Bringing ASPEH closer to the community: educational and information pop-up space in Korčula
14/08/2026
From 3 to 15 August 2026, the island of Korčula became a meeting point for learning, conversation and exchange on the protection of nature and the Adriatic marine environment. As part of its activities within the ASPEH project, Sunce organised an educational and information pop-up space at Ulica Opata Don Ive Matijace 12, providing local residents and visitors with an opportunity to learn more about environmental protection, discover Sunce’s work and engage directly with environmental experts.
The temporary space was made available by a local property owner who recognised the importance of promoting marine environmental protection and educational activities within the local community. Open every day during morning and evening hours, the pop-up space welcomed around 100 visitors over the course of two weeks.
Discovering the Adriatic through education
The pop-up space offered an informal and accessible setting where visitors could explore educational and promotional materials, learn about environmental initiatives and discuss environmental challenges with members of the Sunce team.
A particular focus was placed on the ASPEH project and its educational content. Visitors had the opportunity to explore the “Adriatic treasures” exhibition, which presents the natural values and biodiversity of the Adriatic and highlights the importance of protecting this unique marine environment.
The space also welcomed the youngest visitors, who could take part in educational games developed within the ASPEH project. Through play and interactive activities, children were introduced to the Adriatic, its biodiversity and the importance of protecting marine ecosystem.
By bringing these educational materials directly to the local community and visitors to the island, the pop-up space provided an additional opportunity to share the results and messages of the ASPEH project beyond traditional educational settings.
A space for dialogue and local environmental concerns
The activity was designed not only to provide information, but also to create a space for open dialogue about environmental issues affecting Korčula and the wider Adriatic region.
Both local residents and tourists were encouraged to share their experiences, raise concerns and discuss environmental challenges they encounter in their everyday lives or during their stay on the island. Conversations also focused on responsible behaviour towards the environment and on the ways individuals can contribute to the protection of nature and the marine environment.
This informal approach proved particularly valuable, as it allowed visitors to engage in direct conversations with environmental professionals and explore questions that are often difficult to address in more formal settings.
Connecting environmental awareness with citizens’ rights
An important component of the activity was the opportunity for visitors to consult Sunce’s legal expert, who was present at the pop-up space to provide information and advice on environmental law.
This offered an opportunity for citizens who had previously reported environmental problems through the Sunce’s Green Phone, as well as other interested visitors, to discuss their concerns directly with a legal professional. They could learn more about their environmental rights, available mechanisms for addressing environmental problems and possible next steps in specific cases.
Bringing people together for the Adriatic
The pop-up space remained open until 15 August, with the support of a student from the Faculty of Marine Sciences undertaking a professional internship at Sunce, together with the property owner.
Ultimately, the Korčula pop-up space showed that environmental education is not only about sharing knowledge. It is also about creating opportunities for people to connect, speak up about environmental challenges and discover how they can contribute to protecting the Adriatic and its natural heritage.
