Project duration: 06/2023 – 02/2024

Status: COMPLETE

The challenge

There are more than 15 different animals in Cyprus that are endangered and there are many efforts underway to protect these species and their habitats, including habitat restoration, monitoring programs, etc. However, there is little awareness of the issue and of these efforts. Education about endangered animals and their conservation efforts is necessary because public ignorance and misinformation can contribute to the decline of these species. For example, many Cypriots, may not be aware of the threats facing endangered species, such as habitat destruction, poaching disruption, and hunting, and may continue to engage in activities that harm these animals. Additionally, people may not understand the importance of biodiversity and the role that endangered species play in maintaining the overall health of an ecosystem.

The solution

This project aims to raise awareness about endangered species and promote conservation efforts by empowering children to use their skills and creativity. The project will organize 2 workshops teaching students about a specific group of endangered animals, either endangered sea animals or endangered land/air animals. The students will learn more about the endangered animal of their choice through drawing. The purpose is to build empathy and create an emotional link with the chosen animals. The students’ drawings will then be digitized and used to create a pattern design that will be unique to the school. These designs will then be placed on mock-ups of products, such as t-shirts or tote bags, chosen by the school or the students themselves. The products will be uploaded on an e-shop (website) and sold among the families of the school. The proceeds from the sale of products featuring the children’s designs will be donated to local organizations supporting these issues, further supporting conservation efforts. In addition, five students from each participating school will be selected to talk about the project, their research, efforts, and findings in a podcast. One podcast will be produced at each participating school. The audio/video will be edited and uploaded to podcast streaming websites, and the results will be disseminated on social media. The long-term goal of this project is to educate children about the significance of endangered species and what actions could help safeguard them in the years to come. As children become more familiar with these concepts, it becomes easier for them to adopt more environmentally-friendly behaviors as they grow up and to encourage their own parents to follow their example.

Project’s deliverables

• 2 pattern designs with endangered animals of Cyprus: 1 for marine and 1 air/terrestrial species. Students will participate in a pattern design workshop in which they will choose an endangered animal of their choice and learn about the species through drawing. The students’ drawings will then be digitized and used to create a pattern design that will be unique to the school. For every created pattern design, mock-ups on merchandise will be created and products will be promoted on social media.
• 2 podcasts about endangered animals Cyprus: 1 for marine and 1 air/terrestrial species. Five students will be selected to talk about the project, their research, efforts, and findings in a podcast. The audio will be edited and uploaded to podcast streaming websites, and the results will be disseminated on social media.

 Project Updates

Check out the project’s website: Cyprus Endangered Animals 2023

A bit about the organization

The Values Innovation Education Foundation (VIE) is dedicated to promoting value-based education and social innovation projects for children. It recognizes the importance of including the child’s perspective in the innovation process and uses design thinking principles to tap into their innate creativity and curiosity. The foundation aims to empower children and adults alike to develop empathy and create innovative solutions that have a wider social impact. By supporting all stakeholders involved in the upbringing, development, and progress of children, the VIE Foundation aims to inspire and engage the community in creating a fair, respectful, and sustainable future for all. For this project, the foundation will be using Dibujothiki’s model: a child led, meaningful pattern design business that promotes circular economy and environmental awareness. Dibujothiki designs patterns of animals or plants that carry a deeper message to inspire critical thinking, and operates by printing these designs on demand to reduce stock waste and minimize its impact on the environment. The products that Dibujothiki’s designs are displayed on, will be handpicked with consideration for their environmental impact and will be preferably made from organic or recycled materials. The project’s focus on collaboration with children and educators, aligns with the foundation’s belief in the power of collaboration to create positive change. Together, they aim to educate and empower children and communities to take action to protect and preserve endangered animals in Cyprus and their habitats for future generations.

*This project was enabled through a grant provided by Petrolina Holdings Ltd.