Recognizing that Caribbean beaches are under stress and degrading as a result of natural and man-made forces, Sandwatch started in 1998 with the vision of changing the lifestyle and habits of children, youth and adults on a community-wide basis, and developing awareness of the fragile nature of the marine and coastal environment and the need to use it wisely. The initiative also sought to address the decline in student numbers opting for mathematics and science subjects. This article discusses the origin and process of development of Sandwatch, and reviews various Sandwatch experiences around the world to yield lessons learnt as they contribute to growing discussions on education for sustainable development (ESD). Between 2001 and 2005 a pilot project approach was adopted in 12 Caribbean countries whereby school students of all ages took part in the scientific observation, measurement and analysis of beaches, utilizing an interdisciplinary approach. They then worked with their local communities, to apply their information and knowledge to the wise management of their beaches through the implementation of specific beach enhancement activities. Whilst starting it as an extra-curricular programme, teachers have adapted Sandwatch activities into different parts of the curriculum, including science, social science, mathematics, language skills, creative arts and crafts, and information and communication technology. In one Pacific country-Cook Islands-Sandwatch has been formally integrated into the science and social science primary school curriculum. By working with their communities to design and implement beach enhancement projects, students have become 'whistleblowers' for environmental issues, promoters of sustainable beach management practices, and advocates for environmental stewardship. They are demonstrating that by taking positive action and maximizing media cooperation, they can make a difference and begin to change attitudes relating to people's careless and uncaring environmental habits. With its intrinsic simplicity and flexibility, Sandwatch is also providing opportunities for community and non governmental groups to adapt the approach to their own needs and to other components of the environment such as rivers and lakes. Utilizing web-based tools and new technology, Sandwatch is expanding beyond the Caribbean to other parts of the world. Future directions include developing new tools to further expand the geographical reach of Sandwatch, integrating the approach into the formal school curriculum, further development of the interaction between schools and their communities, and maximizing the storage and use of the environmental information collected.