The campaign Mana jūra run by Foundation for Environmental Education from Latvia is rewarded with 20,000 euros for its work to draw attention to marine litter and engage the public in Latvia on this issue. During the 500-kilometre and 30-day walk, made every summer since 2012 along the Latvian coast, 500-800 people participate annually.
Mana Jūra combines research, environmental education and practical environmental work. During the walk, Mana Jūra participants monitor the amount of waste through scientific methods and increase knowledge about the extent of the problem. It also raises awareness of marine litter and environmental issues in general, not only for those who participate in the walk but also for residents in the communities along the way. In addition, the litter is removed along the coast. Within Mana Jūra, lectures, music and storytelling are also used to lift the issue of marine litter on the agenda. The campaign has gained high visibility in social media and the press.
Baltic Sea Foundation video on "Mana jūra" campaign (interview with Jānis Ulmais, founder of the Environmental Education Fund) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pWyTJN52Lf0&yt%3Acc=on
The Baltic Sea Fund, based on the Åland Islands, have for almost 30 years rewarded persons and institutions who have acted as forerunners in the protection of the Baltic Sea. All together more than 795.000 euros have been given out to 88 prizewinners from all around the Baltic Sea region.
More information:
http://www.ostersjofonden.org/text.con?iPage=12&iLan=3
