AEF participates in the 9th Our Ocean Conference

17/04/24

The AEF was privileged to attend the 9th Our Ocean Conference, held in Athens, Greece, from April 15-17. This prestigious event brought together ocean stakeholders, ie, policy-makers, international and national organisations, non-profits, and philanthropists to address the critical challenges facing our oceans. The event showcased successful examples and drives ocean conservation through policy, science, funding, partnerships, and collaboration commitments. 

During the conference, a remarkable total of 460 commitments were made. Among the most promising Greek government commitments, also linked to the Argosaronic Gulf are the following: 

 

  1. Establishment of the Aegean Marine National Park, considered to encompass the Velopoula islet situated to the southeast of Spetses. In 2022 the AEF funded the mapping of Posidonia meadows in Spetses and Velopoula and the research findings will support the marine habitats survey process that will determine the final demarcation.
  2. Ban on Bottom Trawling: By 2030, bottom trawling will be banned in all marine protected areas, starting with marine national parks by 2026, in an effort to preserve marine biodiversity and protect delicate underwater ecosystems. 
  3. Environmental Status Actions: Tailor-made actions will be developed to achieve good environmental status in the marine environment, in alignment with the EU Directive on marine strategy, specifically targeting four gulfs, the Saronic being one of them. 
  4. Reduction of Plastic Litter and Microplastics: Policies will be implemented to reduce plastic litter by 50% and microplastics by 30% by 2030, using 2019 as the baseline year. These efforts are crucial for mitigating pollution and protecting marine life. 

 

The comprehensive list of 21 commitments made by Greece can be found here.

What is more, we were delighted to attend the compelling side event organised by our sister foundation Cyclades Preservation Fund showcasing how fishing communities’ initiatives are successfully leading conservation in the Aegean. The subsequent establishment of a Fisheries Restricted Area (FRA) around Amorgos Island demonstrates that innovative and persistent grassroots efforts can have a profound impact when supported by the scientific community, organisations and foundations.

The AEF is proud to have been part of this global initiative for a sustainable future for the oceans, aligning to our objectives of safeguarding marine biodiversity and promoting sustainable practices that benefit the environment and communities. 

Protecting and restoring the natural beauty of the Argolic and Saronic Gulf.
Previously known as Argolic Environment Foundation.

 Visit the website here: https://www.ourocean2024.gov.gr/