On 11 June 2026, 52 young participants gathered at Starli Amusement Park in Novi Sad for two interactive workshops organised by the Children’s Environmental Academy, the Institute of Food Technology in Novi Sad, University of Novi Sad (FINS), and the IMPRESS project.
Under the title “Green and Blue Detectives Solving an Eco-Mystery Together,” the workshops invited children aged seven and eight to explore the connections between aquatic resources, environmental protection, waste reduction and the circular economy.
Following the Blue Clues
The first part of the workshop introduced the children to the role of the “Blue Detectives.”
Through games, discussion and exploration, they investigated the natural treasures found in rivers and seas, including animals, algae and other aquatic resources. The children considered why these resources need to be protected and how they can be used responsibly.
One of the most engaging discoveries was that algae and other aquatic organisms are not only important parts of natural ecosystems. They can also be used to develop useful products, including food and more sustainable packaging materials.
For many participants, this was an entirely new way of looking at the aquatic environment.
Green Clues, Natural Resources & Useful Products
The “Green Detectives” then continued the investigation.
The children explored how aquatic resources can be transformed into products such as spreads, sausages and biscuits, as well as natural food wraps and packaging materials that could help replace conventional plastic.
By combining the blue and green clues, the young detectives began to identify the wider environmental picture: protecting water resources, reducing waste, recycling materials and finding new uses for valuable natural resources are all connected.
Curious Minds
The first workshop welcomed 28 seven-year-olds, while the second involved 24 eight-year-olds.
One of the strongest impressions from both sessions was how much the children already knew about environmental issues. They brought thoughtful questions, creative ideas and a level of environmental awareness that repeatedly surprised the organisers.
The participants quickly connected the workshop topics with their own everyday experiences. They spoke about recycling at home, keeping parks clean and behaving responsibly during family holidays.
Some described how they avoid leaving litter on beaches, pick up rubbish when they see it and take care not to disturb marine plants and animals.
Learning Through Investigation
The detective role-playing activity became the clear favourite.
Taking on the roles of young scientists encouraged the children to observe, explore, ask questions and work together to solve the eco-mystery. Their curiosity and willingness to contribute created an energetic learning environment in which environmental responsibility and scientific thinking developed naturally through play.
The workshops also left room for the imagination that makes childhood learning so memorable.
During one discussion, several children confidently explained that the main inhabitants of the sea were SpongeBob and his friends. The moment captured the spirit of the day perfectly: a combination of growing environmental knowledge, scientific curiosity, and imagination.
Building Environmental Awareness from an Early Age
The workshops demonstrated the value of introducing sustainability and circular economy concepts at an early age. By connecting aquatic resources with familiar products, daily habits and playful investigation, the activities helped children see that protecting the environment is linked to the choices people make every day.
The young detectives left with a stronger understanding of how water resources can be protected, how waste can be reduced and how natural materials can be used more responsibly.
Just as importantly, they showed that children are not passive observers of environmental challenges. They are curious, informed and ready to contribute ideas for a cleaner and more sustainable future.
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Information provided by the Institute of Food Technology in Novi Sad, University of Novi Sad (FINS).
Bearbeitet für die IMPRESSUM Website.