Demonstrating our belief in the value of collaboration and our commitment to working closely with local communities for the effective protection of the natural environment, we submitted our joint proposals for the Special Environmental Study (SES) 7B: Natura 2000 Areas of the Attica Region and the North Aegean Region. These proposals were developed in collaboration with 18 different local community bodies of Lemnos and Lesvos.

Collective Formulation of Proposals with Scientific Documentation

The measures and proposals we submitted were developed jointly with fishing and other associations in the two regions and are based on scientific data collected by iSea and other researchers. The aim of the proposals is to protect and sustainably manage marine ecosystems, taking into account the needs and priorities of local communities.

The proposals include, among others:

a. Special measures for the protection of sharks and rays, as well as commercial species, such as groupers, sardines and octopuses, with the aim of recovering their populations.

b. Targeted removal of alien species to restore ecological balance.

c. Effective protection of the priority habitat of Posidonia with the expansion of the GR4110001 area, the largest marine lung of the Greek seas.

d. Prohibition of shellfish farming in the Gulf of Kalloni and more appropriate siting of fish farming cages, using oceanographic models and the recommendations of existing scientific literature to reduce their impacts on Posidonia.

Action Plan for Fisheries in the Gulf of Kalloni

In collaboration with the fishing associations in Kalloni, Lesvos, we proposed an action plan for fishing with the fishing gear “Argalios” in the Gulf of Kalloni. This plan aims to:

1. The immediate protection of sensitive and protected habitats

2. In the continuous study of the area to identify other important habitats.

3. To the well-being of the local community, ensuring the sustainability of fishing activities.

Example of Cooperation for the Future

We are particularly proud of this effort, which is fully aligned with our principles and philosophy. We believe that this collaboration can serve as an example for other areas, where the local community and environmental organizations will work together to co-shape their common future through the protection of the natural environment.

Find our common suggestions here