Demonstrating our firm belief in the value of collaboration and our commitment to working closely with local communities for the effective protection of the natural environment, we have submitted our common 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 entities from the local communities of Lemnos and Lesvos.

Collective Development of Proposals based on Scientific Evidence

The measures and proposals were jointly developed with fishing associations and other local groups from both regions, based on scientific data collected by iSea and other researchers. Our objective is to protect and sustainably manage marine ecosystems while considering the needs and priorities of local communities.

The proposals include:

a. Special measures for the protection of sharks and rays, as well as commercial species such as groupers, seabreams, and octopuses, aiming to support population recovery.

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

c. Effective protection of the priority habitat of Posidonia seagrass by expanding the GR4110001 area, which is the largest marine lung of Greek seas.

d. Ban on shellfish farming in the Gulf of Kalloni and improved spatial planning for fish farming cages, using oceanographic models and recommendations from scientific literature to minimize their impacts on Posidonia habitats.

Action Plan for Fishing in the Gulf of Kalloni

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

1. Directly protect sensitive and protected habitats.

2. Continuously study the area to identify additional significant habitats.

3. Support the prosperity of the local community by ensuring sustainable fishing practices.

A Model of Collaboration for the Future

We are particularly proud of this initiative, which fully aligns with our principles and philosophy. We believe that this collaboration can serve as a model for other regions, where local communities and environmental organizations will work together to co-create their common future through the protection of the natural environment.