“Your Planet Needs You” Raising Awareness for Life Below Water and Life on Land

Student Project Spotlight: “Your Planet Needs You” Raising Awareness for Life Below Water and Life on Land

A community service initiative developed by students at Ajman University is inspiring action on two critical Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 15 (Life on Land). Titled “Your Planet Needs You,” the project was created by team members Amna Muhammad Ashfaq, Nasima Mohammad Helal, Amreen Fatima, and Zainab Mohiuddin, under the supervision of Engineer Abeedallah Saafan. The project aimed to raise awareness about environmental conservation and sustainable living within the university and the broader community.

The team began with a survey to gauge understanding of SDGs 14 and 15, receiving over 70 responses that revealed a need for greater education. They then organized a series of impactful events: a mangrove plantation at Al Zorah Golf Club in Ajman, an interactive workshop for grades 1–4 at Al Ma’arifa International Private School, and a reusable bag distribution campaign for students, faculty, and female hostel residents to reduce single-use plastics. A digital awareness campaign, including social media posts and an article on the Ajman University website, helped extend their reach beyond the campus, garnering nearly 1,000 views on a live broadcast of the school event.

The project’s impact was evident in post-campaign surveys: 78.1% of respondents reported learning more about SDGs 14 and 15, and 71.9% rated the initiatives as highly effective. When asked what changes they had made, 62.5% reported reducing plastic use, 65.6% participated in recycling, 43.8% adopted sustainable consumption habits, and 31.3% volunteered for environmental causes. By engaging all ages from preschool children to university professors the team fostered a culture of sustainability that extends beyond the campus.

Supporting SDG 13: Climate Action

While the project directly supports SDGs 14 and 15, it also contributes to SDG 13 (Climate Action) by promoting practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Mangrove planting, for instance, sequesters carbon and protects coastal ecosystems. Reducing plastic use lowers the carbon footprint associated with plastic production and waste. Encouraging sustainable consumption and recycling further reduces energy demand and emissions. Through education and hands-on action, “Your Planet Needs You” demonstrates how community service can drive both environmental awareness and tangible climate benefits.

Keywords: Your Planet Needs You, SDG 14, SDG 15, climate action, mangrove planting, reusable bags, plastic reduction, environmental awareness, community service, Ajman University, student innovation.

To view the project, click here.