In Cancún, Mexico, a powerful collaboration between a Blue Flag site and an Eco-Schools institution is demonstrating how education, care, and environmental action can come together to create lasting impact. This collaboration is part of their contribution to Global Action Days, the annual FEE campaign encouraging environmental action worldwide.
Cancún Sailing, a recognised Blue Flag tour operator, has partnered with the children’s home Cancún Pro Kids, an Eco-Schools participant that has already achieved an Eco-Schools Green Flag and is working towards its second. The organisation is dedicated to supporting vulnerable children and young people, many of whom come from challenging backgrounds, including experiences of neglect, abuse, or social exclusion. At Pro Kids, they are provided not only with a safe and nurturing home, but also access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for personal development.
Education as a PAthway to EMpowerment
Through the Eco-Schools programme, Pro Kids has embedded environmental education into its daily activities. What initially felt unfamiliar and even intimidating for some students, such as participating in environmental committees or group discussions, has gradually transformed into a source of confidence and pride.
With the support of teachers, volunteers, and partners like Cancún Sailing, students have developed practical skills that extend beyond the classroom. They now actively engage in environmental practices such as waste sorting and are increasingly confident in sharing their knowledge with others in their community.
Learning by DOing
A key element of this partnership is project-based learning. Activities at beaches, parks, and green spaces allow students to connect directly with nature while learning about environmental responsibility. Despite initial challenges, such as maintaining focus among younger children, creative approaches, encouragement, and celebration of achievements have helped sustain engagement.
In addition, Cancún Sailing contributes to the children’s development through regular English lessons, helping to broaden future opportunities while strengthening the link between environmental awareness and global citizenship.
Connecting Wellbeing, Environment, and Everyday Choices
The programme also integrates themes of health and sustainability. Activities such as the “Palette of Plenty” introduce students to seasonal fruits and vegetables, exploring how colour relates to nutritional value and wellbeing. Through interactive experiences, touching, tasting, and preparing food, students learn to make healthier choices while understanding the wider connections between lifestyle, environment, and sustainability.
These experiences help foster not only environmental awareness, but also essential life skills such as organisation, perseverance, and self-care.
Growing Impact
What began as a series of structured Eco-Schools activities has grown into a broader cultural shift within the children’s home. Students who once felt uncertain are now enthusiastic participants, actively caring for their environment and contributing to a more sustainable community.
This collaboration highlights the strength of linking Blue Flag sites with Eco-Schools: combining environmental excellence with education and social impact. It stands as a powerful example of Global Action Days in action, showing how local partnerships can empower young people, strengthen communities, and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future.
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