Discovering Hidden Worlds at the Salt and Earth Festival

In collaboration with Kent Downs National Landscape, GeoBus, and CuriouSTEAM, the event invited participants of all ages to dive into the unseen wonders of microfossils. Organised by Dr Deborah Tangunan and Nikol Staikidou.

On October 5, the scenic town of Folkestone, Kent, came alive with the Salt and Earth Festival, celebrating the region's unique cultural and natural heritage. One of the events during the festival was the interactive event Hidden Worlds: Exploring Microfossils, where Deborah Tangunan from the Chalk Sea Ecosystems (ChaSE) project, together with Nikol Staikidou, offered an artistic and scientific journey into the world of calcareous nannoplankton (nannofossils)—microscopic marine organisms that have shaped the iconic chalk cliffs of southern England.

In collaboration with Kent Downs National Landscape, GeoBus, and CuriouSTEAM, the event invited participants of all ages to dive into the unseen wonders of microfossils. Visitors explored this fascinating world by engaging in creative activities such as sketching, colouring, and making clay models of nannofossils. The interactive experience combined art and science, making complex concepts about ancient marine ecosystems accessible and fun.
One of the favorites was the "Build Your Own Microfossil", where participants used plasticine to create their interpretations of these tiny yet significant organisms. Participants also enjoyed colouring the nannofossil drawings and placing them where they belonged—either in the water column or on the sea floor—while reflecting on the ancient ecosystems they represented.

The event also shed light on the ecological importance of calcareous nannoplankton today. As primary producers and contributors to the carbon cycle, these phytoplankton are crucial to marine ecosystems. Conversations about the impacts of rising global ocean temperatures sparked concern and curiosity among attendees, who were eager to learn more about how climate change might affect these vital organisms.
Participants left not only with a deeper appreciation for the hidden world of microfossils but also with a stronger connection to the chalk cliffs that define Folkestone's landscape. 
The ChaSE project, funded by the Natural Environment Research Council, continues to explore the rich ecological significance of chalk sea ecosystems. With Folkestone aspiring to become a UNESCO Cross-Channel Global Geopark, events like this underscore the importance of geodiversity and the need to preserve our natural heritage.

Special thanks to Kent Downs National Landscape, GeoBus, CuriouSTEAM, and all participants for making this event a success.

Links:

• GeoBus UCL - Inspiring the next generation of Earth scientists
• Kent Downs National Landscape 
• CuriouSTEAM Learning Network
• Dr Deborah Tangunan's academic profile
• ChaSE project

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