Greece has taken a significant step toward marine conservation by launching
Greece has taken a significant step toward marine conservation by launching two new National Marine Parks — one in the Ionian Sea and one in the Southern Cyclades — outlining specific rules on what activities will be allowed or restricted within their boundaries.
The proposed regulations were presented in two Special Environmental Studies now open to public consultation. Feedback from citizens, scientists, local authorities, and environmental organizations will inform the final framework, which will shape Presidential Decrees and management plans for the parks.
Once established, the parks will increase the protected share of Greece’s territorial waters to 36.2%, provided no geopolitical complications arise, particularly with neighboring Turkey, which has already voiced opposition.
Ban on Hydrocarbon Extraction Near Park Zones
The Ionian Sea Marine Park covers an area of around 18,000 km², with 280 km² of land, and includes several existing protected areas. The region has attracted interest for hydrocarbon exploration, including seismic surveys to identify and assess potential oil and gas deposits.
However, the studies warn that such activities pose a substantial threat to the park’s marine life, particularly species like sperm whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and the Mediterranean monk seal. To mitigate these risks, the proposed framework introduces
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