The Taoyuan City Department of Environmental Protection (TYDEP) encourages the public to embrace the ocean and learn about the rich local culture of the Taoyuan coast. From April to October 2024, the TYDEP will organize 45 sessions of coastal educational tours, with open registration starting from March 15th. The theme centers around the five key highlights of Taoyuan's coastal ecology: Xucuogang Wetland, Caota Sand Dunes, Guanxin Algal Reef, Xinwu Stone Weirs, and the Traditional Taiwanese Beach Seine Experience, alongside learning about coastal plants. Through the integration of local community environmental resources and the diverse coastal ecology, a hands-on tour approach is employed to promote marine environmental education and support endeavors aimed at safeguarding the stunning coastline of Taoyuan.
The courses offer diverse experiences, from observing migratory birds and studying coastal plant characteristics to unraveling the mysteries of sand dune formation. Participants can admire wind turbines along the shore, explore the distinctive landscape of algal reefs, experience traditional fishing methods, and learn about the century-old Xinwu stone weirs. Through collaboration with local communities, hands-on activities are tailored to incorporate local features, fostering awareness of marine environmental education and contributing to the realization of sustainable development goals for marine resources.
According to Shih-wei Chen, Director General of the TYDEP, the city government has been actively promoting the "Satoumi College" initiative since 2021 to advance lifelong marine education. Centered on the principles of "embracing the sea," "loving the sea," and "understanding the sea," this initiative seeks to integrate marine education into daily life experiences. The ultimate aim is to cultivate citizens of Taoyuan City who possess a strong understanding and appreciation of the marine environment. By deepening coastal education and promoting sustainable utilization of coastal resources, the initiative strives to preserve the coast's natural beauty for generations to come.