Ateneo Environmental Science Society Aquatic Stewardship Initiatives
The Ateneo Environmental Science Society (AESS) is the home organization of Environmental Science majors. The organization gathered proactive individuals with a passion for protecting the environment. They are active participants in nation-wide activities launched by the government and non-government agencies with the goal of cleaning, preserving, and safeguarding the environment.
One of the projects of the AESS is the yearly Turtle Walk in the Pawikan Conservation Center, Morong, Bataan. Facts on sea turtle populations were shared along with information about the effects of global warming on their species. The participants went through unique experiences including coastal clean-ups, hatchling release, witnessing a mother turtle in a nest, plus night patrol.
Another project of the organization was an activity to educate the public on the importance of the mangroves or “bakawan” which thrive in coastal saline water. “Lusong: A Mangrove Tree-Planting Activity” was held in the Olo-Olo Mangrove Forest, Lobo, Batangas. The goal of the activity was to advocate for the protection of coastal land from erosion. With this, participants planted seedlings along the coastal water to preserve the mangroves.
Last September 2021, AESS also took part in the Department of Environment and Natural Resources International Coastal Clean-up Day held at the CCP Complex, Pasay City. This was in cooperation with Bye Bye Plastic Bags Philippines. The goal of the activity was to remove plastic debris and other garbage from the coastal lines of Manila Bay. It aimed to bring forth awareness to the dangers of plastic to marine life and the need to prevent garbage from being disposed into the oceans and seas.