ISN Nice Strengthens Commitment to Ocean Conservation at the 2024 Nice Climate Summit

The International School of Nice (ISN Nice) continues to lead in sustainability education, proudly aligning with global initiatives to protect our oceans. As part of the United Nations’ “Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030)” and in anticipation of the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC2025) in Nice, ISN Nice has further cemented its role as an advocate for ocean conservation. Through a diverse range of educational programmes, ISN Nice fosters a culture of sustainability that engages students, staff, and parents alike.

For the second consecutive year, ISN Nice reaffirms its commitment to sustainability by actively participating in the Nice Climate Summit, scheduled for September 26-27 at the Palais de la Méditerranée. Supported by key partners, including La Tribune, Métropole Nice Côte d’Azur, La Mairie de Nice, Engaged for Ocean and TiredEarth, the summit will focus on the theme “Protecting the Ocean, Safeguarding Humanity.” This prestigious event will bring together scientists, policymakers, economic leaders, and young ocean defenders to explore strategies for preserving our oceans.

ISN Grade 12 student Uliana Ognyannikova explains the importance of attending the conference, “My peers and I have spread awareness on climate change’s effects on the oceans, raised money for conservation efforts, and debated solutions for issues threatening marine environments. Now we’re attending the Nice Climate Summit for the second year, and I couldn’t be more excited and determined to make it count.”

Showcasing Student-Led Sustainability Initiatives

ISN Nice’s students, known as young ocean defenders, will present a range of projects at the summit that reflect the school’s dedication to ocean protection. One highlight is ISN Nice’s success in the Eco Schools programme, where the school has achieved the prestigious Green Flag for three consecutive years and last year’s coveted Gold Award. This year, the theme is water, with a particular focus on marine environments. The school’s efforts include initiatives like beach clean-ups, engaging students in hands-on conservation work along the French Riviera.

One of the standout projects is the Global Initiatives, supported by Mrs. Maty Diouf, Deputy Mayor of Nice. This initiative champions diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ), highlighting the crucial role of women and gender equality (SDG 5) in conserving and sustainably using oceans and marine resources (SDG 14). It also promotes partnerships (SDG 17) to advance the goals of the UNOC.

Mrs Diouf explains: "Convinced that gender equality is the key to social justice and progress, I have always been committed to actively promoting this ideal within the objectives of the UNOC. I greatly appreciate the involvement of the International School of Nice and its students with whom the City of Nice, through my delegations, unites our voices and actions. Together we can create a world where everyone, regardless of their gender, has the opportunity to fully flourish. It is also breaking down the barriers that separate us and, through the resilience of each and every one, building a fair and inclusive future for all."

Junk Kouture

Another standout project, “From the Coastal Line to the Waste Line,” will also be showcased at the summit. This award-winning “Mediterranean Blue Dress,” made entirely from recycled materials, symbolises the critical role of women in marine conservation. The dress, which won a prize at the Junk Kouture World Finals in Monaco, highlights how creativity can be harnessed to address environmental issues.

Innovation in Education: AI and Marine Learning Hub

ISN Nice is not only committed to traditional environmental education but also embraces cutting-edge technology. The school recently participated in Globeducate’s AI challenge, hi!ai, where students brought historical figures like Sir Isaac Newton to life using AI. This project, designed to answer questions about ocean science, reflects ISN Nice’s innovative approach to merging technology with marine conservation education.

In 2024, ISN Nice will also unveil two new educational spaces: the Space Centre and the Marine Learning Hub. While the Space Centre focuses on STEAM education, the Marine Learning Hub will immerse students in marine biology and environmental science, offering hands-on learning experiences that deepen their understanding of marine ecosystems.

A Global Perspective on Sustainability

As a proud member of the Globeducate group of leading bilingual and international schools, with 65+ schools in 11 countries, ISN Nice integrates sustainability across its curriculum, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). From participating in the Globeducate Arts Competition, which challenges students to create art centred on marine conservation, to engaging in the IB programme’s Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) projects, ISN Nice students are encouraged to think globally and act locally.

Mel Curtis, Head of School at ISN Nice, expressed her enthusiasm for the school’s participation in the summit:

“Our involvement in the Nice Climate Summit reflects our deep commitment to fostering environmental awareness and action among our students. By engaging with global leaders and showcasing their own sustainability projects, our students gain invaluable experience and are inspired to be the next generation of ocean defenders. This summit is a fantastic opportunity for our young people to contribute to the global dialogue on ocean conservation and demonstrates a strong commitment to the theme ‘Protéger l’océan, préserver l’humanité,’ by bringing together scientists, policymakers, business leaders, and young advocates to explore innovative solutions for protecting our oceans and ensuring a sustainable future for humanity.”

The importance of ISN involvement is echoed by Thomas Capiten - Label Engaged For Ocean:  

"The need to actively safeguard our Ocean has never been more crucial. Faced with the scale of the challenges, it is young people who, tomorrow, will have the heavy burden of preserving this fragile heritage and building a sustainable civilisational model that depends on it. This is why the involvement of the International School of Nice deserves our gratitude and recognition. This school accomplishes much more than raising awareness: it educates global citizens, ready to defend our planet and our Ocean with conviction, sincerity and skills.”

ISN Nice’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and ocean conservation empowers its students to become future leaders in environmental stewardship, ensuring a more sustainable future for our planet. The 2024 Nice Climate Summit offers an invaluable opportunity for these young leaders to share their passion and drive for protecting our oceans. This work aligns with the Globeducate mission to prepare each student to become a global citizen who can shape the world.

Read more about the Globeducate commitment to sustainability education and our partners WWF-UK and Eco-Schools. Click here. 

Read more about ISN Nice here.