Project duration: September 2024
Status: Completed
Grantee: Katheti
Co-funded by: The Rauch Foundation

THE CHALLENGE: 

Large-scale aquaculture operations have been linked to habitat degradation, pollution, and the disruption of delicate marine balances. Despite growing concerns from local communities and environmental organizations, the expansion of fish farms in the Argosaronic continues, often without adequate environmental safeguards. The need for greater public awareness and advocacy on this issue has become critical in ensuring the preservation of natural resources and local livelihoods. 

THE SOLUTION: 

Recognising the urgent need for public awareness, AEF supported the Mother Sea initiative, an environmental and cultural event held in Poros on September 28, 2024. Organized by Katheti and AKTAIA, with key sponsorship from the Rauch Foundation and other entities and the support of local municipalities, the event united conservationists, community members, and cultural figures in a shared mission to protect marine ecosystems.  

The programme began with a screening of The Sanctuary of Poseidon, a documentary exposing the environmental toll of industrial fish farming. This was followed by a moving musical performance curated by renowned lyricist Lina Nikolakopoulou, featuring Thodoris Voutsikakis and Eleni Dimopoulou. The “Mother Sea” concert was more than an artistic event – it was a call to action, urging the audience to safeguard the seas. Throughout the evening, the symbolic image of a single water drop served as a reminder that small, collective actions can lead to meaningful change. 

THE OUTCOMES: 

The project outlines the following milestones:

– Approximately 800 attendees joined the concert, engaging with its powerful message. 

– A targeted digital campaign and media coverage extended the project’s impact beyond the event. 

– Eight municipalities endorsed the initiative, signaling institutional commitment to addressing industrial aquaculture. 

– The project combined environmental education with cultural expression, fostering public dialogue on sustainable aquaculture. 

OUR GRANTEE: 

Katheti is a cultural and educational center promoting cultural events, education and sustainable development in Poros, Troizinia, and Methana. Over the past two years the organisation has strengthened its environmental advocacy, particularly against industrial fish farming in the Argosaronic Gulf.

Through collaborations with local stakeholders, municipalities, and international partners, both organizations work to safeguard the natural and cultural heritage for future generations.  

READ ALSO: 

Protecting Posidonia Seagrass in Poros 

Mapping the Posidonia oceanica Seagrasses of Poros and Methana 

Posidonia Oceanica: Our Valuable Underwater Forests 

Enhancing Sustainable Tourism in Methana through Certified Hiking Trails 

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Visit the Katheti website 

Visit the Aktaia website  

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