A journey through the Mediterranean marine protected areas of the Natura 2000 network to know, love and protect the sea
After more than four years of activities in Italy and Spain, the LIFE A-MAR NATURA 2000 project is pleased to present its Layman’s Report, a publication that tells the story of the project’s journey, achievements and legacy in a simple and accessible way. The report showcases the European initiative dedicated to promoting the marine Natura 2000 sites.
Entitled “Knowing the Sea. Loving it. Protecting it.”, the report guides citizens, sea users, students, public authorities and nature enthusiasts through the discovery of Europe’s largest network of protected areas, highlighting why protecting marine biodiversity is a shared responsibility and an investment in the future of the Mediterranean.
Through images, data, testimonials and stories, the Layman’s Report retraces the project’s main activities, including the sailing campaigns along the Italian and Spanish coasts, public events, training initiatives, Natura 2000 Day celebrations, citizen science activities, the international photo contest, the development of the AMAR Sea Life app, the installation of informative panels across the project areas, and the many communication initiatives that helped bring thousands of people closer to the marine Natura 2000 sites.
The publication also highlights the project’s achievements, which exceeded its original objectives by engaging millions of people through on-site activities and digital communication tools. This journey has contributed to increasing awareness of the Natura 2000 Network while encouraging more responsible and sustainable behaviour towards the habitats and species that make the Mediterranean unique.
The Layman’s Report is not only the final summary of the project but also a valuable resource that will continue to support LIFE A-MAR beyond its official conclusion. The experience gained, the communication materials produced, the good practices developed and the project’s methodology will continue to be used through the After-LIFE activities, helping to spread a stronger culture of marine conservation across the Mediterranean.
The message that runs throughout the publication is the same one that has inspired LIFE A-MAR from the very beginning: protecting the sea starts with getting to know it. Because only what we truly know can we learn to love and protect.
The Layman’s Report is available for download in the dedicated section of the project website.
Enjoy the reading!
