- Coastal pollution by marine litter, plastics, and abandoned fishing gear is one of the main threats to the marine environment. A large part of this waste is also produced by tourists and boaters. The project aims to raise awareness of the public of the damage caused by marine pollution in order to change the most negative behaviors.
- The risk of extinction: the loss of biodiversity and the progressive decline in marine species populations pose a threat to the balance of ecosystems. The protection of habitats and the adoption of conservation measures are essential to counter the risk of extinction.
- Climate change: rising temperatures, ocean acidification and extreme weather events are altering marine ecosystems and putting species and habitats at risk. The protection and restoration of ecosystems help to strengthen their resilience.
- Unsustainable fishing practices have a direct impact on marine species and habitats. In accordance with the EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030, the project aims to increase cooperation between fishermen and managers of Natura 2000 sites, by acting on rules respect and fishermen’s participation in applications for sustainable fisheries funds (EMFF funding).
- The behaviors of tourists that frequently visit the coasts can cause high damage to marine habitats. Examples include anchoring in posidonia meadows, jet ski activities, and collisions with marine mammals given by excessive speed. Natura 2000 sites have great potential for coastal tourism, but their fragility requires regulation of activities.
Emergencies and solutions
The Natura 2000 Network in the marine environment offers a variety of ecosystem services, such as the preservation of the natural coastal landscape, with associated tourism induced, and the “production” of valuable species for fisheries. The project aims to communicate these values, to increase the appreciation of these places and the attention given to them by local governments.
Not all Natura 2000 sites have effective management plans based on local and up-to-date knowledge of habitats and threatened species. The project aims to involve all stakeholders, to develop conservation strategies, data updates and effective management plans for each site.
The Natura 2000 Network in the marine environment offers a variety of ecosystem services, such as the preservation of the natural coastal landscape, with associated tourism induced, and the “production” of valuable species for fisheries. The project aims to communicate these values, to increase the appreciation of these places and the attention given to them by local governments.
Not all Natura 2000 sites have effective management plans based on local and up-to-date knowledge of habitats and threatened species. The project aims to involve all stakeholders, to develop conservation strategies, data updates and effective management plans for each site.
To achieve these results, the aim was to engage a wide audience comprising residents, recreational boaters, fishermen, divers, nature guides, environmentalists, researchers, and managers of protected areas and marine sites within the Natura 2000 network.
Numerous activities were therefore identified, such as sailing campaigns, regattas, workshops and training sessions for managers of Natura 2000 protected areas, site visits, special days dedicated to public outreach, press events, participatory meetings and guided nature tours, all designed to engage local residents, tourists, guides, sector experts, well-known figures and influencers in activities dedicated to showcasing marine ecosystems and their wonders.
The activities at sea were supported by major social media and web campaigns, which involved sharing messages, images and videos with users. The project’s smartphone app, AMAR SEA LIFE (an essential tool for information on areas protected by the Natura 2000 network), was created and is available for download from both the Apple and Google app stores; the documentary ‘Unseen Guardians: Routes to Biodiversity’ was also produced and is available on YouTube in three languages: Italian, Spanish and English. In 2024, Natura 2000 Day was also organised at over 10 Italian Natura 2000 marine sites to celebrate the European Natura 2000 Network Day.
Best practice for navigating through marine protected areas within the Natura 2000 network
We would like to share some general guidelines that have emerged from events, workshops, training courses, guided tours and other communication, training, educational and information activities which have actively involved all ‘sea users’, promoting more mindful and sustainable ways of enjoying the sea.
- Find out from the managers of nature sites, marine areas and tourist information offices about the specific characteristics of the place you are visiting: main species, critical issues and problems, rules to follow and any restrictions.
- Choose only permitted activities and take part in programmes organised by local operators (boat trips, diving and snorkelling, fishing trips, guided tours).
- Minimise your waste, especially plastic, by opting for reusable, single-use items without packaging.
- Move quietly, both on land and at sea, without disturbing or startling wildlife; do not touch or approach animals to take photographs.
- Do not feed wild animals.
- Preferably choose locally sourced produce that supports local producers and sustainable practices.
- At sea, be mindful of where you moor so as not to damage the seabed.
- Pick up and dispose of any small items of litter you find in the sea (floating plastic, pieces of nets, fishing hooks).
- Report any animals in distress to the harbour master’s office.
