Igniting a new era of Science Engagement - and Action

Why MPAs deserve the UNOC Stage 

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are vital to ocean health, food security and climate resilience – yet only 5.4% of South Africa’s waters are protected, and 8.3% globally. 

Even with their ecological, social and economic importance, the majority of MPAs lie offshore in deep waters. To help us understand the MPAs that are largely isolated from the majority of citizens, science-based experience design can bring us closer to these environments. 

Immersive experiences have the ability to place visitors in the middle of these environments through digital simulations, projection mapping and augmented reality. Through this type of experience visitors can explore deep sea ecosystems, species migration patterns and how human activities affect these environments.  This will create a deeper understanding of the critical role of the ocean environment and a desire to take action in some way. This may mean better sea food choices, eliminating single use plastics or even pursuing a career in ocean conservation. 

Read the blog: Why MPAs need to be part of the conversation 

Exploring Both Sides of the Aquarium Wall 

Stepping into a public aquarium can be a magical and memorable experience, especially for those who have not ventured beneath the ocean's waves. These spaces can serve as vital centres for education and conservation, often inspiring people to care about marine life and even shaping global ocean policy.  

But it’s not only the marine species that we typically observe in an aquarium that we should care about – we should also place our attention beyond the glass walls where a complex marine world exists. 

Our work on the Immersive Gulf Stream Experience at Patricia and Philip Frost Museum of Science in Florida, USA, follows this belief, showcasing a remote ocean ecosystem in a dynamic, engaging way. This exhibit features a large-scale, interactive installation that plunges visitors into the heart of the Gulf Stream. Through 3D visuals and motion-responsive design, it vividly teaches visitors about complex ocean currents and fish behaviours. As you step into the virtual Gulf Stream projection, you're enveloped by lifelike three-dimensional animations. This immersive journey introduces you to elusive and seldom-seen creatures that inhabit these vital waters. 

Read the blog: Exploring Both Sides of the Aquarium Wall 

Science Centres Are Evolving – fast. 

We’ve spoken about the role of immersive experiences in depicting remote ocean ecosystems, but let’s broaden our focus a bit. Let’s think about ways to spark a love for all science – not just ocean based. 

The future is here, and it's powered by AI. But while some celebrate, others fear being left behind. When it comes to the AI conversation, you have probably felt this way before.  

How can science centres capture this opportunity, to become dynamic "activation hubs" that spark a love for science in everyone? With a growing digital toolbox, science centres can evolve into citizen science powerhouses. With a digitally native generation craving immersive experiences, what if every visitor had an AI-powered "Digital Twin" to guide their journey, both on-site and even after they have left the building? 

Explore this more with us: The Evolution of Science Centres 

Organic Science Centres: Where Science Grows with you 

What if science wasn't just in a building, but lived in our streets, our homes, our hands? This brings us to the concept of ‘Organic Science Centres’ – dynamic ecosystems where learning is constantly happening and constantly evolving.  

This isn't about getting people into centres, but about pushing science out into the world, transforming passive visitors into active science enthusiasts. Imagine pop-up labs in your neighbourhood, mobile exhibits at the market, or co-created experiments tackling local challenges like water quality. With digital extensions and personalized learning journeys, science becomes an ongoing, relevant, and deeply personal adventure. It's time for science centres to start becoming living, responsive systems, showing up where it matters most. 

Read the blog: Rethinking Science Centres as Living Systems 

To the curators, educators and designers of science education spaces: 

The ocean isn’t just a topic reserved for high-level conferences. It’s a thread that runs through food, weather, culture, energy and future livelihoods. You hold a unique power to shape how people see that thread through the questions you ask visitors and in the way your spaces invite action. Every exhibition, sign, and activity can spark action.  

Let’s make science literacy a living experience – one that’s relevant, shared and constantly unfolding.