CIEE High School Summer in Lisbon, Portugal: Marine Ecology & Sustainability Recently Updated

Curious about a career in marine biology and ready to get your feet wet? Head to beautiful Lisbon—this program’s for you!

Explore aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity in and around the capital of Portugal alongside biologists and sustainability researchers. Field work and fun trips take you birdwatching at a coastal lagoon, snorkeling in a marine park, kayaking in the longest river of the Iberian Peninsula, observing dolphins in the Atlantic Ocean, and intertidal monitoring at Avencas beach. These three, action-packed weeks are all about water, so get ready to get wet!

Immerse yourself in conservation and sustainability projects, like assessing water quality and threats to ecosystems, census-taking of plant and animal species, and conducting local interviews on human and economic impacts on marine ecosystems. Work with local NGOs to raise public awareness around coastal dune preservation and the plastics crisis that is choking the ocean.

Immerse yourself, too, in Portuguese culture. Sample local specialties, such as the famous pastéis de Belém. Paint Portuguese tiles and try Portuguese dances. Practice Portuguese phrases with local teens and market vendors. Back home, share your appreciation for Portuguese culture and apply your sustainability insights to future studies and environmental initiatives.

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