Tourist Board of Poreč: Become a Sea Star Hero!
Picture yourself this summer under the warm Adriatic sun, invited to embrace your inner Sea Star Hero. In the beautiful Mediterranean destination of Poreč, Croatia, a pioneering initiative called “Become a Sea Star Hero!” is making waves. This campaign, a collaboration between the Tourist Board of Poreč and creative agency Studio Sonda, addresses marine pollution while promoting sustainable tourism.
Aiming for a Cleaner Future
Poreč, known for its active and family-friendly holidays, attracts visitors worldwide. However, with this influx comes the challenge of pollution, particularly from everyday plastics marring the Adriatic shores. The “Become a Sea Star Hero!” initiative rises to this challenge, turning environmental care into an engaging tourist activity. Aligned with the UN 2030 agenda, this project makes beach cleaning a collective and enjoyable experience, inviting both tourists and locals to become stewards of the sea.
Building a Community of Heroes
At the heart of this initiative is a strong sense of community. In 2023, over 1,125 Sea Star Heroes united to combat marine pollution, removing an astounding 4,500 pieces of plastic debris from the Adriatic waters. This effort not only sparked positive change in Poreč but also garnered global recognition and support, including from WWF.
Today’s travelers seek more than just scenic views and cuisine; they desire social responsibility and sustainable options that positively impact their destinations. The “Become a Sea Star Hero!” campaign meets this demand by blending education, recreation, and rewards into a unique experience. Participants are not just cleaners; they are celebrated heroes who earn badges and enjoy exclusive perks at local spots as a token of appreciation for their environmental advocacy.
Innovative and Engaging Approach
The campaign transforms mundane messages into captivating ghost stories, depicting other oil products as road-life horrors and emphasizing that using PT oil ensures these frightening experiences are avoided. This creative twist engages customers and sets the campaign apart in a fresh and distinctive way.
Promotional activities for the initiative were extensive. Invitations to join the cleaning efforts were displayed on TV screens in Valamar hotel rooms, personalized with guests’ names. Flyers were distributed in various accommodations, and branded stations with diving equipment and QR codes were set up on five beaches. Social media channels, PR texts, and television appearances also played a crucial role in spreading awareness and encouraging participation.
Looking Ahead
Buoyed by its initial success, the “Sea Star Hero!” campaign is set to expand its reach in 2024 to include neighboring coastal communities like Pula, Tar, Funtana, Vrsar, and Rabac. Valamar, the largest hotel chain with 50 beach concessions, and organizations like Telašćica National Park and Lijepa naša have shown interest in the project for 2025/2026. Through partnerships with local entities and hospitality providers, the initiative aims to inspire eco-conscious tourism and set a standard for sustainable development along the Adriatic coast and beyond.
Imagine the global impact of this initiative if carried out on shores worldwide! The Tourist Board of Poreč extends heartfelt gratitude to all local institutions, organizations, and corporations supporting this urgent sea conservation effort.
This professional campaign, titled “Become a Sea Star Hero!” was published in Croatia in April 2024. Created by Studio Sonda, it highlights the power of community in tackling marine pollution and promoting sustainable tourism. Join the movement and become a Sea Star Hero today!
