iSea, together with the Hellenic Ornithological Society and the Blue Marine Foundation, submitted their comments to the public consultation for the South Aegean National Marine Park.

Among other things, our proposals include the following:

1. Strict Protection Zones

The provision for four Strict Protection Zones in the new South Aegean Marine Park is extremely limited in area, which does not meet the country’s international and European commitments for 10% strictly protected areas within the Protected Areas and does not ensure the effective conservation of the region’s ecosystems and biodiversity. Therefore, a substantial revision and strengthening of the Strict Protection Zones is required so that the Marine Park can serve as a genuine conservation tool and align with international conservation targets.

2. Posidonia meadows, Fish farms, and Anchoring areas

We consider it extremely important to emphasize the need for detailed mapping of the Posidonia meadows within the Park. We further propose the clear demarcation of any aquaculture activities at a minimum distance of 800 meters from Posidonia meadows. In cases where aquaculture exists at distances greater than 800 meters and up to 3 kilometers, it is recommended to make mandatory the monitoring of the health status of Posidonia meadows using methodologies that allow for the early detection of degradation from organic pollution.

Additionally, the formal establishment of no-anchoring zones throughout the entire extent of Posidonia meadows is necessary, not just within the Strict Protection Zones. The inadequate spatial coverage of management measures creates serious risks of degradation for meadows that remain unprotected, despite their well-documented ecological importance.

3. Sharks and rays

The South Aegean represents a significant area for the presence and conservation of sharks and rays in Greece, hosting a wide range of species, twelve of which are strictly protected.

Based on iSea’s scientific knowledge regarding their distribution, population status, and the threats they face, in combination with the existing legal framework for their protection, we propose their full inclusion as protected fauna species. We also recommend management measures that promote further research and study of their ecology, conservation, and threats, measures to mitigate the impacts of bycatch, as well as habitat restoration measures, in accordance with the requirements of EU Regulation 2024/1991 on Nature Restoration.

Furthermore, targeted measures are proposed for species inclusion, such as training for fishers and the use of devices to reduce incidental catch.