Greece Plans to Establish Largest Marine Parks in Mediterranean

Greece unveiled its ambitious plans on Monday to create two massive marine parks in the Ionian and Aegean seas, which Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis declared will be the largest in the Mediterranean region.

The purpose of these marine parks is to safeguard sea mammals and turtles in the Ionian Sea and protect seabirds and seals in the Aegean. The Greek government aims to establish these parks by the end of the year, aligning with its commitment to expand marine protected areas to 30% of its waters by 2030.

Prime Minister Mitsotakis emphasized the significance of these marine parks, stating that they will enable Greece to surpass its target well ahead of schedule. These sanctuaries will prohibit trawling of the sea floor within their boundaries, ensuring the preservation of marine life.

Environmental studies outlining the boundaries of the parks were released for public consultation until September 22.

While the Aegean Sea park is set to cover 9,500 square kilometers and will extend around the southern Cyclades islands, tensions between Greece and Turkey have surfaced over the park’s boundaries. Greece asserts that the park falls within its territorial waters, while Turkey believes otherwise.

Turkey’s Foreign Ministry criticized Greece for its unilateral actions, stating that the marine parks will not impact ongoing disputes between the two nations in the Aegean and Mediterranean. Turkey plans to announce its own initiatives for marine life protection in the near future.

Despite the diplomatic tensions, Greece remains steadfast in its commitment to conservation efforts. The government intends to expand the size of the marine parks, which are currently estimated at 27,500 square kilometers.

Following the conclusion of the public consultation period, the Greek Environment Ministry will draft presidential decrees outlining the establishment of the marine parks. These decrees are expected to be submitted to the Council of State by the end of October, paving the way for the official declaration of the parks.

As Greece moves forward with its ambitious conservation plans, the establishment of these marine parks will not only contribute to marine biodiversity protection but also serve as a testament to the country’s dedication to environmental sustainability.

Sources: Reuters