Woods from Junior Cycle for Teachers explained the aim of the partnership: “We partner with a number of BIAZA collections as part of our initiative, STE(A)M in Junior Cycle. This initiative supports teachers in addressing some societal challenges with their students in both subject-specific and cross-curricular contexts. Working with BIAZA has provided opportunities for teachers to connect with expertise in the area of conservation which can ensure that learning in the classroom has real world relevance.”
Liam Twomey, Director of Galway Atlantaquaria said 'On behalf of the aquarium I am delighted to have achieved a Gold award for a project that reflected a collaborative approach involving the public , private sector and voluntary sectors , all working to a common goal. This augurs well for the future'.
The collaboration involved Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, Dublin Zoo, Fota Wildlife Park, Galway Atlantaquaria, Secret Valley Wildlife Park and Tayto Park.
‘It was incredible to work on this project’ said Dr. Noirin Burke, Director of Education at Galway Atlantaquaria. More than 30 million people generally visit BIAZA collections annually in Ireland and England, however this year many are struggling to remain open, deliver their education programmes and strive for their conservation goals. 'Working together is the only way forward I think'said Dr. Burke, who noted the dedication and passion of the staff who worked on this project.
The partnership with Junior Cycle for teachers has seen continual professional development delivered to 100’s of teachers. Topics have included Biodiversity Loss, Oceans and Sustainable Food Production.
The second award was given to the 'One Small Change Project' . The ideas and concepts of the one small change project sought to enable people to make the change from single use plastic to a more sustainable option, educate the public about marine litter and create a legacy campaign project.
Funding from Local Agenda 21, now known as the Community Environment Action Fund, from the Department of Communications, Climate Action & Environments helped ignite this project. Support from the Galway City European Green Leaf 2017 project also helped the aquarium work and collaborate with an environmental artist to create stand-alone exhibits. Oonagh Herbert of the ‘Secret Life of Plastic’, created a number of sculptures for the campaign including a marine litter crab, shark, ray, jellyfish and the most popular, the wreckfish sculpture, which were all made from plastic marine litter found on Irish shores.
“Galway City Council is delighted to support the Aquarium’s One Small Change project. The recently published Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy recognises the importance of reducing single use plastics such as drinking bottles and take away cups in everyday life – a message that is reinforced by the One Small Change project, by showing the impact of our purchasing and littering choices on marine life. As a coastal city, with two Blue Flag beaches, and the European Green Leaf designation in 2017, caring for our environment is hugely important. We are delighted the Aquarium has been recognised for this project, and encourage everyone to make ‘one small change’ in their daily lives”. Fiona Coen, Environmental Awareness Officer with Galway City Council commented.
BIAZA, which stands for the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums, celebrates the best examples of research, conservation and education projects each year. The coveted awards recognise outstanding contributions in education directly or by inspiring others.
One award was for a collaboration of Irish zoos and aquariums working in partnership with Junior Cycle for Teachers, a Department of Education and Skills schools’ support service. The project which was entitled ‘Working together to promote BIAZA conservation education to Junior cycle teachers in Ireland’ marks a partnership between collections which has been running for over three years.
Áine Woods from Junior Cycle for Teachers explained the aim of the partnership: “We partner with a number of BIAZA collections as part of our initiative, STE(A)M in Junior Cycle. This initiative supports teachers in addressing some societal challenges with their students in both subject-specific and cross-curricular contexts. Working with BIAZA has provided opportunities for teachers to connect with expertise in the area of conservation which can ensure that learning in the classroom has real world relevance.”
Liam Twomey, Director of Galway Atlantaquaria said 'On behalf of the aquarium I am delighted to have achieved a Gold award for a project that reflected a collaborative approach involving the public , private sector and voluntary sectors , all working to a common goal. This augurs well for the future'.
The collaboration involved Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, Dublin Zoo, Fota Wildlife Park, Galway Atlantaquaria, Secret Valley Wildlife Park and Tayto Park.
‘It was incredible to work on this project’ said Dr. Noirin Burke, Director of Education at Galway Atlantaquaria. More than 30 million people generally visit BIAZA collections annually in Ireland and England, however this year many are struggling to remain open, deliver their education programmes and strive for their conservation goals. 'Working together is the only way forward I think'said Dr. Burke, who noted the dedication and passion of the staff who worked on this project.
The partnership with Junior Cycle for teachers has seen continual professional development delivered to 100’s of teachers. Topics have included Biodiversity Loss, Oceans and Sustainable Food Production.
The second award was given to the 'One Small Change Project' . The ideas and concepts of the one small change project sought to enable people to make the change from single use plastic to a more sustainable option, educate the public about marine litter and create a legacy campaign project.
Funding from Local Agenda 21, now known as the Community Environment Action Fund, from the Department of Communications, Climate Action & Environments helped ignite this project. Support from the Galway City European Green Leaf 2017 project also helped the aquarium work and collaborate with an environmental artist to create stand-alone exhibits. Oonagh Herbert of the ‘Secret Life of Plastic’, created a number of sculptures for the campaign including a marine litter crab, shark, ray, jellyfish and the most popular, the wreckfish sculpture, which were all made from plastic marine litter found on Irish shores.
“Galway City Council is delighted to support the Aquarium’s One Small Change project. The recently published Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy recognises the importance of reducing single use plastics such as drinking bottles and take away cups in everyday life – a message that is reinforced by the One Small Change project, by showing the impact of our purchasing and littering choices on marine life. As a coastal city, with two Blue Flag beaches, and the European Green Leaf designation in 2017, caring for our environment is hugely important. We are delighted the Aquarium has been recognised for this project, and encourage everyone to make ‘one small change’ in their daily lives”. Fiona Coen, Environmental Awareness Officer with Galway City Council commented.
Continued
The project also worked with a range of other businesses, NGO’s and government organisations to amplify their message of making a change to sustainable options. These included Down2Earth materials, Galway City Council, Clean Coasts, Leave No Trace, Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), Clean Coasts, Voice Ireland and BINSTRAP; and it also linked to the European commission campaign called 'Our Ocean' which worked with aquariums around the world to highlight the issue of marine litter.
"We were delighted to support the Aquariums One Small Change project, As suppliers of sustainable packaging, we base our business, not just on the products we supply, but on the people that we supply them to. It was a pleasure to provide the aquarium with our knowledge and certified products, so they could ensure the success of One Small Change," John Lynch, National Account Manager and Organics Recycling Advisor Down2Earth Materials.
The One Small Change campaign was invited by the Flotsam campaign to share its goals with three schools in Oranmore and a small exhibit in Galway City Library was also conducted. A number of 'One Small Change' beach cleans were also carried out throughout the year. In a pledge to make its own one small change, Galway Aquarium reduced its own reliance on single use plastics and converted to compostable products with the support of Down2Earth Materials.
"While the fight against marine litter is an ongoing battle and we appreciate the recognition of the One Small Change campaign. The Aquarium team will not rest! Our goal is to ensure everyone understands the role they have to play in protecting our ocean, Ocean Literacy for all," Garry Kendellan, Marketing Manager, Galway Atlantaquaria.
For more information on BIAZA and the education and conservation programmes of zoos and aquariums see Biaza Awards 2020
"We were delighted to support the Aquariums One Small Change project, As suppliers of sustainable packaging, we base our business, not just on the products we supply, but on the people that we supply them to. It was a pleasure to provide the aquarium with our knowledge and certified products, so they could ensure the success of One Small Change," John Lynch, National Account Manager and Organics Recycling Advisor Down2Earth Materials.
The One Small Change campaign was invited by the Flotsam campaign to share its goals with three schools in Oranmore and a small exhibit in Galway City Library was also conducted. A number of 'One Small Change' beach cleans were also carried out throughout the year. In a pledge to make its own one small change, Galway Aquarium reduced its own reliance on single use plastics and converted to compostable products with the support of Down2Earth Materials.
"While the fight against marine litter is an ongoing battle and we appreciate the recognition of the One Small Change campaign. The Aquarium team will not rest! Our goal is to ensure everyone understands the role they have to play in protecting our ocean, Ocean Literacy for all," Garry Kendellan, Marketing Manager, Galway Atlantaquaria.
For more information on BIAZA and the education and conservation programmes of zoos and aquariums see Biaza Awards 2020
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BEST OF IRELAND TOURS |
Learn more, click on the link.
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Moher at night, courtesy of Best Of Ireland Tours.
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We are really excited to work with Niall Cleary of Best of Irelands Tours, Have a look at the wonderful options available below. #MakeABreak for the Wild Atlantic Way.
About Niall and Best of Ireland Tours
I started Best of Ireland Tours to offer people a unique and fulfilling visitor experience when they come to Ireland for a holiday. I want to show the best of what Ireland has to offer to everyone who books a tour with us. I have extensive experience in creating private tours and I work with the best tour guides to show you the unique hidden gems and famous tourist locations for which Ireland is known worldwide.
I started Best of Ireland Tours to offer people a unique and fulfilling visitor experience when they come to Ireland for a holiday. I want to show the best of what Ireland has to offer to everyone who books a tour with us. I have extensive experience in creating private tours and I work with the best tour guides to show you the unique hidden gems and famous tourist locations for which Ireland is known worldwide.
Why book a tour with Best of Ireland Tours? We can create tours for you that include hiking, cycling, heritage, adventure, music, fishing, surfing, golfing, horse riding and more. We can customise your tour to include your hobbies and interests. Travelling in one of our luxury vehicles and staying at the nicest hotel locations you will not be disappointed. Our tour guides are dedicated to making this a wonderful experience for your group.
Beautiful Clifden, courtesy of Best of Ireland Tours. Click on image to book.
Happy World Oceans Day! SPECIAL WOD LAUNCH OF OUR PUBLICATION
Click on the shorecrab to download the hi-res book!! (Please note the file is very large).
Download the smaller web based Rockpool Reflections version, click here.
ROCKPOOL REFLECTIONS - Grattan Beach, Salthill
--World Oceans Day Launch--
Happy World Oceans Day, 2020, we are delighted to present this special edition photo album that showcases a host of wonderful biodiversity found on Grattan beach, Salthill.
Rockpool Reflections includes a series of selected photographs of Grattan beach, taken over the last few months and seeks to highlight the ‘sometimes hidden’ wonders that live only feet from the shore. We wanted to highlight how special Grattan beach is, what it means to us and show it at its best, so the public would care for it more.
In developing the concept of Rockpool Reflections we were thinking of the wonderful BabaBaba Dioum, who said “In the end, we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand and we will understand only what we are taught.”
Rockpool Reflections will hopefully spark a understanding of the inherent beauty of all beaches and how we must be proactive in our developing ocean literacy and care for our environment.
We would like to say a big thank you to Dr. Kevin Lynch of NUI Galway who wrote this wonderful preface;
The world is full of wonderful and fascinating plants and animals. What a treat it is to know that we don’t have to travel the world to experience some of this wonder, it’s right here on our doorstep. The team at the Galway Atlantaquaria have put together a fabulous photographic celebration of the diversity to be found at low tide on Grattan Beach.
In our busy lives it is easy to lose our connection to the environment, and yet it provides us with so much. Our beaches and dunes protect us from storms, our shallow bays (especially Galway Bay) are ideal nurseries for young fish, our seaweeds are great at improving water quality, and the diversity of sea life increases our resilience in an ever-changing world.
There is no better way to reconnect with nature than to take part in the, always enjoyable, National Aquarium’s beach safaris. Seeing, feeling and experiencing this natural world awakens in us our caring side, and will only help in seeing ourselves as part of this big beautiful ecosystem we call planet Earth.
Dr Kevin Lynch, Head of Geography National University of Ireland Galway
ROCKPOOL REFLECTIONS - Grattan Beach, Salthill
--World Oceans Day Launch--
Happy World Oceans Day, 2020, we are delighted to present this special edition photo album that showcases a host of wonderful biodiversity found on Grattan beach, Salthill.
Rockpool Reflections includes a series of selected photographs of Grattan beach, taken over the last few months and seeks to highlight the ‘sometimes hidden’ wonders that live only feet from the shore. We wanted to highlight how special Grattan beach is, what it means to us and show it at its best, so the public would care for it more.
In developing the concept of Rockpool Reflections we were thinking of the wonderful BabaBaba Dioum, who said “In the end, we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand and we will understand only what we are taught.”
Rockpool Reflections will hopefully spark a understanding of the inherent beauty of all beaches and how we must be proactive in our developing ocean literacy and care for our environment.
We would like to say a big thank you to Dr. Kevin Lynch of NUI Galway who wrote this wonderful preface;
The world is full of wonderful and fascinating plants and animals. What a treat it is to know that we don’t have to travel the world to experience some of this wonder, it’s right here on our doorstep. The team at the Galway Atlantaquaria have put together a fabulous photographic celebration of the diversity to be found at low tide on Grattan Beach.
In our busy lives it is easy to lose our connection to the environment, and yet it provides us with so much. Our beaches and dunes protect us from storms, our shallow bays (especially Galway Bay) are ideal nurseries for young fish, our seaweeds are great at improving water quality, and the diversity of sea life increases our resilience in an ever-changing world.
There is no better way to reconnect with nature than to take part in the, always enjoyable, National Aquarium’s beach safaris. Seeing, feeling and experiencing this natural world awakens in us our caring side, and will only help in seeing ourselves as part of this big beautiful ecosystem we call planet Earth.
Dr Kevin Lynch, Head of Geography National University of Ireland Galway
Story of Sand
Inspired by Aoife Blowick's article on sand, we put together a small story of sand, enjoy.
Please read the article first, to put it into context; Story of Sand
Please read the article first, to put it into context; Story of Sand
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Three P’s Please
Galway Atlantaquaria wins Irish Water, Clean Coasts Ocean Hero Award
Galway Atlantaquaria was delighted to receive the Clean Coasts Ocean Hero Award for #ThinkBeforeYouFlush campaign supported by Irish Water.
This award is based on a commitment by local business groups to run campaigns to make people aware of what should and not be flushed down the toilet.
What is Think Before You Flush?
Think Before You Flush is a public awareness campaign about the problem sanitary products and other items can cause in our marine environment and our wastewater systems if they are flushed down the toilet. The campaign is operated by An Taisce’s Clean Coasts programme and is supported by Irish Water. The Think Before You Flush campaign invites you to join us in making small changes in your bathroom behaviour like never using the toilet to dispose of sanitary products.
This year Galway Atlantaquaria ran an awareness project with the Village Salthill business group, created a video and social media campaign to raise awareness of the issue for Think Before You Flush. The Aquarium also runs a monthly beach clean and participates in many Clean Coasts events throughout the year.
The team at Irish Water had also facilitated a visit to the water treatment plant in Mutton Island, so the Aquarium would be able to understand how our water system needs people to be more aware of the damage caused by using the toilet as a bin.
Garry Kendellen of Galway Atlantaquaria said, “We are delighted to be recognised for promoting such an important issue; however the message of #Think BeforeYouFlush needs more support from the public. We used to do a beach clean on Grattan each side of the famine memorial, but had to stop as it became too unhygienic for volunteers to clean. Only the three P’s should go into the toilet (Pee, Poo and Paper.)”
For more information about the #ThinkBeforeYouFlush Campaign see; http://thinkbeforeyouflush.org/
Galway Atlantaquaria also runs a Clean Coasts beach clean every month see www.nationalaquarium.ie for updates on the next beach clean.
Galway Atlantaquaria wins Irish Water, Clean Coasts Ocean Hero Award
Galway Atlantaquaria was delighted to receive the Clean Coasts Ocean Hero Award for #ThinkBeforeYouFlush campaign supported by Irish Water.
This award is based on a commitment by local business groups to run campaigns to make people aware of what should and not be flushed down the toilet.
What is Think Before You Flush?
Think Before You Flush is a public awareness campaign about the problem sanitary products and other items can cause in our marine environment and our wastewater systems if they are flushed down the toilet. The campaign is operated by An Taisce’s Clean Coasts programme and is supported by Irish Water. The Think Before You Flush campaign invites you to join us in making small changes in your bathroom behaviour like never using the toilet to dispose of sanitary products.
This year Galway Atlantaquaria ran an awareness project with the Village Salthill business group, created a video and social media campaign to raise awareness of the issue for Think Before You Flush. The Aquarium also runs a monthly beach clean and participates in many Clean Coasts events throughout the year.
The team at Irish Water had also facilitated a visit to the water treatment plant in Mutton Island, so the Aquarium would be able to understand how our water system needs people to be more aware of the damage caused by using the toilet as a bin.
Garry Kendellen of Galway Atlantaquaria said, “We are delighted to be recognised for promoting such an important issue; however the message of #Think BeforeYouFlush needs more support from the public. We used to do a beach clean on Grattan each side of the famine memorial, but had to stop as it became too unhygienic for volunteers to clean. Only the three P’s should go into the toilet (Pee, Poo and Paper.)”
For more information about the #ThinkBeforeYouFlush Campaign see; http://thinkbeforeyouflush.org/
Galway Atlantaquaria also runs a Clean Coasts beach clean every month see www.nationalaquarium.ie for updates on the next beach clean.
Ready To Change?
###PressRelease###
Galway Atlantaquaria, Call for a Social Ocean in a Plastic era
Are you READY TO CHANGE in the fight against marine litter?
Galway Atlantaquaria is committed to support the new EU Environment, Maritime Affairs and United Nations Environment Programme UNEP campign called World Aquariums unite #ReadyToChange #BeatPlasticPollution, 2018/19.
This campaign is supported by 102 confirmed aquariums from 32 countries, among which 63 from 20 EU countries. USA is the first country with 26 aquariums, followed by France (17), Spain (10) and UK (7).
Galway Atlantaquaria has identified the following actions to support Ready To Change, Beat Plastic Pollution;
Statement by EU Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Karmenu Vella:
The European Commission, together with the United Nations Environment Programme and with the support of the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, the European Union of Aquarium Curators, the World Association of Zoos & Aquariums, the US Aquarium Conservation Partnership and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO, announced that they will coordinate a global coalition of 200 aquariums by 2019 to raise public awareness about plastic pollution. Aquariums will be engaged in permanent activities in their facilities and in communication actions via all possible channels. They will be invited to change their procurement policies, for example in canteens and shops, to eliminate all single use plastic items. They will also be encouraged to ally with all potential partners and multipliers, such as sponsors, funders and NGOs, to maximise impact by promoting best practices in behavioural change on a local, regional, national and global scale.
World Aquariums #ReadyToChange to #BeatPlasticPollution
Some facts;
Do you know that 43% of all marine litter polluting our oceans is made up of just 10 types of single use plastic items; food containers, take away beverage cups and lids, cotton buds, cutlery (including plates, straws and stirrers), balloons and balloon sticks, packets and wrappers, beverage bottles, cigarette butts, sanitary products and carrier bags.
This litter negatively impacts on ecosystems, biodiversity and human health.
Also
80% of Marine Litter comes from land.
Our ocean needs to be a Social Ocean, one that we and our children can enjoy today and into the future.
Garry Kendellen of Galway Atlantaquaria said, “We are happy to continue support initiatives that will raise awareness of Marine Litter. Our concept of the Social Ocean, 2019 can show the benefits of a clean ocean with the support of the local community”.
Galway Atlantaquaria, is located in Salthill, Co Galway and its website is www.nationalaquarium.ie
###Ends###
Notes;
The #OurOcean campaign was developed by the EU Maritime & Fish Commission to ask Aquariums all over the world to educate the visiting public about the issues of Plastic pollution.
In 2017, Galway Atlantaquaria introduced its #OurOcean project, which included repurposing a tank to hold plastic, new signage about Plastic Pollution, video development and a social media campaign. This campaign started a host of actions including the development of the #OneSmallChange exhibit supported by a large group of stakeholders including; Project Funders Galway Green Leaf, Galway City Council, supported by Clean Coasts, BIM (Bord Iascaigh Mhara), Down2Earth Materials, VOICE Ireland, BINSTRAP and Leave No Trace Ireland.
We need to focus our attention on;
Galway Atlantaquaria, Call for a Social Ocean in a Plastic era
Are you READY TO CHANGE in the fight against marine litter?
Galway Atlantaquaria is committed to support the new EU Environment, Maritime Affairs and United Nations Environment Programme UNEP campign called World Aquariums unite #ReadyToChange #BeatPlasticPollution, 2018/19.
This campaign is supported by 102 confirmed aquariums from 32 countries, among which 63 from 20 EU countries. USA is the first country with 26 aquariums, followed by France (17), Spain (10) and UK (7).
Galway Atlantaquaria has identified the following actions to support Ready To Change, Beat Plastic Pollution;
- Promote the concept of Social Ocean through our work, talks etc.
- Continued Monthly Beach Cleans on Grattan Beach
- Ban on single use cups for events in the Aquarium, Our policy for attendees is bring your own reusable cup
- Continued promotion of better, sustainable options like compostable products
- Continued efforts on social media and other campaigns with stakeholders to meet new challenges.
- Informal Education Practise about the impacts of different kinds of single use plastic can cause.
Statement by EU Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Karmenu Vella:
The European Commission, together with the United Nations Environment Programme and with the support of the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, the European Union of Aquarium Curators, the World Association of Zoos & Aquariums, the US Aquarium Conservation Partnership and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO, announced that they will coordinate a global coalition of 200 aquariums by 2019 to raise public awareness about plastic pollution. Aquariums will be engaged in permanent activities in their facilities and in communication actions via all possible channels. They will be invited to change their procurement policies, for example in canteens and shops, to eliminate all single use plastic items. They will also be encouraged to ally with all potential partners and multipliers, such as sponsors, funders and NGOs, to maximise impact by promoting best practices in behavioural change on a local, regional, national and global scale.
World Aquariums #ReadyToChange to #BeatPlasticPollution
Some facts;
Do you know that 43% of all marine litter polluting our oceans is made up of just 10 types of single use plastic items; food containers, take away beverage cups and lids, cotton buds, cutlery (including plates, straws and stirrers), balloons and balloon sticks, packets and wrappers, beverage bottles, cigarette butts, sanitary products and carrier bags.
This litter negatively impacts on ecosystems, biodiversity and human health.
Also
80% of Marine Litter comes from land.
Our ocean needs to be a Social Ocean, one that we and our children can enjoy today and into the future.
Garry Kendellen of Galway Atlantaquaria said, “We are happy to continue support initiatives that will raise awareness of Marine Litter. Our concept of the Social Ocean, 2019 can show the benefits of a clean ocean with the support of the local community”.
Galway Atlantaquaria, is located in Salthill, Co Galway and its website is www.nationalaquarium.ie
###Ends###
Notes;
The #OurOcean campaign was developed by the EU Maritime & Fish Commission to ask Aquariums all over the world to educate the visiting public about the issues of Plastic pollution.
In 2017, Galway Atlantaquaria introduced its #OurOcean project, which included repurposing a tank to hold plastic, new signage about Plastic Pollution, video development and a social media campaign. This campaign started a host of actions including the development of the #OneSmallChange exhibit supported by a large group of stakeholders including; Project Funders Galway Green Leaf, Galway City Council, supported by Clean Coasts, BIM (Bord Iascaigh Mhara), Down2Earth Materials, VOICE Ireland, BINSTRAP and Leave No Trace Ireland.
We need to focus our attention on;
- Cotton Buds
- Carrier Bags
- Coffee cups/Lids
- Straws
- Plastic Cutlery
- Sweets & Wrappers
- Plastic Bottles
Galway Atlantaquaria is now part of EAZA
EAZA News
###PRESSRELEASE###
Galway Atlantaquaria prepares for Brexit
Galway Atlantaquaria is proud to announce, that we have been awarded FULL membership of EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquaria).
Ever since the possibility of BREXIT, Galway Atlantaquaria needed to ensure it could maintain the highest standards of animal welfare and conservation practice, as only EU (European Union) members enjoy free transportation of animals within its borders.
As Galway Atlantaquaria is already a member of BIAZA (The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums), it became essential to secure EAZA status to ensure we could work with other European zoos and Aquariums on breeding programmes when the UK to leave the European Community.
Matthew Hawkins Manager of the Aquarium said, “This award has taken many years of work from our volunteers, staff and education team. We are looking forward to continuing develop our Aquarium community, breeding, conservation and education programmes to meet the highest quality and standards expected of a professional Aquarium.”
David Williams-Mitchell EAZA Director of Communications and Membership said, “EAZA is thrilled to welcome Galway Atlantaquaria as a new Member of our community, and we look forward to working closely with them on species conservation, public education and scientific research over the long term. It’s a great institution, and one we are proud to represent.”
Galway Atlantaquaria will be making some more announcements about EAZA over the next few months and you can keep up to date on the new developments through our website and social media channels. See our website www.nationalaquarium.ie or call 091 585 100.
###ends###
Editor notes
About EAZA
The European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) is the largest professional zoo and aquarium association in the world. It was founded in 1992 to encourage cooperation between the most progressive zoos and aquariums on the continent in the areas of conservation, education and research. While cooperation on breeding programmes started in 1985, after seven years of success, zoo and aquarium directors and staff felt that there were many more opportunities for collaboration.
EAZA starts from the premise that zoos and aquariums can do better work for animals and our communities if we work together:
• Improving care and welfare for the animals in our care
• Protecting species through professional management of ex situ populations
• Contributing more to in situ conservation through funding and expertise
• Providing a greater learning experience for our visitors, and better sensitizing them to the need for conservation and sustainability
• Developing professional skills through specialist training
• Collaborating on zoological research projects, both with other zoos and aquariums and with universities and other research facilities
We believe strongly that committing to this mission will leave your institution stronger and your local community better informed about nature and more engaged with the collective effort to protect species. The success of the mission depends on open exchange of information, visualising your institution as part of a network, and participating fully in the activities of the Association.
Galway Atlantaquaria prepares for Brexit
Galway Atlantaquaria is proud to announce, that we have been awarded FULL membership of EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquaria).
Ever since the possibility of BREXIT, Galway Atlantaquaria needed to ensure it could maintain the highest standards of animal welfare and conservation practice, as only EU (European Union) members enjoy free transportation of animals within its borders.
As Galway Atlantaquaria is already a member of BIAZA (The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums), it became essential to secure EAZA status to ensure we could work with other European zoos and Aquariums on breeding programmes when the UK to leave the European Community.
Matthew Hawkins Manager of the Aquarium said, “This award has taken many years of work from our volunteers, staff and education team. We are looking forward to continuing develop our Aquarium community, breeding, conservation and education programmes to meet the highest quality and standards expected of a professional Aquarium.”
David Williams-Mitchell EAZA Director of Communications and Membership said, “EAZA is thrilled to welcome Galway Atlantaquaria as a new Member of our community, and we look forward to working closely with them on species conservation, public education and scientific research over the long term. It’s a great institution, and one we are proud to represent.”
Galway Atlantaquaria will be making some more announcements about EAZA over the next few months and you can keep up to date on the new developments through our website and social media channels. See our website www.nationalaquarium.ie or call 091 585 100.
###ends###
Editor notes
About EAZA
The European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) is the largest professional zoo and aquarium association in the world. It was founded in 1992 to encourage cooperation between the most progressive zoos and aquariums on the continent in the areas of conservation, education and research. While cooperation on breeding programmes started in 1985, after seven years of success, zoo and aquarium directors and staff felt that there were many more opportunities for collaboration.
EAZA starts from the premise that zoos and aquariums can do better work for animals and our communities if we work together:
• Improving care and welfare for the animals in our care
• Protecting species through professional management of ex situ populations
• Contributing more to in situ conservation through funding and expertise
• Providing a greater learning experience for our visitors, and better sensitizing them to the need for conservation and sustainability
• Developing professional skills through specialist training
• Collaborating on zoological research projects, both with other zoos and aquariums and with universities and other research facilities
We believe strongly that committing to this mission will leave your institution stronger and your local community better informed about nature and more engaged with the collective effort to protect species. The success of the mission depends on open exchange of information, visualising your institution as part of a network, and participating fully in the activities of the Association.
NEW exhibit launched by Galway Green Leaf & Galway Atlantaquaria
Galway Green Leaf and Galway Atlantaquaria launched its new exhibit #OneSmallChange on World Oceans Day event on Sunday 10 June.
This event includes the Artwork of Oonagh Herbert of the Secret Life of Plastic.
The exhibit was supported by an amazing group of stakeholders, government agencies , civic responsibility groups and it was launched by Pauline O' Reilly of the Green Party.
This exhibit is really important, as it carries a stark message about our dependence on singe use plastic which if unchecked will result in the ocean having more plastic than fish by 2050.
The One Small Change exhibit asks the public to make just one small change in the hopes that it can manifest into thousands of small changes that can help the ocean.
Please have a look at our story of One Small Change.
This event includes the Artwork of Oonagh Herbert of the Secret Life of Plastic.
The exhibit was supported by an amazing group of stakeholders, government agencies , civic responsibility groups and it was launched by Pauline O' Reilly of the Green Party.
This exhibit is really important, as it carries a stark message about our dependence on singe use plastic which if unchecked will result in the ocean having more plastic than fish by 2050.
The One Small Change exhibit asks the public to make just one small change in the hopes that it can manifest into thousands of small changes that can help the ocean.
Please have a look at our story of One Small Change.
| story_of_one_small_change_webversion.pdf |
Click to set custom HTML
Aquarium Cleans up at National Awards
Ocean Hero Business Award presented to Galway Atlantaquaria
Clean Coasts Ocean Hero Business Award was presented to Galway Atlantaquaria with Damien English (Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government) on 21st November 2017 at the Royal College of Physicians, Dublin to honour the invaluable contribution Galway Atlantaquaria has made towards conserving our spectacular coastline. The presence of marine litter in our oceans is a global concern that requires action and Galway Atlantaquaria has organised many beach clean-ups in Salthill since they started participating in the Clean Coasts programme in 2002. Galway Atlantaquaria is also to the fore in educating the public about the importance of conserving our oceans.
Dr. Nóirín Burke, Director of Education with Galway Atlantaquaria and Garry Kendellen Marketing with support from Clean Coasts officer Caitríona Cunnningham organised the Grattan Beach Clean and Beach Safari in June and a Big Beach Clean of Grattan Beach in September. Galway Atlantaquaria ran a Celebrate Your Shore family event in March with support from Galway City’s Green leaf programme and Near Health NUIG. The theme of the event was Clean, Connect and Create, and children participated in beach clean-ups, rock-pool safari, yoga and art activities. Galway Atlantaquaria was the first Galway Business to register under the Think Before Your Flush campaign, a public awareness campaign about the problem sanitary products and other items can cause in our marine environment and our wastewater systems if they are flushed down the toilet. The Galway Atlantaquaria promoted this campaign with other businesses in Salthill through the Village Salthill Business Association.
On receiving the Clean Coasts Ocean Hero Business Award Garry Kendellen of Galway Atlantaquaria said, “This award acknowledges how businesses can promote good practice in promoting a healthy environment, through volunteering for beach cleans, to changing behaviour through promotion of the #thinkbeforeyouflushcampaign, and running more community projects. Galway Atlantaquaria is keen to win again in 2018”.
Clean Coasts is operated by the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce and is funded by the Department of Housing, Planning, and Local Government and Fáilte Ireland.
Ends/
About Clean Coasts
Clean Coasts engages communities in the protection of Ireland’s beaches, seas and marine life. The programme is operated by the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce and is currently funded by the Department of the Housing, Planning & Local Government and Fáilte Ireland.
Clean Coasts has grown over the years and now includes two main national clean-up drives – Coca-Cola Clean Coasts Week and the Big Beach Clean. Our volunteering has expanded to include Corporate Volunteering and the Ocean Hero Awards also. Other aspects include the Green Coast Award, the Love Your Coast Photography competition, the Clean Coasts Roadshow for coastal communities and we are continuing to grow the Clean Coasts programme with the likes of Ocean Talks. The programme also operate several campaigns in Ireland including Think Before You Flush and international campaigns #2minutebeachclean and Beat the Microbead. The Clean Coasts volunteering effort engages communities in the protection and conservation of their local coastal environment. There are currently over 600 registered Clean Coasts groups. There are a variety of group types such as community groups, residents associations, tidy towns groups, sports clubs, schools, businesses, universities etc. Clean Coasts organises hundreds of beach clean-ups annually mobilising thousands of volunteers, removing considerable quantities of marine litter from Ireland’s beaches and waterway. http://www.cleancoastsireland.org/
Have a look at our volunteer work below!
Clean Coasts Ocean Hero Business Award was presented to Galway Atlantaquaria with Damien English (Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government) on 21st November 2017 at the Royal College of Physicians, Dublin to honour the invaluable contribution Galway Atlantaquaria has made towards conserving our spectacular coastline. The presence of marine litter in our oceans is a global concern that requires action and Galway Atlantaquaria has organised many beach clean-ups in Salthill since they started participating in the Clean Coasts programme in 2002. Galway Atlantaquaria is also to the fore in educating the public about the importance of conserving our oceans.
Dr. Nóirín Burke, Director of Education with Galway Atlantaquaria and Garry Kendellen Marketing with support from Clean Coasts officer Caitríona Cunnningham organised the Grattan Beach Clean and Beach Safari in June and a Big Beach Clean of Grattan Beach in September. Galway Atlantaquaria ran a Celebrate Your Shore family event in March with support from Galway City’s Green leaf programme and Near Health NUIG. The theme of the event was Clean, Connect and Create, and children participated in beach clean-ups, rock-pool safari, yoga and art activities. Galway Atlantaquaria was the first Galway Business to register under the Think Before Your Flush campaign, a public awareness campaign about the problem sanitary products and other items can cause in our marine environment and our wastewater systems if they are flushed down the toilet. The Galway Atlantaquaria promoted this campaign with other businesses in Salthill through the Village Salthill Business Association.
On receiving the Clean Coasts Ocean Hero Business Award Garry Kendellen of Galway Atlantaquaria said, “This award acknowledges how businesses can promote good practice in promoting a healthy environment, through volunteering for beach cleans, to changing behaviour through promotion of the #thinkbeforeyouflushcampaign, and running more community projects. Galway Atlantaquaria is keen to win again in 2018”.
Clean Coasts is operated by the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce and is funded by the Department of Housing, Planning, and Local Government and Fáilte Ireland.
Ends/
About Clean Coasts
Clean Coasts engages communities in the protection of Ireland’s beaches, seas and marine life. The programme is operated by the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce and is currently funded by the Department of the Housing, Planning & Local Government and Fáilte Ireland.
Clean Coasts has grown over the years and now includes two main national clean-up drives – Coca-Cola Clean Coasts Week and the Big Beach Clean. Our volunteering has expanded to include Corporate Volunteering and the Ocean Hero Awards also. Other aspects include the Green Coast Award, the Love Your Coast Photography competition, the Clean Coasts Roadshow for coastal communities and we are continuing to grow the Clean Coasts programme with the likes of Ocean Talks. The programme also operate several campaigns in Ireland including Think Before You Flush and international campaigns #2minutebeachclean and Beat the Microbead. The Clean Coasts volunteering effort engages communities in the protection and conservation of their local coastal environment. There are currently over 600 registered Clean Coasts groups. There are a variety of group types such as community groups, residents associations, tidy towns groups, sports clubs, schools, businesses, universities etc. Clean Coasts organises hundreds of beach clean-ups annually mobilising thousands of volunteers, removing considerable quantities of marine litter from Ireland’s beaches and waterway. http://www.cleancoastsireland.org/
Have a look at our volunteer work below!
| galway_atlantaquaria_join_us_in_2018.pdf |
DIGITAL OCEAN-Our Ocean Our Health exhibit
#OurOcean
#OurOcean
Galway Atlantaquaria, the first aquarium to support the #OurOcean project
On the 13th of February, 2017 Galway Atlantaquaria were contacted by the #OurOcean initiative, which asks aquariums around the Globe to participate in creating an exhibition that would highlight a number of Marine litter issues. We were very happy to join in this Global action initiative and the #OurOcean will be officially launched by EU Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Karmenu Vella on Thursday 27th July.
The context was to fill a tank with plastic and gauge the visitor’s reaction to the exhibit. As we were the first to join we felt we had to make a special effort and we hope visitors to the aquarium will enjoy our exhibit that features, signage, facts, videos and the physical #OurOcean exhibit. It is our hope that this collective world exhibit will start a conversation about Ocean pollution and more importantly encourage people to DEMAND compostable packaging and materials.
Duncan Stewart of Eco EYE, said “This exhibition is sending out a very important message. ‘Eco eye’ would like to bring your message out to a wide audience. Keep up the good work.”
“I am thrilled and inspired be the exhibit #OurOcean at Galway Atlantaquaria!
It’s clear that plastic is causing devastating damage to marine series and ecosystems.
We need to stop buying products wrapped in plastic or single-use disposable containers! Citizens need to come together collectively ‘name and shame’ the producers of products and drinks that continue to use plastic, when down2earth materials produce compostable options. We need to focus on protecting our children’s future.
I was very impressed with ‘down2earth’ compostable containers that replace plastic – a truly great Irish innovation. This exhibition is sending out a very important message!”
Facts about Ocean litter
Approximately 1.4 billion pounds of trash per year enters the ocean
Plastic is the most common element that is found in the ocean. It is harmful for the environment as it does not get break down easily and is often considered as food by marine animals.
Plastic debris can absorb toxic chemicals from ocean pollution, therefore poisoning whatever eats it. In fact, plastic pollution is one of the most serious threats to the ocean. Plastic does not degrade; instead, it breaks down into progressively smaller pieces, but never disappears. They then attract more debris. It poses a significant health threat to the various sea creatures, and to the entire marine ecosystem. Overall, plastic is the number one source of pollution in the ocean.
We would like to thank Clean Coasts and down2earthmaterials for supporting this project.
For more information about this project, please see our website www.nationalaquarium.ie
For more information about down2earth materials please see; http://www.down2earthmaterials.ie/
For more information about Clean Coasts please see; http://cleancoasts.org/
If you have any comments about the exhibit, please contact garry@nationalaquarium.ie directly.
###ends###
Galway Atlantaquaria, the first aquarium to support the #OurOcean project
On the 13th of February, 2017 Galway Atlantaquaria were contacted by the #OurOcean initiative, which asks aquariums around the Globe to participate in creating an exhibition that would highlight a number of Marine litter issues. We were very happy to join in this Global action initiative and the #OurOcean will be officially launched by EU Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Karmenu Vella on Thursday 27th July.
The context was to fill a tank with plastic and gauge the visitor’s reaction to the exhibit. As we were the first to join we felt we had to make a special effort and we hope visitors to the aquarium will enjoy our exhibit that features, signage, facts, videos and the physical #OurOcean exhibit. It is our hope that this collective world exhibit will start a conversation about Ocean pollution and more importantly encourage people to DEMAND compostable packaging and materials.
Duncan Stewart of Eco EYE, said “This exhibition is sending out a very important message. ‘Eco eye’ would like to bring your message out to a wide audience. Keep up the good work.”
“I am thrilled and inspired be the exhibit #OurOcean at Galway Atlantaquaria!
It’s clear that plastic is causing devastating damage to marine series and ecosystems.
We need to stop buying products wrapped in plastic or single-use disposable containers! Citizens need to come together collectively ‘name and shame’ the producers of products and drinks that continue to use plastic, when down2earth materials produce compostable options. We need to focus on protecting our children’s future.
I was very impressed with ‘down2earth’ compostable containers that replace plastic – a truly great Irish innovation. This exhibition is sending out a very important message!”
Facts about Ocean litter
Approximately 1.4 billion pounds of trash per year enters the ocean
Plastic is the most common element that is found in the ocean. It is harmful for the environment as it does not get break down easily and is often considered as food by marine animals.
Plastic debris can absorb toxic chemicals from ocean pollution, therefore poisoning whatever eats it. In fact, plastic pollution is one of the most serious threats to the ocean. Plastic does not degrade; instead, it breaks down into progressively smaller pieces, but never disappears. They then attract more debris. It poses a significant health threat to the various sea creatures, and to the entire marine ecosystem. Overall, plastic is the number one source of pollution in the ocean.
We would like to thank Clean Coasts and down2earthmaterials for supporting this project.
For more information about this project, please see our website www.nationalaquarium.ie
For more information about down2earth materials please see; http://www.down2earthmaterials.ie/
For more information about Clean Coasts please see; http://cleancoasts.org/
If you have any comments about the exhibit, please contact garry@nationalaquarium.ie directly.
###ends###
Behind the scenes of #OurOcean
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Please enjoy this 'behind the scenes' evaluation, it's all about the process and ideas behind our exhibit!
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#OurOcean factsheet
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Download and share the factsheet!
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Cleggan book, post release!
####PressRelease####
26/04/2017
Cleggan book launch our history, our sense of place
Galway Atlantaquaria launched its first publication ‘our history our sense of place’ at the Cleggan secondary school Scoil Naisiunta Na Naomh Uile this week. The book was inspired by an Explorers Education™ marine project, and funding from Local Agenda 21 was secured to transform the marine project into a full colour publication.
The launch was attended by the local community, as well as representatives from the city and county council.
Sean Kyne Minister of state for Gaeltacht Affairs and Natural Resources spoke directly to the young people, and acknowledged the great work they had put into the book. Mr Des Lally of the Clifden arts festival loved the book and told the schoolchildren that “they were all artists and should be proud of their achievement”.
This was a very joyful and fun occasion as music and food was provided for all the attendees.
Garry Kendellen of Galway Atlantaquaria recorded some of the feedback from the people of Cleggan. They were delighted with the publication and they believe that this book will encourage more people to visit Cleggan for the true Wild Atlantic Way experience of discovery and adventure.
Caitriona Cunningham of Clean Coasts, also acknowledged the key message in the publication, which was “It was great to see the young people writing about their community and promoting the importance of the marine environment for health and leisure, as well as the book including the Clean Coasts initiative #2minutebeachclean”.
Now that the book is launched it will seek to promote local tourism and interest in the Wild Atlantic Way, as a means of finding some of the ‘gems’ along its route. As the publication is designed and developed through local knowledge it shows off some of the local, historic, cultural, traditional and marine heritage of just one of the many villages along the Wild Atlantic Way route.
The Cleggan Book will be free to download from the website www.nationalaquarium.ie
For more information about the launch and book we will be posting more updates on our social media.
#####Ends#####
26/04/2017
Cleggan book launch our history, our sense of place
Galway Atlantaquaria launched its first publication ‘our history our sense of place’ at the Cleggan secondary school Scoil Naisiunta Na Naomh Uile this week. The book was inspired by an Explorers Education™ marine project, and funding from Local Agenda 21 was secured to transform the marine project into a full colour publication.
The launch was attended by the local community, as well as representatives from the city and county council.
Sean Kyne Minister of state for Gaeltacht Affairs and Natural Resources spoke directly to the young people, and acknowledged the great work they had put into the book. Mr Des Lally of the Clifden arts festival loved the book and told the schoolchildren that “they were all artists and should be proud of their achievement”.
This was a very joyful and fun occasion as music and food was provided for all the attendees.
Garry Kendellen of Galway Atlantaquaria recorded some of the feedback from the people of Cleggan. They were delighted with the publication and they believe that this book will encourage more people to visit Cleggan for the true Wild Atlantic Way experience of discovery and adventure.
Caitriona Cunningham of Clean Coasts, also acknowledged the key message in the publication, which was “It was great to see the young people writing about their community and promoting the importance of the marine environment for health and leisure, as well as the book including the Clean Coasts initiative #2minutebeachclean”.
Now that the book is launched it will seek to promote local tourism and interest in the Wild Atlantic Way, as a means of finding some of the ‘gems’ along its route. As the publication is designed and developed through local knowledge it shows off some of the local, historic, cultural, traditional and marine heritage of just one of the many villages along the Wild Atlantic Way route.
The Cleggan Book will be free to download from the website www.nationalaquarium.ie
For more information about the launch and book we will be posting more updates on our social media.
#####Ends#####
Download the Cleggan book here!
Galway Atlantaquaria are delighted to launch our book, please feel free to share this wonderful piece of work from the schoolchildren of Cleggan.
| cleggan_book_our_sense_of_place_printversion.pdf |
####PRESSRELEASE####
Cleggan ‘Our history, our sense of place’ Book launch
The Explorers Education ProgrammeTM developed a marine project with the schoolchildren of Scoil Náisiúnta na Naomh Uile, Cleggan. This project was so successful Galway Atlantaquaria approached Galway county council for Local Agenda 21 funding. This funding was secured to transform the marine project into a free publication to promote the Wild Atlantic Way for tourists and visitors to Cleggan. The book is based directly on the information gathered from the young people, who took on the project with great passion and impetus. The book will be launched on Tuesday 25th of April at 2pm at the school in Cleggan.
Garry Kendellen from Galway Atlantaquaria said “When I saw the work the young people had invested into this project I felt it was a story that needed further reach. I was happy to deliver the final publication full of photographs, and illustrations as this project can be replicated across every village along the Wild Atlantic Way.”
Galway Atlantaquaria designed the book to reflect the amazing marine life, cultural and historical sites around Cleggan Village. The publication will enable visitors to Cleggan to stay a little while longer, and hopefully increase spending while they visit key locations on the illustrated map. Included in the publication is some information on the local seaweed farm and research from Ocean Harvest, information on marine life and Clean Coasts information, should someone like to set up a Clean Coasts group.
Galway Atlantaquaria would like to thank the schoolchildren of Cleggan for their amazing effort and input on the project. This ‘local knowledge resource’ idea is the first of its kind and could be replicated along the many villages along the Wild Atlantic Way.
For more information on the book, background and images please contact Galway Atlantaquaria 091 585 100 or email: info@nationalaquarium.ie
Cleggan ‘Our history, our sense of place’ Book launch
The Explorers Education ProgrammeTM developed a marine project with the schoolchildren of Scoil Náisiúnta na Naomh Uile, Cleggan. This project was so successful Galway Atlantaquaria approached Galway county council for Local Agenda 21 funding. This funding was secured to transform the marine project into a free publication to promote the Wild Atlantic Way for tourists and visitors to Cleggan. The book is based directly on the information gathered from the young people, who took on the project with great passion and impetus. The book will be launched on Tuesday 25th of April at 2pm at the school in Cleggan.
Garry Kendellen from Galway Atlantaquaria said “When I saw the work the young people had invested into this project I felt it was a story that needed further reach. I was happy to deliver the final publication full of photographs, and illustrations as this project can be replicated across every village along the Wild Atlantic Way.”
Galway Atlantaquaria designed the book to reflect the amazing marine life, cultural and historical sites around Cleggan Village. The publication will enable visitors to Cleggan to stay a little while longer, and hopefully increase spending while they visit key locations on the illustrated map. Included in the publication is some information on the local seaweed farm and research from Ocean Harvest, information on marine life and Clean Coasts information, should someone like to set up a Clean Coasts group.
Galway Atlantaquaria would like to thank the schoolchildren of Cleggan for their amazing effort and input on the project. This ‘local knowledge resource’ idea is the first of its kind and could be replicated along the many villages along the Wild Atlantic Way.
For more information on the book, background and images please contact Galway Atlantaquaria 091 585 100 or email: info@nationalaquarium.ie