Orla, Jack C., Jack S. and Ollan are reporting from the Premiere of “SEAGRASS: The Hidden Life Beneath Our Shores” at University of Galway.
On 16 June 2026 it was finally time: Zero Waste Alliance Ireland (ZWAI) and the Ryan Institute at University of Galway hosted a landmark event: the premiere of the documentary “SEAGRASS: The Hidden Life Beneath Our Shores” and the launch of a new poster on Seagrasses and Ditchgrasses of Europe.
This event brought together scientists, policymakers, environmental advocates, and curious minds to shine a light on one of the most vital yet overlooked marine ecosystems: the seagrass meadows.
Why Seagrass?
Seagrass meadows are powerhouses of biodiversity, storing carbon at rates up to 40 times faster than tropical rainforests and providing critical habitats for marine life. Despite their ecological importance, these ecosystems remain underappreciated and threatened.
“The fact that Seagrass can capture more carbon than a forest of trees per square metre is incredible. It quietly washes up on our shores, its unassuming potential missed by most people. We wanted to change that and highlight the incredible seagrass restoration work happening right here on our shores.” Órla Coutin Fitzsimons
The Event: A Celebration of Science, Storytelling and Restoration
The premiere took place in THB-G010, Hardiman Building, University of Galway, from 12:30 to 13:30, followed by a free lunch and networking session. The event featured:
- A screening of the documentary, directed and produced by Orla Fitsomns, narrated by Jack O’Sullivan, with stunning footage from Dingle Peninsula, Connemara, and beyond.
- A panel discussion with experts, including:
- Prof. Frances Fahy (Director, Ryan Institute)
- Dr. Oliver Ó Cadhla (Nature-based solutions in Ireland’s marine areas)
- Dr. Ricard J. Lilley (Chair, European Seagrass Restoration Alliance)
- Dr. Liam Morrison (The making of the documentary and poster)
- The launch of a new poster
“This film is a labour of love—a way to bridge the gap between science and storytelling. Seagrass is not just a plant; it’s a lifeline for our coasts and our climate. We hope this documentary inspires people to see the ocean through a new lens.”, Jack O’Sullivan.
The full documentary is now available on YouTube. Dive into the hidden world of seagrass and discover why these meadows are so essential to our planet’s health.
Thank you!
This event was possible due to a collaborative effort and collaboration of many individuals and organisations, including:
Órla Coutin Fitzsimmons, Jack O’Sullivan, Jack Coffey, Liam Morrison, Richard Lilley, Frances Fahy, Clémence Gacon, Deirdre Lane, Ricardo Bermejo, Africa N.G. D., Sara Haro Paez, and the wider teams at ZWAI, University of Galway, Ryan Institute, CLIMAREST, REBORN, Interreg North-West Europe (NWE), Coastwatch (Irish Coastal Environment Group – Coastwatch), Irish Ocean Literacy Network, Natural Capital Ireland and European Seagrass Restoration Alliance.