Avsa Internship Reflection: Summer 2024

By Dure Nayab

I am currently a second-year graduate student at The Fletcher School at Tufts University, pursuing a Master of International Business (Quantitative Methods). My specialization in Sustainable Finance and Banking has fueled my interest in the intersection of environmental sustainability and economic development. I am particularly passionate about finding solutions for the ocean economy and fostering sustainable growth in developing communities.

This summer, I had the privilege of visiting Avsa Island in Türkiye, where I worked closely with a local community that is grappling with both environmental and economic challenges. Through my internship with the Avsa Project, I gained firsthand experience in working toward environmentally sustainable solutions while exploring ways to empower the community economically.

My internship primarily focused on addressing the damaging effects of algae blooms, a pressing environmental issue that impacts coastal communities. On Avsa Island, excess seaweed is washed ashore regularly, and local beach owners resort to burning it, which causes significant environmental harm, including the destruction of marine life beneath the algae. Through my work with the Bloom project team, I sought to understand the root causes of these issues and explore solutions that not only protect the environment but also offer sustainable economic opportunities for the community.

While working on the Bloom project, I collaborated with a dedicated team working to convert harmful algae blooms into agricultural fertilizer. Although there were hurdles related to patent issues, I was actively involved in brainstorming sessions focused on product development. These sessions were crucial in exploring alternative technologies for turning excess algae into valuable products, from fertilizer to sustainable energy sources. The team’s commitment to utilizing innovation for environmental impact inspired my approach to sustainable technology solutions.

In addition to product development, I supported the team’s advocacy and policy initiatives aimed at reducing ocean nutrient runoff. I conducted research, engaged with stakeholders, and drafted policy proposals aimed at strengthening government action on ocean health. It was eye-opening to see the gap between policy and practice, and my interactions with local officials and activists helped me understand the challenges of implementing effective policies in such regions.

Another significant aspect of my internship was community engagement. I conducted interviews with the community members on the island to understand the social, economic, and environmental impacts of the algae blooms. These conversations deepened my understanding of the difficulties faced by the local population, many of whom rely on tourism and fishing as their primary sources of income. I witnessed how environmental degradation, such as the algae blooms, had severe ripple effects on their livelihoods. My research helped identify areas where the local government was lacking, and I compiled this feedback to contribute to informing future policy advocacy.

I also had the opportunity to explore Avsa’s beaches and observe the environmental destruction caused by the algae. Seeing the devastation firsthand further reinforced my resolve to help contribute to the creation of sustainable solutions that not only protect the environment but also enhance the community's resilience.

My role expanded beyond Avsa Island when I was involved with the Young Leaders in Ocean Governance Project. This project allowed me to engage in international efforts to translate the initiatives of the Avsa Project into curriculum and policy frameworks in Bermuda. One of my key responsibilities involved researching key metrics for calculating ocean carbon sequestration capacity. This research is critical for assessing the effectiveness of ocean-based carbon capture as a tool to mitigate climate change.

Additionally, I began working on developing educational materials that incorporated these environmental metrics. The goal was to create a curriculum that could be distributed in schools across Bermuda, aiming to raise awareness among the youth about the importance of ocean health and sustainable practices. This experience broadened my understanding of international policy development and education as tools for fostering environmental stewardship.

This summer internship was an incredibly rewarding experience, both personally and professionally. It provided me with the opportunity to immerse myself in real-world environmental challenges while actively contributing to meaningful solutions. My work on the Bloom project and the Young Leaders in Ocean Governance Project allowed me to apply my academic background to pressing environmental issues while gaining valuable insights into community engagement, policy development, and product innovation.

The knowledge and skills I gained from this internship will undoubtedly shape my future career path in sustainable finance, ocean conservation, and international development. I look forward to applying these insights in my second year at Fletcher and beyond.

Dure Nayab is a MsQM student at The Fletcher School, Tufts University