AEF Expands Reach for Greater Environmental Impact

02/04/24

In a strategic move to enhance its mission, AEF is widening its geographic scope to include the Saronic Gulf region, extending its remit from the islands to the mainland coastline of the entire Argosaronic region. This expansion aims to diversify efforts, amplify grassroots initiatives, and broaden the Foundation’s impact. 

The expanded coverage will now include: 

  • 6 inhabited islands (Hydra, Poros, Aegina, Agistri, Salamina, and Spetses), 14 uninhabited islands and islets, and the Methana peninsula comprising the Argosaronic archipelago  
  • The southwest coast of Attica and the eastern coast of the Peloponnese along with the Argolic peninsula  
  • 6 Nature Protected Areas, which encompass significant marine and terrestrial ecosystems 

The Argosaronic region is rich in natural beauty. Mountainous terrain plunges into the waters of the Aegean Sea, which at points is more than one km deep. Around the coast, hillsides covered in forest and diverse Mediterranean shrubs are interspersed with small valleys mostly cultivated with citrus and olive orchards. 

Coastal lagoons and wetlands form important fish nurseries and breeding and feeding grounds for hundreds of species of migratory birds. In the deep waters of the gulf, shoals of sardines, tuna and other species are pursued by dolphins, seals and other top marine predators. 

This incredible concentration of biodiversity faces various environmental challenges and is currently under pressure from unsustainable human practices such as uncontrolled anchoring during the summer influx of boats and sailboats, depleting fishing methods, pollution, and industrial expansion plans.    

We believe there is no reason that the region’s natural capital is sacrificed for the sake of economic development – indeed, only by protecting the former can we ensure the latter. 

The expansion of the AEF geographic remit underscores our commitment to addressing environmental challenges while promoting sustainable development. By extending its reach, the Foundation aims to support community growth, protect biodiversity, and drive economic recovery through sustainable tourism and innovation. 

This expansion signifies a crucial step toward ensuring that economic development and environmental protection go hand in hand, fostering a sustainable future for both the Argolic and the Saronic regions.