Forest and Sea: Environmental Education and Marine Sports This project involves a series of excursions to different threatened ecosystems, including protected marine areas, mangroves, dry forests, islets, and coastal communities in Manabí. The intention is to educate teenagers about these natural environments that are literally in their own “backyard.” Many of these young people come from fishing communities and are unaware of the wonders of the marine world. We want them to participate in various activities to open up new opportunities. Fifteen teenagers are selected from the library in rotating groups to be part of these experiences. They learn from other environmental advocates and acquire skills such as snorkeling, diving, fish identification, coral nursery care, and releasing baby hammerhead sharks trapped in fishing nets. They also learn to identify turtle nests and explore mangroves. The goal is to foster environmental awareness and commitment among young people who are the future guardians of the Ecuadorian coast. Additionally, they are provided with opportunities to pursue careers related to conservation, such as ecological guides, marine sports instructors, or university studies in biology, marine biology, and tourism, among other disciplines.