Merseytravel and Climatlantic are looking to develop educational eco-cruises focusing on the coastline of the River Mersey. The cruise could take in the wildlife at Hilbre Island, ‘Another Place’ – the Iron Men by Anthony Gormley at Crosby Beach as well as breezing by the Wind Farm sited along Liverpool Bay and many more coastal beauty spots.

The river Mersey is the focal point of the city region and is itself one of the biggest indicators of the environmental improvements that have been undertaken over the past 30 years. As such it is fitting it should now provide the backdrop for the environmental education of future generations of North West school pupils.

Climatlantic develop strategies at regional and local level towards the reduction of the carbon footprint in the European Atlantic Area. Their projects focus in four essential issues: mobility, energy, territorial management and social behaviour; developing concrete strategies to be validated through pilot actions. As a final product, partners will create a common strategy for the Atlantic Area, based on these thematic strategies. Their unique intervention in conjunction with the practical use of the world famous Mersey Ferries and the iconic river Mersey will create a memorable educational experience that will aim to reinforce many aspects of environmental education.

First hand experiences like these can help children and students gain a better understanding of the effects the environment can have, not only on us, but the landscape around us and all who inhabit it. To make sure these trips provide a valuable addition to the curriculum, input from teachers is essential. This is a rare opportunity to create a unique and valuable educational resource for local communities and the wider region. All local schools and teachers who would like to participate in one of the project focus groups are invited to contact Chris Murphy at Merseytravel by telephone on 0151 330 1313 or by email at chris.murphy@merseytravel.gov.uk.