Inspiration:
Our inspiration came from discovering that Hong Kong's Lantau mudflats are home to two endangered species of horseshoe crabs - ancient creatures that have survived 450 million years but now face extinction. Learning that their blue blood saves human lives (worth HKD $120,000 per litre for medical testing) while 10-30% die from harvesting practices made us realize the urgent need to educate young people about this critical balance between human health and species survival.
The social problems we aim to solve:
We address the disconnect between youth and local conservation. Most students don't know that globally significant endangered species live right in Hong Kong's backyard. Current conservation efforts lack youth engagement, missing the opportunity to create future environmental stewards. By transforming Grade 4 students into "conservation scientists," we're building a generation that understands the complex relationship between human medical needs and species protection.
Our plans from A to Z?
We begin by introducing students to horseshoe crabs through hands-on activities, creating habitat comparison posters, and designing educational products. Students then participate in real biodiversity surveys, collecting actual scientific data. Finally, they become teachers themselves, spreading awareness through community outreach, ensuring knowledge multiplies beyond our classroom.
Challenges:
Our biggest challenge is making complex scientific concepts accessible to Grade 4 students while maintaining accuracy. Explaining why we harvest crab blood for medicine while also protecting them requires careful balance. Additionally, coordinating with conservation organizations for hands-on fieldwork and ensuring student safety during mudflat visits presents logistical challenges. We also need materials for the creative projects that the students will work on throughout the project.
The resources we need:
We need educational materials about horseshoe crabs suitable for young learners, art supplies for poster creation, and AI systems that can take students artwork and personal stories and turn them into environmentally friendly digital experiences. We're seeking partnerships with Ocean Park Conservation Foundation for expert guidance and field trip opportunities. We are also on the lookout for funding for potential beach or mudflat cleanups to assist in students actively participating in environmental action.
Who are we?
We are DreamStarter Group 1 from St. Hilary's Primary School, led by Mr. Steven and Ms. Guo. Our team consists of passionate Grade 4 students who believe that age doesn't limit our ability to make a real difference in conservation. With guidance from our teachers who have backgrounds in environmental education, we're committed to protecting Hong Kong's living fossils while inspiring our peers to become the next generation of conservation leaders.
