Privacy Policy 

THE microalgae Project

By East Coast Algae Pty Ltd

Last updated: 19/11/2025

East Coast Algae (“we”, “us”, “our”) is committed to protecting the privacy of schools, teachers, and students participating in The Microalgae Project (“the Project”). This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and manage personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

1. What Information We Collect

We may collect:

• Teacher contact details (name, email, school name, school address)

• Sample location descriptions (e.g. “school pond”)

• Project-related communications and preferences

• Feedback or testimonials (if voluntarily provided)

We do not collect student names, addresses, or sensitive personal data.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use this information to:

• Process and analyse submitted samples

• Deliver digital libraries and printed materials

• Communicate project updates and logistics

• Improve our educational resources and services

We may also use anonymised images or data for educational or promotional purposes (see Section 5).

3. Image and Data Use

• Videos will feature the watermark, names or signatuers to prevent unauthorised replication.

• We may use anonymised images or clips (with no identifying school or student details) in educational or promotional content.

• If you prefer not to have your class’s materials used this way, you can opt out by contacting us.

4. Storage and Retention

• Project data is stored using Google Drive, which includes basic security protections provided by Google.

• Files are not encrypted beyond Google’s default protections.

• Digital libraries are retained by us indefinitely.

5. Consent and Opt-Out

• Participation in the Project implies consent to this Privacy Policy.

• You may opt out of having your class’s anonymised images or videos used for promotional or educational purposes by contacting us.

• Schools are responsible for ensuring that appropriate parental or guardian consent is obtained for student participation and sample collection.

6. Access and Correction

You may request access to your personal information or ask for corrections by contacting us. We’ll respond within a reasonable timeframe.

7. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be indicated with updated date.

8. Contact Us

For questions, access requests, or privacy concerns, please contact: steph@ecabiosystems.com